Many tamariki in our community require regular visits to hospital for therapy due to ongoing challenging health conditions or because of injury or illness. The dedicated healthcare teams, including physiotherapists, social workers, dietitians and occupational therapists, who provide specialist therapy for these young patients felt their dark and drab therapy room and gym space needed an upgrade to be more welcoming for whānau. Determined to make this happen they approached the Well Foundation to see if we could help them realise their vision for the space.   

In turn Well Foundation approached nib, a valued sponsor, to see if they’d be keen to support the refurbishment.  With nib’s strong commitment to supporting the community and helping kiwis and their families live healthier, happier lives they jumped at the chance to be involved and the therapy gym and kerarū room are now bright, light, child-centric spaces that immediately put whānau at ease. 

The walls have been repainted, there is new flooring, cheerful decals brighten the walls and there is new furniture for parents to rest while their tamariki have their therapy session.   

“Everyone loves the newly refreshed space, all hard work has paid off”, said Sarah Newton, Neurodevelomental Therapist, Waitemata Community Health (West).  

“We’re super grateful to have the support of a company like nib who see value in getting behind these important hospital healthcare projects which benefit everyone in our community”, Ruth Morse, CEO, Well Foundation. 

The Community Child Health team at Waitakere Hospital gather for a blessing and celebration of the newly revamped therapy spaces.

LtoR: Jenny Payne, Well Foundation, Jack with his Mum Jenny and older brother Harry, along with Sarah Newton of the Waitemata Community Child Health Team at Waitākere Hospital.