About The Kōwhai Programme

The Kōwhai Programme was developed by the Otago Community Hospice after research demonstrated that many people who are caring for a loved one with a life limiting illness, often have little information and no medical knowledge of how to carry out the multiple tasks they need to perform to keep their family member safe, comfortable and with a decent quality of life.

The Kōwhai Programme provides information and support to whānau and carers of Hospice patients. 

The programme gives carers the opportunity to be in a room with the experts; ask the questions that keep people awake at night, and be able to leave a little better equipped for the challenging tasks ahead. It also provides a valuable opportunity to connect with others who are sharing similar experiences. Read about one couple's experience with the Kōwhai Programme here.

On our resources page you will find useful information and links that many people who have used this programme have found helpful. The resources are broken down into four parts: family health, psychological health, physical health and spiritual health. Please take the time to look at the information provided and see what may be helpful to your situation.

For Dunedin, North Otago and South Otago queries contact Kowhai Programme Coordinator Denise van Aalst ph: (03) 473 6005 or 0800 473 6005 or email: denise.vanaalst@otagohospice.co.nz 

For Central Otago queries contact our Central Otago Kōwhai Facilitator Alice Romano ph: 0800 473 6005 or email: alice.romano@otagohospice.co.nz