The benefit of attending group support meetings has been shown to empower the family which in turn can create a shift in the addicted family member so please try to get along to one of these - the opposite of addiction is connection.
Zoom Meeting - 7pm
Thursday, 15 October 2026
FREEDOM PHILOSOPHY
Freedom Philosophy is a not-for-profit organisation of volunteers who deliver practical philosophy courses with life skills to several hundred incarcerated people throughout New Zealand prisons.
Perhaps surprisingly, the response of students to these philosophy courses in prisons is overwhelmingly enthusiastic. There is a continual demand for more.
Why? What is it that makes these courses so popular - with both the students who participate, and with the volunteers who help deliver them?
We welcome the opportunity to share with Brave Hearts a little of what the Freedom Philosophy Society does and why we do it."
AUCKLAND NORTH SHORE
Saturday, 3 October 2026 11am
Pickles Cafe, 1 Antares Place
Welcome back, Amanda and Maggie are looking forward to catching up, sharing a cuppa and a chat. All welcome, please arrive 15 mins earlier if you would like to order food/drinks.
HAMILTON/ KIRIKIRIROA
Tuesday, 6 October 2026 7pm
AOD Trust 28 Manning Street
Pat and Brit will welcome you tonight,
Our Hamilton whānau support meeting offers a gentle, welcoming space to connect with others walking similar paths. It’s a place to share openly, feel supported, and find strength in community. Everyone is invited to come along and be part of the kōrero.
Please arrive early if you want to make tea or coffee so we can start promptly at 7pm.
WELLINGTON
Monday, 5 October 2026 6pm
NEW VENUE - Johnsonville Community Centre, 3 Frankmoore Ave
We are joined by Maria Millan from Wellington City Mission, Maria will explore how addiction affects the wellbeing, relationships and safety of families and whānau. She will share insights from Wellington City Mission’s work, including practical approaches to maintaining connection, setting boundaries and finding support. Alison and Jane will be your facilitators. Please be seated to start at 6.15pm.
Shelly and Alison will be your facilitators.
Please be seated to start at 6.15pm.
TAURANGA
Monday, 12 October 2026 7pm
Hanmer Clinic, 1235 Cameron Road
Tauranga Living Without Violence is joining us tonight, Laura McCabe will be talking about the work they do in the community. Ros, Janet and Alan will facilitate this meeting. Join us for supportive kōrero, shared strength, and a sense of community that helps lighten the load. Everyone is welcome to come along.
CHRISTCHURCH
Wednesday, 14 October 2026 7pm
49 Carlyle Street, Sydenham
Go through the main gate or the small gate to the left and press the right-most buzzer of the two***
Kim Boyce from Prisoner Aid and Rehabilitation Society (PARS) is joining us to talk about the mahi they do in the community. Their services aim to assist offenders and their whānau address their reintegrative needs.
Our Christchurch whānau support meeting offers a calm, welcoming space to connect with others who understand the journey. Join Lesley and Karen, come along for kōrero, support, and a sense of community that helps lighten the load. Everyone is welcome.
MOUNT MAUNGANUI
Wednesday, 28 October 2026 7pm
The Mount Club, Kawaka street: Mount Maunganui
Our whānau support group allows you to connect with others who really understand your journey, our facilitators Ros and Shelley will welcome you to the space which is open for sharing and connecting. Come and have a cuppa and practice some self-care.
AUCKLAND -MANUKAU
Thursday, 29 October 2026 6pm -
7 Ronwood Avenue Manukau CADS
Group meeting tonight alongside James and Gayle, our experienced facilitators. Come along and share your stories, get support and find connection.
Rotorua
Cancelled for now
In-person support meetings offer a powerful space for healing, connection, and shared strength.
Here’s why they matter:
Real Connection
Being face-to-face helps build trust and genuine relationships.
You feel seen, heard, and understood in ways that go beyond words.
Shared Wisdom
Everyone brings their own experiences—listening and sharing helps us learn from each other.
You might hear something that shifts your perspective or gives you hope.
Safe Space to Be Yourself
No judgment, just support.
You can speak freely, cry, laugh, or just sit quietly—whatever you need.
Encouragement and Accountability
Regular meetings help you stay grounded and remind you that you’re not alone.
Others can gently encourage you when things feel tough.
Whether you’re supporting a loved one, or just needing a place to breathe—in-person support meetings remind us that healing happens in relationship. You don’t have to do it alone.
You can always book a Toolkit session: We will talk you through a plan that best supports your whānau situation. Please get in contact to book a time or just to have a chat with someone who knows what it’s like.
Our Services Brave Hearts Family addiction support
FREE PHONE: 0508 272 834
EMAIL: support@bravehearts.nz
LiFT Hub, 52 Symonds Street, Grafton, 1010, Auckland


