The death of a baby is one of the most heartbreaking experiences a family can go through. Hospital chaplains are there to walk alongside parents and whānau during these deeply difficult moments, to offer a compassionate presence when words alone aren't enough. Baby Loss Awareness Week Every year from 9-15th October, people from across Aotearoa and the world come together to recognise Baby Loss Awareness Week (BLAW). It is a time to remember the babies who died during pregnanc

Our Waitākere Hospital chaplains, Sione Tu’ungafasi and Louise Menzies, recently joined healthcare leaders, community representatives, and special guests in celebrating the official opening of Manaaki Hōhonu, a significant new facility at Waitākere Hospital. | One such representative was Minister Carmel Sepuloni, who thanked Sione for the care he gave to her father during his recent time in hospital. The open

01 October 2026 About the International Day of Older Persons First established in 1990 by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs, the International Day of Older Persons (UNIDOP) aims to recognise and explore the unique experiences of our older populations. This year’s theme, “The Age of Longevity: Rethinking Systems for Longer Lives”, looks to critically evaluate the global systems and infrastructure currently in place for our aged populations to help fi

29 January 2026 In the lead-up to Christmas, the sound of carols echoed through hospital corridors across Aotearoa, bringing moments of joy, comfort, and connection to patients, whānau, and staff. Organised by hospital chaplaincy teams and volunteers, these visits offered a reminder of the hope and compassion at the heart of the Christmas season. Christmas on the Wards At Whangarei Hospital, a dedicated group of volunteers led carol singing across multiple wards throughout De

19 June 2026 | This National Volunteer Week, we are proud to celebrate the more than 200 Volunteer Chaplaincy Assistants (VCAs) serving across Aotearoa. These dedicated volunteers play a vital role in our hospitals. They work hard supporting patients and whānau with compassion and care during the moments that matter most. Whether sitting quietly with someone who needs a listening ear, offering encouragement during uncertainty, or simply being present, VC

7 August 2025 Volunteer Chaplaincy Assistant Commissioning Service A special pōwhiri and commissioning service was held on 10 July at the Chapel of St Luke, Whangārei Hospital. The service was led by Rev. Amiria Te Whiu, on behalf of Hospital Chaplaincy Aotearoa, with support from Whangārei Hospital Chaplains Fatima Lemisio and Adrian Whale, Camron Muriwai (Takawaenga), and Fiona Greig (Team Leader, Customer Service). ​ | July marked a significant milestone for spiritual car

25 April 2025 | Honouring the legacy of military nurses, Hawke's Bay Hospital commemorated 110 years of the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps (RNZNC). Anzac Day Commemoration Service The ceremony paid tribute to the unwavering compassion and sacrifice of military nurses, both past and present, whose connection to the hospital runs long and deep. ​ Held outside the hospital’s chapel, the event united staff, patients, and community members in solemn remembrance. Together