With its new main street location, regular classes and workshops, there is a lot going on at Age Concern Wairoa.

The charitable organisation has had a presence in Wairoa for more than 30 years, advocating and providing support for elderly people.

Key to the main street move was accessibility. Manager Jan Little said the new location, in the former Wairoa Star building, is ideal as it has increased the Age Concern profile and all services are now operated from one location. “We have seen an increase in awareness and are able to reach more elderly people in our community.”

A typical Age Concern Wairoa week starts with the Green Fingers class, which features raised garden beds donated by QRS. Members enjoy gardening and catching up over a cup of tea. Green Fingers is more than just weeding and includes propagating seeds, enjoying the produce and preserving the end results.

Other classes include an art session with Kathy Wood, Steady As You Go balance workshop and the popular Spin a Yarn knitting on Tuesday afternoons. Wednesday mornings are dedicated to Craft and Connect, covering a range of different crafts. Plus, there is the crowd favourite of movies and fish and chips every third Wednesday of the month.

Jan, who has been manager since last August, said the closure of Glengarry has had a profound impact on our elderly population. “It is really tough for whānau to move their loved one into a home that is out of town as the distance to visit reduces the time they are able to spend with them. Having no respite care here increases the burden on caregivers and whānau, causing stress and other issues. Age Concern is here to offer support and connect people with the services available in Wairoa.”

In addition to the weekly classes, regular workshops are also held. A Staying Safe refresher course for older drivers was held in April, a mobility scooter workshop is coming up on May 20, and a Personal Safety and Empowerment workshop is scheduled for June 19. The classes and workshops are all free, and pickups and drop-offs using the St. John Health Shuttle can be arranged, subject to availability.

Age Concern services include elder abuse and neglect social worker Tricia Anson, with the service providing an open-door policy. Other staff include Community Support Worker Cath Cook and receptionist Tracey Couper.

Jan says their aim is to create a hub where people know they can access the services they need. “Wairoa does a great job of looking after our elderly, and we work in partnership with other services and agencies to ensure wrap-around support is provided.

“For us, it’s all about the people and helping to ensure our elderly are happy, looked after, and have a place to go and enjoy social gatherings. We love working with our clients, and it is a privilege to provide services to our elderly in Wairoa. We welcome people to call in, have a chat and see what’s going on.”

Age Concern
176 Marine Parade
Open Monday-Thursday, 9am-3.30pm
Phone 06 838 3388

28 April 2025

Back to COVID-19