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

Your Association

The PWSA(NZ) was established in 1989 as a parent support network, originally under IHC. We have served as an incorporated society with a governing board since 1991 and have charitable status. With a range of membership options available, our membership continues to grow, comprising parents, carers, service personnel and professionals. The PWSA does not have a national office but operates nationally, currently employing 3 part-time staff. We receive funding from our Ministry of Health contract for disability support services, the NZ Lottery Grants Board and various charitable trusts. Donations are important in assisting us to continue our work and are gratefully received. Registered Charity Number: CC46009.

Mission Statement

  • To enhance the lives of New Zealanders with Prader-Willi syndrome and their families by providing advocacy, education and support.
  • To collaborate and affiliate ourselves with other organisations with similar objectives both in New Zealand and overseas.
  • To encourage research and exchange of ideas, projects and experiences in areas pertinent to the problems of this syndrome.

Click here to read our latest Annual Report.

Our Staff

Jo Davies, Operations Manager

Jo has an adult son with PWS and lives on the Kapiti Coast, near Wellington. She has previously worked as primary school teacher.
Email: jo.davies@pws.org.nz

Cindy Adams-Vining, Training Manager

Cindy has an adult daughter with PWS and lives in Picton. She has lots of experience of working in the carer support and residential care sectors.
Email: cindy@pws.org.nz

Our Board

Our Regional Family Support

Chairperson:

Kahu Simmonds

Treasurer:

Rachel McLellan

Board Members:

Helen Sankey (Secretary)
Cindy Adams-Vining
Hayley Arnott
Jeanette Mabin
Julie-Anne Quinney
James Robinson (ALPWS)
Grant Rogers

Regional Family Support Coordinators will keep in touch with you about local events. You may also wish to contact them to ask about local services. We have coordinators in the following areas:

Northern:

Jo Te-Kapaiwaho (Auckland)
jot.alexp@gmail.com

Central:

Charlotte Roos (Wellington)
familyroosnz@gmail.com

Southern:

Kahu Simmonds or Helen Sankey (Christchurch)
kahusimmonds@gmail.com or teamsankey@xtra.co.nz

Our Sponsors