Seasons Greetings from Te Kahu Pairuri o Aotearoa – Hospice New Zealand.

As we come to the end of another big year, I want to acknowledge the collective strength and heart of the hospice movement across Aotearoa New Zealand. Despite a health system still in reform, hospices have once again shown resilience, compassion, and a deep commitment to the people and whānau we serve.

Over the past few months, we’ve made meaningful progress with Health New Zealand on the Hospice Service and Funding Review. This is the first time, any health agency has shown commitment to a comprehensive, data-informed look at hospice services, to understand what services are delivered, to whom, and at what cost – from both Crown and charitable funding.

It’s a milestone moment.  The review is set to be transparent, collaborative, and evidence-based and it represents a genuine opportunity to secure a sustainable future for specialist community palliative care. We’re ready to work alongside Health New Zealand to co-design a new funding model once the findings are released.

In early November, we met with Minister Brown to update him on the state of the sector and ask for his commitment to the Review outcomes. We’ve also had a positive indication from both Labour’s Health spokesperson, Dr Ayesha Verrall and NZ First MP Jenny Marcroft, that palliative care will be included in their party’s health policy for the coming election. This recognition across the political spectrum is encouraging.  We’ll continue engaging with all parties to ensure accessible and sustainable palliative care is firmly on their agendas as they shape their election priorities.

Please take a moment to read our latest Annual Review, for a deeper look at our work this year, including key projects, impact insights, and our financial performance.

My work with the Asia Pacific Hospice Palliative Care Network has continued, with a very successful 2025 conference in Malaysia, new strategic plan developed, and training programmes running across 8 countries. These relationships strengthen our collective voice and help ensure Aotearoa remains connected to global learning and leadership in palliative care.

At our AGM in Wellington last month, we farewelled Board member Ria Earp, who has chaired our Māori Leadership Group, Te Rōpū Take Māori since its inception. Ria’s contribution has been significant, and we thank her for her leadership and guidance.

We also welcomed Vanessa Eldridge and Clare Randall to the Board. Their experience and insight will be invaluable as we head into the year ahead. You can read more about our Board here.

I am incredibly grateful for the support of every Hospice across the country and their Boards, and for the unwavering dedication of hospice staff and volunteers everywhere. Their work ensures people receive care that upholds their dignity and is delivered with utmost compassion, and this sits at the centre of everything we do.

Thank you for your continued support.  I wish you and your loved ones a safe and peaceful holiday season.

Meri Kerihimete
Kia kaha, kia maio, kia manawanui

Wayne Naylor 

Chief Executive, Hospice New Zealand

While you are in store, you can also take part in the Tree of Remembrance. Make a donation at the counter, collect a card and write a message for someone you are remembering this Christmas, then hang it on the tree.  If you cannot make it to a store, you can still support Hospice by purchasing your bauble online at the link below.  Find out more: https://www.hospice.org.nz/farmers2025

2025 Harcourts Grants Programme

Hospices across Aotearoa will be able to provide improved comfort and care thanks to more than $31,000 in funding from the Harcourts Foundation. Eleven hospices recently received funding for essential equipment such as pressure-relieving mattresses, syringe drivers, ceiling hoists and lightweight wheelchairs. These items help reduce discomfort, support safe care and make it easier for people to remain at home when possible.

This year’s grants will directly benefit hospices in Hastings, Whakatāne, Marlborough, Canterbury, Kerikeri, Waikato, Auckland, Wellington, Whangārei, Otago and Rotorua, ensuring they can continue delivering high-quality, compassionate care.

 News, Podcasts and Websites Worth Sharing

• NZ knew how to care for the dying then forgot: The Post

• Too Young is a New Zealand website sharing honest, personal stories from adults who lost a parent in childhood. These accounts highlight the lasting impact of early bereavement and the strength found in navigating grief. It’s a powerful resource for those supporting children and whānau facing loss.

• The Last Breath A Podcast About Death And Dying Hospice Waikato

• Angela’s Story: Walking the Final Path together Hospice West Auckland

• Go with Grace: Gentle guidance, resources and peace of mind for those getting their affairs in order

• Dying Reviews in Australia: When compassion depends on luck  Australian Ageing Agenda

• Compassionate Resources and Training for Workplaces