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Life’s challenges no match for an independent spirit

Life has thrown Lydia its fair share of challenges, but that hasn’t stopped her living it the way she wants to. . “That’s really challenging to get your head around. You’re going in for a straightforward surgery and you come out with a new, life-altering health issue to deal

New homes make a difference for whānau with health challenges

Not having somewhere suitable to live is challenging for anyone, but when you are battling health issues, that challenge is compounded. around. “Physically and mentally being homeless is very hard on your wairua (spirit). We know there is a long waiting list and we honestly thought we would never

Debbie takes community mindedness to the next level

As soon as you meet Debbie, her passion for helping others is clear. Over the years, Debbie has volunteered her time and skills to help others in her community – something she has always been inspired to do. “I have always wanted to give back and think that if you can help bring some relief or joy to people you should. It gives me pleasure in my heart to be able to

Home for Christmas – Feona’s early gift

Feona has picked out the perfect spot for her Christmas tree this year. me to come up and have a look and let them know what I thought and I said ‘yes please!’”   The warm, dry and very light home is perfect for her needs, she

Otago woman crafts a life of kindness and caring

From premature babies to people in their final days of life, hundreds of Otago people have benefited from Eleanor’s huge heart – and her passion for knitting and crochet. And that’s just the start of the incredible impact this Mosgiel woman has on those around her. to knitting as a young girl, by a teacher that saw something in her. “I’m dyslexic, and back then they couldn’t be bothered with me at school, they put me down

Kevin’s journey: from living in his car to giving back to his community

When Kevin was living in his car, watching an apartment complex rise across the road, he never imagined he’d one day call it home or become the go-to guy for his neighbours. trained as a panel beater and worked in the trade for decades. “As a panel beater you’re up and down all the time, and I ended up with a bad knee. Eventually I

Crafty savings tips mixed in with craft-making

When Palema and other members of Mo’ui Feinga Kihe Lelei get together for an evening of weaving and craftmaking, they’re also crafting a better future for themselves. four. “When my Dad was staying with me, he said: ‘Palema you can help people. Share what you know’. He told me to reach out to others and to strive for the

Kindness and kebabs: Bangash feeds those in need

Zuhaib Abbas Bangash arrived in New Zealand from Pakistan in 2013 with little more than a handful of clothes and a dream to create a safer life for his children. , everything is good… now I should continue to help people in need,” Bangash says. “Thank you Kāinga Ora for supporting me in a needy time. That little support took me to the sky and now I am able to support people in need.”

Josh’s journey to supporting others

When Josh was going through one of the most difficult moments of his life, rather than focusing solely on his own journey, his thoughts turned to how he could help others in the same situation. qualification for support workers. “People look at me because I’m crazy – I have three jobs. But I do it because I love it and every day I’m lucky to be able to do it

Thriving at Te Mātāwai – Jane’s first year

One year on and Jane who was the first tenant to move into Te Mātāwai is thriving and learning new skills in this unique development. Mātāwai is on level 2. It’s brand new and so nice and warm. From my unit I also have a view over the outdoor areas which means a lot to me.” “As Te Mātāwai is in a

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