After hours please call:  Alcohol and Drug Helpline: 24/7 Support - 0800 787 797      OR      NZ Police on 111 if there is an emergency.

[email protected]

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 Meetings - Live with Tipene Pickett

7pm, Thursday 20 November 2025

Ko wai au | About Me

I’ve worked in alcohol and drug support since 1998, across government, community, and kaupapa Māori spaces. I’m a registered addiction practitioner and accredited supervisor with DAPAANZ, and I train others in Motivational Interviewing (MI)—a respectful, empowering way of working with people—across Health NZ and NGOs.

I also support counsellors through NZAC as a Puawānanga Kaitiaki, helping them grow their cultural awareness and confidence in working with Māori.

My practice is deeply shaped by mātauranga Māori—our stories, language, and ways of knowing. As a descendant of Ngāti Kahungunu, I draw on pūrākau (narratives of origin), pōwhiri processes, and Māori models like Te Whare Tapa Whā to uplift both Māori and non-Māori. I believe healing happens through connection, and I’m passionate about weaving together the strengths of MI and mātauranga Māori to support real, lasting change.

AUCKLAND NORTH SHORE

11am, Saturday 1 November 2025 

Pickles Cafe, 1 Antares Place 

Pop in for a coffee and a chat with Amanda and Maggie.

Meeting up for group support helps remind us we’re not alone. It’s a safe space to share, listen, and learn from others who truly understand. Whether you're struggling or just need to talk, being part of a group builds connection, strength, and hope—because healing happens together.

HAMILTON/ KIRIKIRIROA

7pm, Tuesday 4 November 2025

AOD Trust 28 Manning Street

Annah Mason Te Rūnanga o Kirikiriroa is joining us as guest speaker. At Te Rūnanga o Kirikiriroa we walk alongside our people, providing support where it’s needed most - housing, mental health, addictions, youth and adult services, and wrap-around care. Guided by our six pou and our commitment to Whānau First, Tikanga Based practices, and a Wellbeing Approach.

Te Rūnanga o Kirikiriroa

ROTORUA

7pm, Thursday 13 November 2025

Rotorua Library, Haupapa St Entrance

Feeling overwhelmed or alone in your journey with a loved one’s addiction?

You’re not alone.

Join us tonight for a whānau support meeting —for real talk, shared strength, and a safe space to connect. These gatherings are about hope, healing, and community.

Come as you are. All welcome Brigitte and Rebecca will be your facilitators.

Because the opposite of addiction is connection.


TAURANGA

7pm, Monday 10 November 2025

Hanmer Clinic, 1235 Cameron Road

Tonight, we have Rachel Cade who brings 33 years of experience. Rachel is currently a Registered Nurse Addictions & Co-Existing disorders - Tauranga District Court working closely with Probations.

her experience includes:
* Case manager (high & complex needs) adult mental health services
* Registered nurse crisis team mental health and addiction services
* Consultation liaison psychiatry nurse
* Acute inpatient mental health 

Janet, Allan and Ros are our Tauranga facilitators and will warmly welcome you tonight.

CHRISTCHURCH

7pm, Wednesday 12 November 2025

**CCS has moved! New meeting premises is 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 whānau support meeting tonight is a group share and check in. It has been a busy year so far, we all need to take some time out to breathe. Our wonderful facilitators will be there to hold space. 

Looking forward to connecting with you all.

MOUNT MAUNGANUI

7pm, Wednesday 26 November 2025

1/52 Girven Road, Mount Maunganui

Ros and Shelly our experienced facilitators will host this group family support meeting. This friendly group is held at our offices, make a cuppa and join this safe space. All are welcome

MANUKAU

6pm, Thursday 27 November 2025

CADS 7 Ronwood Ave, Manukau

Gayle and James, our experienced facilitators will be facilitating this whānau support group. Join for connection, sharing, education and support. 

Speaker to be confirmed.

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.