Good on you for reaching out.

If it is an emergency, or you, or someone you know, is at risk, call 111.

Taranaki Retreat is not a ‘crisis service’ – we are a non-clinical, whānau-based time-out space, for our community to have somewhere to turn for recovery after trauma, or in finding hope and their next steps.

​Please, never hesitate to share your situation – either with us or with one of these helping services:

Where to get help:

1737, Need to talk? Free call or text 1737 any time for support from a trained counsellor
Lifeline – 0800 543 354 or (09) 5222 999 within Auckland, ​or Text ‘Help’ to 4357
Samaritans – 0800 726 666
Suicide Crisis Helpline – 0508 828 865
Anxiety New Zealand – 0800 269 4389

For Rangatahi (young people):
Youthline – 0800 376 633, free text 234, email [email protected] or online chat
What’s Up – 0800 942 8787 (for 5–18 year olds). Phone counselling is available Monday to Friday, midday–11pm and weekends, 3pm–11pm. Online chat is available 7pm–10pm daily.
Kidsline – 0800 54 37 54  for young people up to 18 years of age. Open 24/7.
thelowdown.co.nz – email [email protected], or free text 5626

For Anyone Experiencing or in Danger of Abuse
Shine: 0508 744 633

For Anyone Who Identifies as LGBTQIA+
Outline: 0800 688 5463, Open 10am – 9pm weekdays, 6pm – 9pm weekends

Why not come down to Waimanako?

We're located at 33 Devon Street West in the New Plymouth CBD (down the hallway under the blue awning and opposite Huatoki Plaza). We offer Listening Ears - a drop-in peer-support service, where you can talk through anything and everything. Our opening hours are:

Monday: 8:00am-3:00pm
Tuesday-Friday: 8:00am-7:30pm
Saturday: 10:00am-2:00pm
Sunday and Public Holidays: On Pause

Why not come down to our Koha Cafe?

We're located at 33 Devon Street West in the New Plymouth CBD (down the end of hallway under the blue awning and opposite Huatoki Plaza).

The Koha Cafe is a safe, sober socialising space for our community. We offer good kai and drinks for koha - you pay what you feel - and a friendly, welcoming envrionment.

We also offer Listening Ears - a drop-in peer-support service, where you can talk through anything and everything. Our opening hours are:

Monday: 8:00am-3:00pm
Tuesday-Friday: 8:00am-7:30pm
Saturday: 10:00am-2:00pm
Sunday and Public Holidays: On Pause

Why not volunteer with us?

We're always looking for new volunteers! Volunteering is a great way to build confidence, make friends, and give back to your community.

There are so many ways you can help us out, including:

Consider contacting one of the following helplines:

Free call or text 1737 any time for support from a trained counsellor

Youthline – 0800 376 633, free text 234, email [email protected] or online chat

For Anyone Experiencing or in Danger of Abuse: Shine – 0508 744 633

For Anyone Who Identifies as LGBTQIA+: Outline – 0800 688 5463, Open 10am to 9pm weekdays, 6pm – 9pm weekends

Let's start the conversation!

Fill out our contact form, and we'll get back to you as soon as we can.

Why not try Outreach Support – ‘On the Fringes’?

This is our support programme for people who perhaps tend not to find a place within conventional support models. We all deserve a place to be heard. Everyone.

Flexibility, straight-talking and regular check-ins are the keys to ensure a solid, tailored connection is built. There is an unwritten kinship between those who have walked the paths of ‘not fitting in’.

We offer outreach visits on a regular basis, usually fortnightly, which are an opportunity to talk, laugh, and share the difficulties that you have experienced in the past, the challenges facing you that particular day, and strategies to help navigate the obstacles of tomorrow. This is a no-judgment, warts-and-all time where you can feel comfortable opening up to someone who is no stranger to the pitfalls, temptations, and complications in life.

Interested? Fill out our contact form, and we'll get back to you as soon as we can.

We might be able to help you find support in your area.

Let's start the conversation! Fill out our contact form, and we'll get back to you as soon as we can.

Let's talk things through - we might be able to help you out, or refer you to a service that offers the right supports.

Let's start the conversation! Fill out our contact form, and we'll get back to you as soon as we can.

Note that we are not a crisis service, and we cannot help with housing, food parcels, or finance management.

Let's talk things through - we might be able to help, or refer you to a service that offers the right supports.

Let's start the conversation! Fill out our contact form, and we'll get back to you as soon as we can.

Arohamai - we're sorry.

Sadly, there’s no way our resources can stretch overseas. Additionally, our role is to work collectively, alongside other support services. Of course, there’s no way that we can do that from such a distance. We hope that somewhere in your country, there will be a community of some kind who are there for you. Don’t give up searching.

We offer a Buddied Journalling service!

This is a safe space to share what's on your mind. Your Journal Buddy will offer support and encouragement on your journey. Head here to learn more and get started.

We offer time out in the form of free stays at Taranaki Retreat.

To start the conversation, and see whether this would be a fit for you, get in touch with us here.

Our friends at Yellow Brick Road offer support for whānau of someone with a mental health condition.

Head to their website to learn more!

Why not try our Goal-Setting Workshop?

Here's what you can expect:

'We make so many promises to ourselves but most times, our brain doesn’t believe that we are capable of achieving our goals. We end up self-sabotaging and then feeling guilty for not achieving these goals. In turn we lose confidence in our ability to make and stick to future goals. In this session Hamada will coach participants on how to set clear goals and get their brain to work for them, not against them.'

The workshop runs on the second Tuesday of every month from 12pm-1pm at Waimanako (33 Devon Street West, New Plymouth). Check out our workshops page for more information. Alternatively, keep an eye on our Facebook events or Instagram story to see when it's next running!

Consider trying No Your Limits - A Workshop on Boundaries

Here's what you can expect:

'Learn how to say 'no' without feeling guilty. Identify which area of your life you need to start setting up boundaries. Use the wheel of limits method that helps you identify where you are the best in setting up boundaries and apply this in the areas where you struggle.'

The workshop runs on the first Wednesday of every month from 12-1:30pm at Waimanako (33 Devon Street West, New Plymouth). Check out our workshops page for more information. Alternatively, keep an eye on our Facebook events or Instagram story to see when it's next running!

Consider trying Manawa Whakaora - Healing breath

Here's what you can expect:

'Practices are inspired by scientifically endorsed methods including but not exclusive to The Wim Hof Method and Joe Dispenza Meditations. This well-being class is designed to strengthen mind and body by using methods that alkalize the body, boost the immune system, reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. Individuals will enter a space where they will undergo a short induction and Q&A session and afterwards take part in a guided series of meditational breathwork exercises. Session lasts an hour, with time afterwards for questions and discussion if wanted.

Note: registering for this event is crucial, so that enough resources can be provided for everyone. Please also bring a blanket with you!'

The workshop runs every Friday from 6:00-7:30pm at Waimanako (33 Devon Street West, New Plymouth). Check out our workshops page for more information.

Consider trying Find Your Calm

Here's what you can expect:

'A workshop for anyone keen for a piece of calm in their day.
Join for a short, simple guided meditation and an informal chat on:
- How to find a sense of calm when life is busy
- How to manage worry or overthinking'

The workshop runs every other Thursday from 2:00-2:30pm at Waimanako (33 Devon Street West, New Plymouth). Check out our workshops page for more information. Alternatively, keep an eye on our Facebook events or Instagram story to see when it's next running!

Consider trying Anxiously Awesome

Here's what you can expect:

'In this workshop, Ange facilitates a compassionate and curious approach to anxiety. Connect with others who are also experiencing life affected by an awesomely anxious mind and body. Come once, or come regularly to get more familiar with ways to move towards what you really want, while anxiety comes along for the ride!'

The workshop runs on the first Tuesday of every month from 11am-12pm at Waimanako (33 Devon Street West, New Plymouth). Check out our workshops page for more information. Alternatively, keep an eye on our Facebook events or Instagram story to see when it's next running!

Consider trying Kindfulness

Here's what you can expect:

'Get ready to dive into Kindfulness - a 4 week journey of self-discovery during which you'll explore the hidden language of your body's autonomic nervous system. From fight & flight to withdraw, fold & collapse, you'll uncover how your body communicates its needs. You’ll learn ways to create the conditions for finding your way back to a state of inner peace - and connection to everything you hold dear.

The workshop runs for four weeks at a time, on Mondays from 11am-12pm at Waimanako (33 Devon Street West, New Plymouth). Check out our workshops page for more information. Alternatively, keep an eye on our Facebook events or Instagram story to see when it's next running!

Consider trying our Problem-Solving Through Communication workshop

Here's what you can expect:

'It is almost always easy to communicate when things are going our way. Life, however, doesn’t always go our way. We occasionally (or often) need to solve some problems. There are some traps we often fall into when we communicate which make some of these problems even bigger. During this workshop you will learn how to avoid such traps. Hamada Eleleimy will teach you the skills necessary for problem solving through communication.'

The workshop runs on the third Tuesday of every month, from 12-1pm at Waimanako (33 Devon Street West, New Plymouth). Check out our workshops page for more information. Alternatively, keep an eye on our Facebook events or Instagram story to see when it's next running!

Consider trying Whānau of The Anxiously Awesome

Here's what you can expect from this support group:

'This group provides a space to connect with others who are also supporting whānau with anxiety. Grab a kai from our Koha Cafe and learn more about anxiety, discuss what’s helpful in supporting others and find out what other supports are available in our community. Each week we’ll focus on one aspect of anxiety support along with plenty of space for open discussion. This lunchtime group is facilitated by our Counsellors and Coaches.'

The group runs on the third Tuesday of every month, from 12:30-1:30pm at Waimanako (33 Devon Street West, New Plymouth). Check out our workshops page for more information. Alternatively, keep an eye on our Facebook events or Instagram story to see when it's next running!

Consider trying our Watercolour Art workshop

Here's what you can expect:

'Join us for a fun workshop to learn about how to use watercolours. Find out useful tips and techniques from our master artist, Glen; he will show you how to create beautiful cards or postcards as a kickstart to to discovering what else you can make with a little know-how and support.

There's no pressure or expectation - you don't have to be 'arty' - just give it a shot and see what you can create with a bit of guidance. Creating something has the power to improve how you feel about yourself...

You can come along once to this friendly group, or come along regularly - whatever works for you.'

The group runs on Thursdays from 11am-12:30pm at Waimanako (33 Devon Street West, New Plymouth). Check out our workshops page for more information. 

Consider trying Unleash

Here's what you can expect from this workshop:

'A fun, four week course which lets you unleash your creative side! Discover your own hidden talents as you learn and put to use new crafting skills - all with natural or recycled products.'

The workshop runs for four weeks at a time, on Wednesdays from 10-11:30am at Waimanako (33 Devon Street West, New Plymouth). Check out our workshops page for more information. Alternatively, keep an eye on our Facebook events or Instagram story to see when it's next running!

Consider trying Soulfood

Consider joining Speed Freaks

We are an open community group who meets every Thursday evening (rain or shine) 5.30pm Huatoki Plaza on Devon Street.

We welcome everyone of all levels and there is no cost to attend. Gain a free T shirt after three attendances, access to our private Facebook event, tickets to subsidized local running events and even sponsored footwear if needed.

Lead coach Amy is proud to support you, alongside the other talented coaches. I am passionate about the role fitness plays in mental health support and through our own journey walk alongside you with no judgement.

Meet at Huatoki Plaza at 5.30pm Thursdays, rain or shine. Walk or run and chat afterwards, if you like.'

Consider coming along to an AA Meeting

'A friendly, caring and trusting space, where you can meet with others on a similar journey, and be part of mutual support in stopping drinking and staying that way:)'

AA Meetings run from 5-7pm on Wednesdays at Waimanako (33 Devon Street West, New Plymouth).

Consider coming along to our Autistic Meetup group

'A space to connect for autistic teens and adults (and those who suspect they might be) to continue the conversation. This meetup provides a supportive environment for connecting over shared experiences.'

Autistic Meetups run on the fourth Wednesday of each month, from 12-1pm at Waimanako (33 Devon Street West, New Plymouth). Check out our workshops page for more information. Alternatively, keep an eye on our Facebook events or Instagram story to see when it's next running!

Consider giving Shorinji Kempo a go

Classes run from 6:30-8:30pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays at Waimanako (33 Devon Street West, New Plymouth). Contact us for more information.

Why not come along to Tune Up Tuesday?

Every Tuesday evening, from 6:00-7:30pm, we have live music from a local performer in our Koha Cafe (located at Waimanako - 33 Devon Street West, New Plymouth).

It's a low-key, friendly environment, with great vibes; we also offer kai and drinks for koha. The free entertainment is great, too!

Keep an eye on our Facebook events or Instagram story to see who's playing next - and for other upcoming events you might be interested in.

Why not come along to The Creative Hub?

This is a drop-in style group, where you bring your own crafty creation to work on. Share ideas with others around you and enjoy some social time while working on your favourite project :). Held in our Creative Hub just opposite the cafe (at Waimanako, 33 Devon Street West), delivery of food and drink is part of the service!

This group runs on Fridays from 10am-12pm. Check out our workshops page for more information.

Consider trying Adventure with Confidence

Here's what you can expect:

'A support group for rangatahi with anxiety. Members will set themselves ‘adventures’ - goals to confront something that makes them anxious - however big or small, and report back on previous adventures.

The workshop runs every Tuesday from 4-5pm at Waimanako (33 Devon Street West, New Plymouth). Check out our workshops page for more information.

Consider trying Adventure Club

Here's what you can expect:

'A group for those that want to change things up a bit, do life a bit differently...

The workshop runs every Wednesday from 6-7pm at Waimanako (33 Devon Street West, New Plymouth). Check out our workshops page for more information.

Consider trying Resilience Builders

Here's what you can expect:

'Resilience is often called bouncing back. This workshop shares that it can be more than that, it can help us understand what is coming up for us and what we can do about it.

Life happens. We know that and have seen that. Resilience helps us to deal with what comes our way. It's not about putting a big smile on or a mask, it's not about being strong and pushing stuff down, it's about understanding our feelings and emotions and navigating through them.

The more we can have a relationship with our feelings and emotions, the less scary they become and we can start to see the clues that they hold.'

The workshop takes place at Waimanako (33 Devon Street West, New Plymouth), and runs in a 'pop-up' capacity, with no set time or date. It may be possible, however, to organise upon request - get in touch with us if you're interested!

Alternatively, keep an eye on our workshops page, Facebook events, or Instagram story to see when it's next running!

Consider trying You Are Not Your Thoughts

Here's what you can expect from this workshop:

'A workshop for anyone interested in learning the impact our thoughts have on our every day. Learn how to start identifying the thoughts that are not serving you, that story reel that feels like non-stop sometimes. Once we are able to identify it, we can see how it plays out, and make some changes so we have some kinder, more wholesome thoughts running the show.'

The workshop takes place at Waimanako (33 Devon Street West, New Plymouth), and runs in a 'pop-up' capacity, with no set time or date. It may be possible, however, to organise upon request - get in touch with us if you're interested!

Alternatively, keep an eye on our workshops page, Facebook events, or Instagram story to see when it's next running!

Consider trying Stress Busters

Here's what you can expect from this workshop:

'Reducing stress - feel overwhelmed, can’t get anything done? Does your to-do list seem endless? Leave this workshop with some practical tools on how to reduce stress levels and bring some more balance back into your life.'

The workshop takes place at Waimanako (33 Devon Street West, New Plymouth), and runs in a 'pop-up' capacity, with no set time or date. It may be possible, however, to organise upon request - get in touch with us if you're interested!

Alternatively, keep an eye on our workshops page, Facebook events, or Instagram story to see when it's next running!

Consider trying The Journey Back to Enoughness

Here's what you can expect from this workshop:

'Feeling not enough can have an impact on many areas of our life. Often called imposter syndrome, it’s a feeling where we think everyone else is doing better, is more than us.

The workshop takes place at Waimanako (33 Devon Street West, New Plymouth), and runs in a 'pop-up' capacity, with no set time or date. It may be possible, however, to organise upon request - get in touch with us if you're interested!

Alternatively, keep an eye on our workshops page, Facebook events, or Instagram story to see when it's next running!

Consider trying The Circle of Joy

Here's what you can expect from this workshop:

'Life can be hard. Having some time out, a space to breathe, can help us to renew and recharge.

The workshop takes place at Waimanako (33 Devon Street West, New Plymouth), and runs in a 'pop-up' capacity, with no set time or date. It may be possible, however, to organise upon request - get in touch with us if you're interested!

Alternatively, keep an eye on our workshops page, Facebook events, or Instagram story to see when it's next running!

Consider trying the Mini Soul-Board Workshop

Here's what you can expect:

'Are you feeling the need to realign with yourself, your values, get more clarity on your direction? This may be for you.....

The workshop takes place at Waimanako (33 Devon Street West, New Plymouth), and runs in a 'pop-up' capacity, with no set time or date. It may be possible, however, to organise upon request - get in touch with us if you're interested!

Alternatively, keep an eye on our workshops page, Facebook events, or Instagram story to see when it's next running!

You might benefit from Outreach Support.

Receive tailored support with working towards whatever positive mental health changes you'd like to see in your life. Contact us to learn more, and get the ball rolling.

Why not try visiting Kia Tau - our Recharge Room?

Located within The Confidence Centre at Waimanako (33 Devon Street West, New Plymouth), this room is a low-sensory environment designed to relax and invigorate you.

Kia Tau / The Recharge Room is open from 12-4pm, Monday-Friday, and from 12-3pm on Saturdays. Head here to learn more!

Why not come along to Manga Hapahāpai / The Confidence Centre?

Located at Waimanako (33 Devon Street West, New Plymouth), the Confidence Centre is a drop-in anxiety support space open to anyone and everyone.

We offer on-demand one-on-one support; techniques and coping mechanisms for dealing with anxiety; a craft room; and a low-sensory space designed to relax and invigorate you.

The Confidence Centre is open from 12-4pm, Monday-Friday.

Outside of these hours, we offer one-on-one Listening Ear support through our Koha Cafe (open 8am-3pm Monday, 8am-7:30pm Tuesday-Friday, and 10am-2pm Saturday).

Aroha to you.

We offer a range of bereavement supports. Head here to see what's available.