Bright, child-friendly therapy spaces transform care for young patients.

For many tamariki (children) in our community, regular hospital visits for therapy are a necessary part of life, whether due to ongoing health challenges, injury, or illness. Now, thanks to a collaborative effort between healthcare teams, the Well Foundation, and their valued sponsor nib, these children and their whānau (family) can access therapy in a newly revamped, welcoming environment designed just for them.

Healthcare professionals—including physiotherapists, social workers, dietitians, speech-language therapists, and occupational therapists—recognised that their existing therapy gym and Kererū room needed a transformation. The old spaces, dark and uninspiring, were not ideal for helping young patients feel at ease during therapy. Determined to make a change, the team reached out to the Well Foundation for support in bringing their vision to life.

With nib’s strong commitment to improving community health and well-being, they eagerly stepped in to fund the refurbishment via their sponsorship and support of Well Foundation. Now, the once-drab therapy spaces have been transformed into bright, child-centric environments that put tamariki and their families at ease the moment they step inside.

Freshly painted walls, new flooring, and vibrant decals featuring sea animals now create an uplifting atmosphere, helping children feel more comfortable. Additionally, new furniture has been introduced, providing parents a place to rest while their tamariki engage in therapy sessions.

Jenny Buxton, whose son Jack receives regular therapy at the hospital, shared her appreciation for the newly enhanced space. “As a parent, the new therapy gym feels so much more welcoming and geared towards children. The hospital can be a daunting place, but this space now feels child-friendly. The sea animal decals are a fantastic touch—they help children settle in and feel at home.”

Jenny also highlighted the significance of having an accessible, engaging space for therapy. “I’ve attended numerous ‘Sing and Sign’ sessions and therapy appointments with Jack’s physiotherapist. It’s reassuring to have a space that is both safe and designed to support his physical development. The new gym is a far more inviting and kid-friendly environment.”

The transformation has already made a significant impact. Sarah Newton, Neurodevelopmental Therapist at Waitematā Community Health (West), expressed the excitement of the healthcare teams: “Everyone loves the newly refreshed space—all the hard work has truly paid off.”

Ruth Morse, CEO of the Well Foundation, also emphasized the importance of community partnerships in making projects like this possible. “We’re incredibly grateful to have the support of a company like nib, who recognize the value of investing in healthcare projects that benefit our entire community.”

This refurbishment is more than just a makeover—it’s a commitment to ensuring young patients feel safe, comfortable, and supported during their therapy sessions.

The Community Child Health team at Waitākere 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.