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, 20 August 2026
Lucille Martin - Guest speaker
Lucille Martin from Poutama, Ember Services is our guest speaker tonight. Lucille will talk about where substance use and mental health intersect and give her observations on the importance of treating a person’s substance use and mental health challenges separately. She will also share successful strategies for supporting whaiora to reintegrate with their families.
AUCKLAND NORTH SHORE
Saturday, 1 August 2026 11am
Pickles Cafe, 1 Antares Place
Please note this meeting is closed this month due to a survey taking place. We apologise for the inconvenience and will see you all 5 September.
HAMILTON/ KIRIKIRIROA
Tuesday, 04 August 2026 7pm
AOD Trust 28 Manning Street
Pat and Brit will welcome you tonight, join us as we hear from Sylvie Haisman. Sylvie has worked as the CADS Hamilton Recovery Support Worker since 2023, walking alongside whaiora and their whānau, on their recovery journeys
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, 3 August 2026 6pm
NEW VENUE - Johnsonville Community Centre, 3 Frankmoore Ave
Ashleigh Bunning from High Alert is our guest speaker tonight and will be speaking about reducing acute drug harm in our communities by providing harm reduction advice and early warning notifications about new or dangerous substances. Please be seated to start at 6.15pm.
Join us in our new venue which is hopefully more central. We look forward to a meeting of sharing, connecting and creating our new community. Shelly, Alison and Jane will be your facilitators.
TAURANGA
Monday, 10 August 2026 7pm
Hanmer Clinic, 1235 Cameron Road
Our guest speaker is Nigel Waters. Nigel has served as a police officer, National Retail Manager for the Salvation Army in New Zealand, Chair of Tauranga Living Without Violence, and has developed considerable expertise in de-escalation. He has supported close whānau members through meth and alcohol use, giving him both personal and practical insight into the challenges families face.
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, 12 August 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***
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, 26 August 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, 27 August 2026 6pm
7 Ronwood Avenue Manukau CADS
Group meeting tonight with our caring facilitators Gayle and James. Come along and share your stories, get support and find connection.
The benefit of attending group meetings empowers the family which in turn can create a shift in the addicted family member.
Rotorua
Cancelled at the moment
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
Unit 1/52 Girven Road, Bayfair, Mount Maunganui


