Welcome to the Prader-Willi Syndrome Association of New Zealand
Freephone PWS Helpline: 0800 4PWS HELP | 0800 4797 4357

What is Prader-Willi Syndrome?

Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) is a rare and complex neurodevelopmental disorder which occurs in around 1 in 16,000 births and affects approximately 200 New Zealanders.

PWS alters functioning of the hypothalamus in the brain causing a wide range of symptoms which include impacts on: cognition, emotional regulation, growth, muscle development, metabolism and appetite – most people with PWS are always hungry. Each individual is affected to varying degrees by each symptom. Learn more ›

NEWS

Tips for Managing Halloween in Prader-Willi Syndrome

October 21, 2022

Halloween is growing in popularity in Aotearoa New Zealand, making it increasingly difficult to avoid for those who choose not to participate. Fortunately, trick or treaters will usually only call on the houses that indicate they are participating by leaving…

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Vagus nerve stimulation for behaviour in PWS

September 30, 2022

SEPT 2022 – A focused campaign by the Foundation for Prader-Willi Research (#VNS4PWS) has been raising funds toward a large-scale trial of VNS which will be conducted across multiple centres in the USA. This trial requires quite significant funding, but…

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Young Families Weekend 2022

September 28, 2022

On the weekend of September 17th and 18th, our Young Families Weekend finally took place after unfortunate Covid-19 postponements – it was fantastic to be able to connect with others again in person. The weekend was attended by several families…

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EVENTS

Virtual Social Evenings for Parents

- last Sunday of the month

These meetings will generally take place on the last SUNDAY of each month at 7.30pm. Each month is for parents with children of a different age range, so there will be a meeting for each parent group every 3 months.…

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Zoom Chat – Social Groups for New Zealanders with PWS

- 2nd Saturday / 1st Tuesday

Our Zoom Chats were monthly facilitated social groups which were a place for a general catch-up and to enjoy playing some games together. They used to take place on the 1st and 2nd Saturdays of each month for different age…

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