Regional Hubs Initiative – Christchurch get-together
As part of our ongoing efforts to strengthen connections within our Prader-Willi syndrome community, our newly established Regional Hubs Subcommittee hopes to hold regional gatherings each year for individuals and families across Aotearoa. These will provide opportunities to:
- connect
- share experiences
- learn from one another, including about regional support services.
Our first regional gathering for 2026 was held in Christchurch. Although a Summer picnic was originally planned, this was changed at the last minute to ten-pin bowling due to wet weather, but this didn’t stop a large number of families joining us. The get-together was enjoyed by 31 people, plus organisers Cindy and Mike.
We are looking for volunteers in other areas who are interested in helping to plan and coordinate local get-togethers and the Association will help with funding and communications. Please get in touch if you are keen.
At a Regional Hubs Hui held last year, there was a suggestion that region-specific WhatsApp groups would be a useful resource for families. The Regional Hubs Subcommittee have sent an invitation to join a regional group to help facilitate arrangements for in-person get-togethers, as well as further developing online connection and discussions. If you haven’t joined a regional group yet and are keen to join, please text the following details to the Regional Hubs Subcommittee WhatsApp group facilitator:
To Hayley – 0274 244 155
Your Name
Group you would like to join:
NORTHERN: Auckland / Northland
MIDLAND: Taranaki / Waikato / Bay of Plenty / Gisborne
CENTRAL: Whanganui / Manawatu / Hawkes Bay / Wellington
UPPER SOUTH: Tasman / Nelson / Marlborough / West Coast
MID SOUTH: Canterbury
LOWER SOUTH: Southland / Otago
You are welcome to join more than one group if you wish.
