News from Nurse Maude

Chief Financial Officer Opportunity at Nurse Maude

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 04:03:02 GMT

Nurse Maude is seeking an exceptional Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to join our Executive Management Team, based in Christchurch.

This is a rare opportunity to bring strategic financial leadership to a values-driven, not-for-profit organisation. Partnering closely with the Chief Executive and Board, the CFO will play a key role in shaping the future of community-based healthcare across Aotearoa Te Waipounamu.

With responsibility spanning both the Nurse Maude Association (Operational activities) and Nurse Maude Foundation (philanthropy), this role operates at meaningful scale - supporting over $110 million in annual cashflow, a $70 million balance sheet, and a dedicated Finance & Assurance team. The CFO will lead financial strategy, funding approaches, investment decisions, and governance frameworks that ensure long-term sustainability and impact.

We are looking for a seasoned financial leader who combines strong commercial acumen with a genuine commitment to purpose. This includes a deep understanding of financial management, experience operating in complex or government-funded environments, and the ability to lead high-performing teams. A strong alignment with Nurse Maude’s mission, values, and commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi is essential.

For a confidential discussion, please contact Andrea Bankier at Sheffield on +64 27 447 8102 or andrea.bankier@sheffield.co.nz .

Applications close 10 May 2026.

Founded in Christchurch in 1896, Nurse Maude has been providing care in homes and communities for over 125 years. Today, our team of more than 1,250 staff and 260 volunteers deliver over one million visits each year, supporting people across the South Island and Wellington region.

International Women’s Day: Honouring 130 Years of Women in Community Healthcare

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 23:44:55 GMT

Honouring 130 Years of Women in Community Healthcare

This International Women’s Day (8 March), Nurse Maude is celebrating the legacy of its founder, Sibylla Maude, and the extraordinary contribution of women in healthcare - past and present.

In 1896, Sibylla Maude made a courageous and visionary decision. At a time when healthcare was largely hospital-based and opportunities for women were limited, she stepped beyond traditional models of care and into the homes of people in Christchurch who were sick and vulnerable. In doing so, she established District Nursing in New Zealand - laying the foundations for modern community healthcare.

Nurse Maude’s employment contract from 1896 is in our archives, it sets out the duties of a district nurse serving the parishes of St Michael and Sydenham. The formal language reflects its era, but the purpose is clear: to provide compassionate nursing care to those in need within the community.

Today, 130 years later, that vision continues.

Nurse Maude now employs 1,276 staff across District Nursing, Specialty Clinics, Homecare, Specialist Palliative Care, Hospice, Care Home, and Retail services. Eighty-seven percent of the organisation’s workforce are women.

Chief Executive Louise Zacest says International Women’s Day is both a celebration and a moment of reflection.

Louise Zacest, Chief Executive of Nurse Maude

“Sibylla Maude’s decision in 1896 was bold and forward-thinking. She recognised that healthcare needed to reach people where they lived. That courage created a legacy that continues to shape community healthcare in New Zealand today.”

“Eighty-seven percent of our workforce are women. Across every part of our organisation, women bring clinical expertise, compassion, leadership, and innovation to the communities we serve. International Women’s Day is an opportunity to acknowledge that impact and to say clearly - your work matters.”

While celebrating progress, Louise notes it is important to recognise that not all women globally experience the same freedoms and opportunities as those in Aotearoa New Zealand.

“We are fortunate to live and work in a country where women can lead, innovate and shape healthcare services. International Women’s Day also reminds us that progress is not equal everywhere, and that equity remains an ongoing commitment.”

From a single district nurse in 1896 to a workforce of more than 1,200 people today, Nurse Maude continues its mission of caring for the community - honouring the legacy of a pioneering woman whose vision changed the course of healthcare in New Zealand.

Nurse Maude's Letter

CHRISTCHURCH .

November 4th 1896.

The Revd. A. W. Averill & Revd. E. A. Scott.

Revd Reverend. & Dear Sirs,

Before taking up the duties of a district nurse for the parishes of St Michael and Sydenham, I shall be glad if my position so far as it is practicable at the present time can be defined.

I am aware of the tentative nature of the work and that much must be left to circumstances as they develop; but I suggest for the consideration of yourselves and Mrs. Heaton Rhoden, who is so large a contributor to the funds required, one or two leading features of the intended arrangement.

That my services as a district nurse within the parishes of St Michael and Sydenham, be engaged for a period of Twelve months from the 5th day of October 1896, and that after that time, the engagement be terminable on either side, by three months notice in writing.

That my services be available for the sick poor only, who are without means to pay, and from whom no payment can be expected.

That my remuneration be fixed at the yearly sum of, not less than £80 payable by monthly instalments.

That regulations be framed for my guidance subject to revision from time to time, as occasion may require, in the drawing up of which I shall be happy to make recommendations or suggestions, if asked to do so.

That amongst other things, to be provided for, I should make quarterly reports in writing of the visits paid, and the cases nursed, and generally of any other matters coming under my notice, as to which information may be of value in furthering the objects of the undertaking, and that in cases of urgency special reports may be made oftener.

That under no circumstances shall I be required to undertake night nursing.

Yours Truly faithfully,

S.P Maude

District Nurse

The Reply

Dear Miss Maude,

We have to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 4th inst., embodying the terms upon which you will undertake district nursing, for the parishes of St Michael and Sydenham, and in reply have to state we agree to and accept the same.

Yours faithfully.

Palliative Care Education Programme 2026

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 19:05:06 GMT

Courses and workshops are offered for health professionals and carers. If you have specific requirement not listed, please contact us, we can work with you to tailor education to meet your needs.

Clinical Placements

Here at Nurse Maude Hospice, we welcome students and can offer a variety of clinical placements in our inpatient unit or with our multidisciplinary community team. We work closely with tertiary education providers to arrange visits and placements for nursing, medical, paramedicine, social work, occupational therapy and counselling students.

During their time with us students are supported to develop their knowledge and skills relating to care of patients, families and whānau who are living with a life limiting condition.

Palliative Care courses and workshops

Nurse Maude Hospice Palliative Care Service is committed to ensuring that those providing care to patients with life-limiting illness feel confident in their skills and knowledge and have access to appropriate education and support.

Note for Fundamentals of Palliative Care course [FOPC]:
Online module must be completed prior to booking onto a workshop)

Syringe Driver competency programme

Venue: Boardroom, McDougall House

The Hospice New Zealand Syringe Driver Competency Programme is for registered and enrolled nurses and develops the knowledge and skills required to manage subcutaneous infusions using the Niki T34 / Bodyguard T syringe driver.

Initial certification provides 4 hours of professional development and involves completion of pre-reading, attendance at a two-hour workshop, demonstration of practical competence and completion of a written test. Certification is maintained by attending a 2 yearly update.

Foundations in Palliative Care

Venue: Ballroom, McDougall House

This 1-day workshop for nurses and allied health professionals aims to increase knowledge and understanding of the palliative approach and includes:

Principles of Palliative Care
Pain and Symptom Management
Care in the Last Days of Life
Communication and Goals of Care
Grief, Loss and Bereavement Support
Spiritual Care

Palliative Care for Caregivers

This Hospice New Zealand education programme is an alternative to Fundamentals of Palliative Care and helps caregivers, working in all care settings, explore their role in providing palliative care.

The course consists of four 90-minute seminars and is usually delivered on site to a group of 10 -15 caregivers. There is a small cost for the course workbook.

This programme is not intended for registered nurses who should either complete Fundamentals of Palliative Care or Foundations in Palliative Care.

Fundamentals of Palliative Care

Venue: Ballroom, McDougall House

The Fundamentals programme is for healthcare professionals and caregivers and aims to provide education and resources to enable the provision of skilled and competent palliative care.

The programme is delivered via a blended model of learning, consisting of 5 online modules and 3 face to face workshops. Complete the online modules first , starting with Essence, then you can book to attend the workshops at Nurse Maude. There is no cost for this programme.

There is further information about the Fundamentals of Palliative Care Programme on The Hospice NZ website .

Palliative Care Lecture Service

Hospice New Zealand provides lectures via Zoom webinar on the First Thursday of every month, February to December, 7.30 - 8.30am. Details on Hospice NZ website.

For further information about any of these courses, please contact

Raewyn Jenkins – Palliative Care Nurse Educator
Telephone: 03 375 4274
Email: Raewyn.Jenkins@nursemaude.org.nz

To book a place on the course, please use the booking form attachment below.
If you would like to print this information, please open and print the attached brochure below.

Wills Week: Leave a Gift, Leave a Legacy

Sun, 14 Sep 2025 20:58:48 GMT

This Wills Week, we’re reminding our community of the importance of having a will - and the incredible impact you can make by leaving a gift to charity.

A will gives you peace of mind, knowing your wishes will be carried out and your loved ones cared for. It can also be a powerful way to create a lasting legacy by supporting causes close to your heart.

Why it’s important to have a will

A will ensures your assets are distributed the way you want.
It helps reduce stress and uncertainty for your loved ones.
You can appoint guardians for your children.
You can leave gifts to the charities you value, continuing your support beyond your lifetime.

Gathered Here Partnership

Nurse Maude, together with hospices across Aotearoa, has partnered with Gathered Here to make writing or updating your will simple, fast, and free.

Gathered Here is a trusted online service where you can write a will in just 20 minutes. You’ll have the option to include a gift to Nurse Maude, ensuring that future generations can continue to receive the specialist palliative and hospice care that our community depends on.

Every gift makes a difference

A bequest, no matter the size, is a deeply meaningful way to support the care, compassion, and dignity we provide for patients and their whānau every day.

Your generosity helps us continue our mission to care for people in their homes and in our hospice, free of charge.

Start today

If you don’t have a will, or it’s time to update yours, you can get started right now: Write your will online with Gathered Here

For more information, you can also visit Hospice NZ – Leave a Gift, Leave a Legacy .

Together, we can ensure hospice care will always be here, free for those who need it most.

FAQS

Do I need a lawyer to make a will?

You don’t always need a lawyer to make a will. Services like Gathered Here allow you to create a legally valid will online. However, if your situation is more complex (for example, if you have overseas property, family trusts, or a blended family), it’s recommended you seek independent legal advice.

How often should I update my will?

It’s a good idea to review your will every few years or when major life events happen - such as marriage, separation, buying property, or the birth of children or grandchildren.

What can I leave to charity?

You can leave a specific sum of money, a percentage of your estate, or particular items of value. Every gift, big or small, makes a difference.

Will my family still be looked after if I leave a gift to charity?
Yes. NZ law allows you to leave a gift to charity, provided your dependents are adequately provided for. Certain family members (such as your spouse/partner or children) can legally challenge a will if they believe they have not been properly looked after.

Why leave a gift to Nurse Maude?
By including Nurse Maude in your will, you’re helping ensure that hospice and palliative care remain free for patients and their families across our community - now and in the future.

Disclaimer: The information above is of a general nature and reflects New Zealand law at the time of writing. It is not intended as legal advice. For personalised guidance about your own circumstances, please consult a lawyer or qualified legal adviser.

Corporate Challenge 2025

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 01:13:31 GMT

Donate below to support the Nurse Maude Team

Every step counts. Nurse Maude staff and supporters are taking part in the Corporate Challenge to raise funds for our new Hospice. Your gift today will help us care for people and whānau when it matters most.

Make your donation

Use the form to donate, you can even name who you are supporting.

How to donate:

Choose your gift amount.
Enter your details
Add the name of the person you're supporting.
Enter your details and complete payment.
You’ll receive a donation receipt for your records.

If you're unsure of the name, leave the box empty.

About the Corporate Challenge

The Corporate Challenge brings workplaces together to move for a good cause. Our team is taking on the 2025 event to celebrate community, wellbeing, and generosity — all while raising funds for the new hospice. Thank you for cheering us on.

Why your gift matters

Your donation goes directly to the Nurse Maude Hospice build, helping us to:

create warm, private rooms for patients and whānau
improve comfort and dignity with modern facilities and equipment
provide spaces for reflection, conversation, and connection
sustain specialist palliative care across our community

Together we’re building a hospice that feels like home.

Share the love

Help your colleague reach their goal:

share this page with friends, whānau, and teammates
post your message of support on social media
ask your employer if they offer donation-matching

Christchurch Race

Wellington Race

FAQS

Can I make a donation for more than one person?
Yes. Make a donation, then return to this page and repeat the process with another name.

What if I don’t know the exact name?
If you're unsure of the participants name, type what you can, we can try match it to the person running.

Will I get a receipt?
Yes. A donation receipt will be issued after payment.

Where does my money go?
All donations from this page support the Nurse Maude Hospice build.

I have another question.
Email donation@nursemaude.org.nz and our team will help.

Nurse Maude Announces New Chief Executive

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 01:00:01 GMT

We are delighted to announce the appointment of Louise Zacest as the new Chief Executive of Nurse Maude, effective 26th September 2025.

Louise brings more than two decades of leadership experience in the healthcare sector, with a career dedicated to improving health outcomes and building strong, collaborative partnerships.

Most recently, Louise was Chief Executive of UniMed, where she led the organisation through significant strategic growth and operational transformation over a four-year period to become New Zealand’s third largest health insurer. Prior to that, she held senior leadership roles at Healthcare NZ, including Acting CEO, and has extensive experience in developing innovative service models to meet community needs.

Louise Zacest

Her earlier career included seven years in the public health sector as Head of Business Development at Counties Manukau District Health Board, where she played a pivotal role in expanding services to meet the needs of diverse communities.

This appointment marks an exciting new chapter for Nurse Maude as we continue our mission of providing exceptional care and support to the communities we serve. Louise’s leadership will build on our proud 129-year history, while guiding us toward new opportunities to meet the changing needs of our patients, clients, and whānau.

Please join us in welcoming Louise to the Nurse Maude whānau. We look forward to the vision, expertise, and energy she will bring as we move forward together.

We also acknowledge and thank Jim Magee for his remarkable 19 years of leadership as Chief Executive. His dedication has shaped Nurse Maude into the organisation it is today, and his legacy will be felt for many years to come.

Follow Louise on LinkedIn

Roadworks Planned for Mansfield Avenue

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 20:00:01 GMT

From 12 to 15 August 2025 a Stop/Go will be in place.

From #56 to #82 Mansfield Ave Stop/Go operations will be in place daily to replace a number of power poles, some on street parking on both sides of the road will be unavailable for the duration of the works.

For more information, please see: https://smartview.ccc.govt.nz/data/road-works

From 18 to 31 August 2025 there will be further roadworks on Mansfield Avenue.

If you have an appointment at the Speciality Clinics or are visiting someone in the Hospice or Care Home, we recommend you allow additional time during this period in case there are delays.

A Traffic Management Plan (TMP) will be in place to ensure safety and minimise disruption during this period.

Please note the following impacts:

Mansfield Avenue will be reduced to one lane, with Stop/Go traffic control in place for the duration of the works.
Three on-road car parking spaces will be temporarily unavailable during this time.

You will be able to access the Nurse Maude Visitor’s Car Park from Mansfield Avenue, for the Speciality Clinic, Hospice and Care Home as usual.

For more information, please see: https://smartview.ccc.govt.nz/data/road-works

Nurse Maude Trials Starlink in Remote Communities

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 22:15:00 GMT

Nurse Maude is trialling Starlink satellite internet to support staff working in some of New Zealand’s most remote and rugged regions. With limited or no mobile coverage in areas such as Golden Bay, the service is being tested to improve real-time access to clinical systems for frontline staff delivering home and community care.

Currently, a Case Manager based in Nelson is piloting the technology while working in low signal zones across the district. The trial includes exploring different setups - from mounting the Starlink dish to the roof racks of Nurse Maude vehicles, to positioning it on the parcel tray inside the car. A 12-volt adapter allows the unit to be powered through a standard vehicle cigarette lighter, meaning the connection can be deployed almost anywhere with a clear view of the sky.

While staff currently use a dedicated client management system that safely stores information offline and uploads when connectivity resumes, satellite internet allows for faster documentation and more timely updates to client records. The ability to maintain a stable connection, even when outside mobile coverage, means staff can stay connected to key systems, access support, and deliver more consistent care - particularly during home visits in isolated settings.

There is growing interest in expanding the trial to other regions with known mobile “dead zones,” including Murchison and parts of the Wellington region. Nurse Maude are continuing to explore how mobile satellite connectivity could be scaled to support more case managers and support workers delivering care across rural, coastal, and high-country communities.

As the health sector increasingly relies on digital tools and real-time information sharing, solutions like Starlink may help bridge the connectivity gap for clinicians working at the edges of the network - ensuring they remain connected to their teams and clients, wherever they go.

Home and community support services experience survey 2025

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 04:41:58 GMT

We want your feedback

Nurse Maude is taking part in a Nationwide Survey looking for feedback on homecare support. You can find out more here https://bit.ly/4cbZTti or ask your Support Worker.

Who is carrying out the survey?

Ipsos New Zealand, an independent research company, is carrying out the survey on behalf of home and community support service providers. The survey is part of a national programme run by Te Tāhū Hauora Health Quality & Safety Commission (Te Tāhū Hauora).

Why should I complete the survey?

This survey lets you anonymously tell your us what we are doing well and what we could do better.

Will my answers be confidential?

Yes. This survey is voluntary and anonymous. You can choose if you want to take part. Your home and community support service provider will not know who has taken part. You can choose not to answer questions. Your answers will not be connected to you in any way. The survey does not ask for any personal information that may identify you.

What is the information used for?

The survey will help home and community support service providers, like Nurse Maude, understand how well they are meeting people’s needs and how they can improve the services they are providing to you, your whānau and your community. The information gathered at local, regional and national levels reflects people’s experiences across the country and gives Te Tāhū Hauora and service funders information to help improve the quality of home and community support services throughout the country.

How do I complete the survey?

If you are invited to take part, you will get an email or text message with instructions on how to log in to the survey.

Can someone help me complete the survey?

Yes, someone can help you do the survey, but please make sure the answers given are from your point of view and not the person helping you. It is important for us to hear your story. Ipsos New Zealand also has a survey helpline.

If you are a parent/guardian of a child under 15 we recommend you complete the survey either for, or with, them to make sure they fully understand the questions.

How will my information be protected?

All information is stored on an encrypted New Zealand server and protocols are in place to maintain security throughout the survey. All personally identifiable contact information will be permanently deleted from the Ipsos New Zealand system at the end of the survey.

Please give feedback on your home and community support service experience

If you receive a survey invitation, please take part and tell us what you think.

It’s important we hear your views. This survey lets you anonymously tell your service provider what they do well and what they could do better. Your answers will not be connected to you in any way.

What do I need to do now?

The survey will be sent by email and/or text message. Please tell us if you need to update your contact details. If you receive a survey invitation, please take part and tell us what you think. Your answers will provide vital information to help us improve the quality of support services.

Celebrating Our Volunteers – NVW 2025

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 02:48:12 GMT

This National Volunteer Week (16–22 June 2024), we were proud to celebrate the heart and hands of our community: our incredible volunteers. This year's theme was “ Whiria te tangata - Weave the people together. "

Throughout the week, each of our Hospice Shops hosted their own morning teas and acknowledgements for our retail volunteers, recognising the hard mahi and heart they bring to their communities. These small, personal celebrations were spread across the week - except Tuesday, when we gathered for at McDougall House, celebrating those who volunteer in our care home, hospice, and other services.

At this event, from the moment guests arrived, the room was filled with smiles, chatter, and connection. Over cups of tea and slices of beautifully decorated cake, volunteers who work across our care home, hospice, shops, gardens and more came together to be recognised for their time, dedication and compassion.

To show our appreciation, a raffle was held featuring generous prizes donated by our wonderful suppliers. While not everyone walked away with a raffle prize, no one left empty-handed; each volunteer was gifted a large block of Bennetto chocolate and a bottle of Maude wine (chosen purely for its name, with no affiliation to Nurse Maude, but still a lovely nod!).

One of the highlights of the morning was the presentation of long service awards, honouring those who have stood by our side year after year, providing care, kindness, and consistency in times of greatest need.

In total, �� 264 volunteers contributed 21,714 hours over the past year - across the care home, hospice, hospice shops, gardening, and more. Their time, compassion, and commitment form the invisible threads that help hold Nurse Maude together.

This year’s theme, “Whiria te tangata,” beautifully reflects the essence of volunteering - people coming together, weaving connections, and strengthening communities.

To all our volunteers: thank you for being part of the fabric of Nurse Maude.

Ngā mihi nui - we are so grateful.

Thank you to all our sponsors who donated to our Volunteer Celebration!

Seeing the World, Thanks to a Gift

Tue, 20 May 2025 20:27:03 GMT

A Gift That Opens Worlds: $10,000 Donation Helps Bring the World to The Care Home

Thanks to a generous $10,000 donation from the family of a resident, our community at The Care Home is continuing to explore the world in a truly unique way - through virtual reality.

The donation has helped renew vital VR licences, upgrade equipment, and ensure staff have the time and resources to guide residents through SilVR Adventures ’ immersive experiences. These sessions allow residents to step into places they’ve always dreamed of visiting - or revisit meaningful ones from the past - without ever leaving the lounge.

Recently, a group of our most passionate VR explorers - Don, Eddy, Ron, and Jimmy - took a virtual journey to Agra, India, home of the magnificent Taj Mahal. For 21 minutes, they wandered through the city’s stunning architecture, marvelling at the detail and scale. “Where is the camera hiding?” Don asked, amazed by the 360° view.

SilVR Adventure's on using VR at Nurse Maude

The tour sparked personal memories and lively conversation. After seeing an elephant on the VR tour, Don recalled riding one on holiday years ago. Ron, who hasn’t travelled much outside New Zealand, was struck by the grandeur. He appreciates that VR allows him to travel to places he may never have had the chance to see in his lifetime. Jimmy is always fascinated by the people and countries he visits in VR - his experiences often lead him to continue reading and learning about the places long after the headset comes off.

Laughter filled the room as the group discussed how people in the recording of the tour often approach the 360-degree camera staring- “People probably think we look like aliens,” someone joked - but that didn’t stop anyone from soaking up the experience.

Laughter filled the room as the group discussed how people in the tour recording often approach the 360° camera, staring straight into it. “People probably think we look like aliens,” someone joked - but that didn’t stop anyone from soaking up the experience.

This donation is already making an impact - and not just through technology. It’s giving residents new stories to share, new memories to spark, and fresh ways to connect with one another and with their families. The team at SilVR Adventures , including their social media manager Sabrina, continues to help document and share these moments, reminding us all that curiosity and wonder don’t fade with age.

To the generous whānau who made this possible: thank you. Your gift is more than equipment - it’s a window to the world.

Hospice Awareness Week 2025

Mon, 12 May 2025 22:24:24 GMT

It’s National Hospice Awareness Week from 12-18 May and the Nurse Maude Hospice Palliative Care Service would like to thank everyone that supports our work, you make it possible to provide this specialist service free of charge across Canterbury when people need us.

We support patients and their family alongside their GP’s, practice nurses, district nursing, aged care staff and home care support to deliver specialist palliative care in the person’s home. We also provide short-term in-patient care in our Hospice, should it be required. Last year we supported 1,353 clients and their families, with 278 visiting the in-patient unit. We also provided close to 3,000 hours to residential care in the community.

While we receive Government funding, Nurse Maude raises around $2m a year to deliver the full service at no cost to those who use it, and we are extremely grateful for all the support we receive. The Nurse Maude Hospice Shops and TradeMe provide almost half the annual funding shortfall required each year, so if you have donated clothes or bric-a-brac or bought from one of our stores, thank you, your support means a lot to us and those we care for. With over 250 volunteers at Nurse Maude, donating over 21,000 hours of their time each year to support our retail operations, Care Home, and Hospice we also say a huge thank you to this dedicated army of supporters and we look forward to celebrating them during Volunteer week in June.

We are also grateful to everyone that has made a cash donation to Nurse Maude, often in memory of a loved one, your support and the funds received from corporate partners and their customers support training, resources, and equipment for people in our community. Because of your support we don’t turn anyone away and no one needs to pay for the services we provide.

Nurse Maude will be opening a new Hospice building next year, while most people receive the care they need where they live, occasionally a short stay in the hospice is required, for example to establish pain management routines, symptom assessment or end of life care. It’s important that while people are in the hospice that it feels comfortable, and welcoming - one where the whole family can visit and stay, overnight if they want to, it’s a home away from home. The funds to build the new hospice have come in part from the transformational gifts provided when people remember Nurse Maude in their Will, alongside major gifts from people like Denver Glass and Trust Grants. If you would like to support the new hospice, or the Specialist Hospice Palliative Care Service you can find out more at www.nursemaude.org.nz/get-involved .

People in Canterbury can access the Nurse Maude Hospice Palliative Care service with a referral from their GP. There are also resources available online for anyone wanting to know more about what to expect as someone approaches the end of their life.

Once again, thank you for your continued support of Nurse Maude and the Hospice Palliative Care Service.

World Hand Hygiene Day 2025

Sun, 04 May 2025 20:45:00 GMT

At Nurse Maude, delivering safe, high-quality care is at the heart of everything we do. This World Hand Hygiene Day, we join the global call to action: It might be gloves. It’s always hand hygiene.

Hand hygiene remains one of the simplest, most powerful ways to prevent the spread of infections - protecting not only our clients, but their whānau, our staff, and our wider communities.

Why Hand Hygiene Matters

Gloves are important, but they are not a replacement for clean hands. Medical gloves can become contaminated just like bare hands — sometimes within minutes of use during routine tasks.

Research shows that up to 50% of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) could be prevented through effective hand hygiene practices ( WHO Global Report on Infection Prevention and Control, 2022 ). Yet today, millions of people worldwide still acquire infections while receiving care that could have been prevented.

In Aotearoa New Zealand, we can be proud of our progress:

The national hand hygiene compliance rate for public health districts is 84.8% .
However, even here, hand hygiene is still missed in 16.3% of cases when gloves are used.
( HQSC Hand Hygiene Report, 2023 )

Each missed opportunity represents a chance where harm could occur - and highlights why hand hygiene must remain a consistent priority.

Glove Overuse and Environmental Impact

Gloves are a critical part of healthcare protection, but their overuse also creates significant environmental harm. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the global healthcare sector was generating approximately 591 tonnes of personal protective equipment (PPE) waste every day ( WHO, 2025 ) — much of it from disposable gloves.

Used gloves are classified as infectious waste , requiring careful handling and disposal. Whenever appropriate, hand hygiene without unnecessary glove use can help reduce waste and environmental burden while maintaining patient safety

A Global Goal for Safer Care

The World Health Organization has set an ambitious goal:

By 2026 , hand hygiene compliance monitoring and feedback should be a national standard in all major hospitals worldwide.

Today, only 68% of countries report having such systems in place — showing how vital it is to continue building strong infection prevention cultures ( WHO Save Lives: Clean Your Hands 2025 Campaign ).

Together, we can protect lives through clean hands.

Good hand hygiene saves lives. It protects patients. It protects whānau. It protects us all. Together, we are committed to safer care through better hand hygiene.

ACC Self-referral to Nurse Maude

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 03:53:47 GMT

ACC Self-referral to Nurse Maude

People in Canterbury who have sustained an injury can now self-refer to Nurse Maude for ACC-funded wound care services.

This care can be provided either at the Nurse Maude Clinic or in the person’s home, depending on their needs.

Self-referrals can be made directly to Nurse Maude using the online referral form , in addition to the usual pathways via; ACC, a general practitioner, or a hospital. Nurse Maude also provides nursing, continence, and stomal related care for ACC clients at no cost.

Why self-refer?

Self-referral provides another option for individuals who require follow-up care for injury-related wounds, especially in instances where they may already know the nature of their injury and need timely community-based treatment. This may be helpful for those transitioning from hospital, experiencing difficulty accessing a GP, or requiring ongoing wound management.

Under ACC’s community nursing service guidelines, individuals can access nursing care if their injury-related needs cannot be managed by their usual general practice team. Self-referral is a recognised way to initiate this process without requiring an intermediary referral.

Nurse Maude

Nurse Maude has a longstanding reputation for delivering high-quality nursing services within the community. Our team of experienced nurses specialises in wound management, ensuring that patients receive evidence-based care tailored to their specific conditions.Whether it's post-operative wounds, injuries from accidents, or chronic wounds, our staff is equipped to provide the necessary treatment and support.

For more information

If you have any questions or require assistance with the referral process, please don't hesitate to contact us directly.

Understanding the Dying Process

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 01:51:54 GMT

What happens when a person is dying?

This guide helps to explain the dying process, the symptoms that may occur and how to cope with them.

It is difficult to predict exactly what will happen in the last days of life. Some people deteriorate rapidly, slip into unconsciousness and die within hours, some are alert until the time of death, while others may be in and out of consciousness over a period of days. Dying is different for every person and every family/whānau and everyone will experience it in their own way. Caring for someone 24 hours a day may become impossible to sustain at home and sometimes an unplanned admission to hospital, hospice or residential care can become necessary. If you are a caregiver and this happens it is important to understand that you haven’t failed; you can still provide valuable care and support. Time at the end of life can be precious. If you can, make the most of opportunities to share special moments, express your feelings, say goodbye and perhaps discuss unresolved issues.

Children need open and honest information when someone they love is dying. It is important they feel included in family/whānau discussions and in caring for the person. Encourage them to talk about how they are feeling and ask questions.

A short video “What is it like to die” is available on the Hospice New Zealand website www.hospice.org.nz .

Te Ara Whakapiri

Te Ara Whakapiri, published by the Ministry of Health, provides guidance for care at the end of life. It ensures that all health care services are focused on delivering the very best care for people who are dying and their family/whānau across all settings including home, residential care, hospitals and hospices.

How will you know when death has occurred?

The person is unresponsive and not breathing.
There is no visible pulse or heartbeat.
There may be loss of bowel and/or bladder control
Facial muscles will be relaxed, and the mouth and eyes will be slightly open.
Stiffness of muscles occurs several hours after death.

What should you do when someone has died?

There is no rush to do anything immediately. You may wish to spend time with the person.
It is helpful to note the time of death.
Inform your nurse. If it is during the night, you can wait until morning.
A GP must visit to confirm a death at home and write a death certificate.
Most people contact a funeral director. Family/whānau and friends may have a recommendation.
As there may be many people to notify, consider delegating this task to family/whānau or friends.

24-hour contact

Please contact your GP or district nurse. Advice is also available 24 hours a day, seven days a week from the hospice.

Palliative Care Support in Aged Residential Care

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 01:47:32 GMT

About palliative care

Palliative care helps people with a life limiting illness live their life as fully and comfortably as possible.

Palliative care identifies and treats symptoms which may be physical, emotional, spiritual, or social. It is a family centred model of care, meaning that whānau and friends can also receive practical and emotional support.

Palliative care in aged care

Aged Residential Care (ARC) facilities are increasingly important settings for palliative and end of life care. The ARC facility staff and GP are the main providers of your care. They are supported by the Nurse Maude Palliative Aged Residential Care (PARC) service.

Palliative Aged Residential Care (PARC) Service

The Nurse Maude PARC service is part of the Hospice Palliative Care Service at Nurse Maude. The PARC service is a team of Clinical Nurse Specialists who work in partnership with all ARC facilities across Canterbury to ensure palliative care support is available to residents and their whānau.

The focus of the PARC team is on education and specialist support of the facility staff to assist with palliative care provision. This may include symptom management advice, help with advance care planning, assisting with family meetings and consultation with the wider Nurse Maude Hospice Palliative Care Service. Your facility nurse may ask the PARC Clinical Nurse Specialist to meet you and/or your whānau if appropriate.

Our position on the End of Life Choice Act 2019

We will follow our obligations in accordance with the Act if a resident wishes to explore euthanasia. However, our staff will not assess residents for eligibility, nor be present during the administration of any medication used in euthanasia, wherever that may take place. Please note that our position may not reflect the position of your facility. Please discuss with the Clinical Manager.

For more information

To find out more about the service or palliative care, please do talk to your facility nurse.

We welcome comments on the Nurse Maude PARC service.

Please feel free to complete our online survey here or phone the Nurse Maude Hospice on 03 375 4274 and ask for the Service Manager.

Symptom Management

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 01:45:09 GMT

Symptom Management

Many families/whānau worry about managing symptoms that may arise as illness progresses. This guide provides information about some of the more common symptoms. Pain is covered in a separate guide that can be found here .

Nausea and Vomiting

Feeling or being sick can be due to the illness itself or can also be a side effect of some treatments or medicines:

Eat little and often
Get someone else to prepare food and avoid cooking smells if possible
Avoid strong smelling, spicy or greasy foods
Sip ginger drinks or suck boiled sweets
An anti-sickness tablet before meals can be prescribed
Try to relax as anxiety can make nausea worse.
Avoid strong fragrances that may trigger nausea.

Poor Appetite

Food plays an important part in our lives so it can be upsetting when it becomes difficult to eat. Many people find there are times when they are not hungry and do not feel like eating:

Choose foods you really enjoy
Eat when you feel like eating – you don’t have to stick to mealtimes
Alcohol may help your appetite – try a small glass half an hour before a meal if desired
Make sure you have good pain relief to cover meal times
Use distractions such as music or television when eating

Sore or Dry Mouth

If your mouth is sore, choosing foods carefully can help:

Have milky drinks rather than fruit juices
Eat soothing cold foods like custard, yoghurt, jelly and ice cream
Let hot foods cool down slightly
Avoid highly spiced foods such as curries, acidic foods such as tomatoes and dry foods such as toast
Use a teaspoon or straw to avoid food coming into contact with the sorest part of your mouth
Use a small soft toothbrush
Speak to your doctor or nurse if you develop mouth ulcers or a white coating on your tongue. This might be oral thrush which is treatable

If your mouth is dry:

Maintain regular mouth care - every 2 hours
Sip water or cool drinks frequently
Suck fresh pineapple chunks
Use a small water spray

Constipation

There are many causes of constipation. Medicines such as morphine, reduced food and fluid intake and decreased mobility can all cause constipation:

Drink enough fluid, 6-8 cups every day if you can
Include vegetables and fruit such as kiwifruit and prunes
Keep as active as you can • Take laxatives regularly if prescribed
Talk with your doctor or nurse if constipation persists

Pressure Area Problems

Some patients who are weak and spend most of their time in bed or a chair are prone to developing pressure area problems (skin breakdown). Bony areas such as buttocks, hips, heels and elbows require special attention: Pressure Area Problems

Change position frequently - even a small change of position might help
Tell your nurse if you notice redness of any area. There is specialist pressure relieving equipment available that may help

Breathlessness

Breathlessness affects people in different ways and can be distressing:

Try to balance rest and activity. Let others help with more strenuous tasks
Sit down and dress in stages • Climb stairs slowly
Use extra pillows or a backrest in bed if lying flat is uncomfortable.
Sit straight.
Open a window or use a fan
Drop your shoulders as you breathe out. This will help control your breathing
A small dose of fast acting morphine elixir can be helpful if prescribed
Try something distracting such as listening to music
If you have tried the above without any improvement, you should contact your nurse or GP

Weakness and Tiredness

Weakness and tiredness are very common problems for many people. They can be caused by the illness itself or be a side effect of medication or treatment and can affect all aspects of life, so it is important to get help:

Plan difficult activities for the time of day when you feel your best
Prioritise things that are important to you and save your energy for them
Pace yourself – take regular rest periods
Take gentle exercise as able
Eat a balanced diet to help to maintain your energy levels, however it is also important to enjoy your food and eat what you can
Talk to your doctor or nurse. They may be able to identify a treatable cause

Low Mood or Anxiety

Many people experience a roller coaster of emotions that might include numbness, fear, anxiety, anger and low mood. There may be worries about family coping, money or housing. It can be very hard to talk to people close to you about what is happening and how you are feeling:

Accept that there will be good and bad days. Try to be honest about your feelings
Find something to hope for – a small project, a holiday or special times spent with family and friends
Understand that those closest to you will also need time to adjust to what is happening
Be honest with friends and family about what will help you most e.g. meals, gardening, childcare, company
Talk to your doctor, nurse, pastoral carer or social worker

24-hour contact

Please contact your GP or district nurse. Advice is also available 24 hours a day, seven days a week from the hospice.

Spiritual Care

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 01:39:31 GMT

Palliative care is about caring for the whole person and their family/whānau, not just their physical needs but also their emotional, social and spiritual needs - tinana, hinengaro, whanau, and wairua.

Spirituality and Spiritual Care

Spiritual is a word that means different things to different people. Some people think of the spiritual in religious terms – about finding peace with God. Others may see spiritual as being much broader – about who we are and why we are here, and how we make sense of our life.

The focus of spiritual care is on supporting, valuing, reconciling, nurturing and empowering people in whatever situations they find themselves.

When you ask: “What’s really important in my life?” you may think about family/whānau, friends, health, places, work or something else. You may also wonder about the future, what lies ahead, or about God. Spiritual care is about assisting you to explore these things, it’s not about doing, it is about being with people.

Who provides spiritual care?

All members of our team can offer spiritual care. Additionally, we have a trained Spiritual Carer and a team of Pastoral Care Volunteers. They accept everyone regardless of values, beliefs, identity, religion, spirituality or the way you question or express these things. They are available to listen, to reflect with, to explore questions about life and death, to give support in decision making and to lead prayer if requested.

What is spiritual distress?

It may include

Loss of meaning and purpose
Reduced abilities, increased dependence
Loss of control and uncertainty
Feeling like a burden
Sense of unfairness
Loss of peace of mind
Sense of regret
Loneliness
Anxiety about dying
Worry about leaving family/whānau behind
Unfinished business

What might spiritual care involve?

Listening
Encouraging
Supporting
Sharing joy and sorrow
Praying
Assisting in meeting religious and spiritual needs
Nourishing sacramentally
Creating rituals
Helping in questioning the meaning of life
Offering thanks
Counselling
Blessing
Contacting your own minister, priest or religious/spiritual advisor if requested

Spiritual care is available to patients and their family/whānau. Please feel free to discuss your spiritual needs with your nurse or health professional who can refer you to our Spiritual Care Team if required.

Hei huarahi mirimiri

i te hunga tāngata

a i te mate tangihanga

me muri ake hoki

he pou āwhina ki te whānau

To provide a therapeutic

pathway for people

before death and also

after death providing

support with the whānau

Palliative Care in the Community

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 01:37:36 GMT

About palliative care

Palliative care helps people with a life-limiting illness live their life as fully and comfortably as possible. Palliative care identifies and treats symptoms which may be physical, emotional, spiritual, or social. It is care that supports whānau and friends by providing practical and emotional support

Primary palliative care in the community

Most palliative care is provided by General Practice teams and district nurses. This is called primary palliative care. All people referred for palliative care are allocated to a district nursing service for primary palliative care alongside the GP. Often this support is enough to help patients manage and stay in their own home for as long as possible without the involvement of specialist palliative care.

Specialist Palliative Care

Sometimes GPs, district nurses or other health providers request additional advice or support from Specialist Palliative Care. Specialist palliative care teams have staff with additional training and expertise and are skilled in monitoring and supporting patients at home who may have more complex symptoms causing concern. In canterbury, community specialist palliative care is provided by the Nurse Maude Hospice Palliative Care Service.We also provide short term specialist inpatient hospice care at the Nurse Maude Hospice in Merivale.

Specialist palliative care services work closely with general practice teams and district nurses who will continue to provide most of the palliative care to patients, even if they have been referred to specialist services. The GP remains the patient’s day to day doctor and prescriber. The GP can ask the Specialist Palliative Care doctor for advice or to visit if needed. Specialist palliative care never takes over the care of the patient.

Referrals

Referrals can be made by any health professional and will be accepted if the referral meets all the criteria for specialist palliative care.

If the referral is accepted, a member of the team arranges to meet the patient either at a clinic or at their home. An assessment will be completed, and care planned. Further visits are arranged if required, but it is usually the district nurses who provides ongoing palliative support at home.

If the patient’s condition stabilises and specialist palliative care services are no longer appropriate, the patient will be discharged from our care. This will be discussed together. The district nurse and GP will usually continue to be involved in any ongoing palliative care needs. It is, however, very easy for us to become involved again if the patient’s condition changes.

Services

Palliative care is very much a team approach – some team members can help with a specific issue for a short period of time while others may become involved for longer periods. Care is tailored to an individual’s need, and may be offered by some, or all, of the following team members:

Specialist nurses: some patients will have a palliative care nurse specialist who assists with symptom management and advice and liaises with any other services involved. There is also a team who can support people in residential care.
Specialist Doctors: provide advice and support to nurses and GPs. Specialist doctors are available to see patients who have complex symptoms or concerns which are unable to be fully resolved by specialist nurses and their GP. Doctors may see patients in the outpatient clinic or at home and will always keep the patient’s own GP informed. The GP will continue to be the main prescriber of any medicines needed.
Family Support Team: offer information, advocacy and personal, practical and spiritual support to patients and their whānau. The team consists of counsellors, spiritual care worker and Māori liaison.
Social Workers: support psychosocial wellbeing of patients and whānau. They can help with many of the practical issues facing people and are able to provide information about community resources which may assist patients and whānau.
 Needs Assessors: discuss what support is available to stay at home. If staying safely at home isn’t possible, they work with the patient and their whānau to provide information and options for longer term residential care.
Dietitian: offer suggestions on eating, and food and fluid choices to help manage symptoms such as nausea, constipation and taste changes.
Occupational Therapist: focuses on a patient’s ability to undertake self-care, leisure or work-related activities. To achieve this, they may suggest modifying activities or provide equipment that maximises independence and safety.

Further information

All Nurse Maude services are free to patients and their whānau with costs partially met by the government and the remainder through the generosity of the community.

If you or your whānau have any concerns, please talk to a member of the Nurse Maude team. We appreciate that this situation may be completely unfamiliar for you. Please allow us to assist you with your concerns no matter how small they may seem. We value your perspective and want to work in partnership with you to provide the best possible care.

24-hour contact

Please contact your GP or district nurse. Advice is also available 24 hours a day, seven days a week from the hospice.

Palliative Care for Children and Young People

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 01:32:09 GMT

What is paediatric palliative care?

Paediatric palliative care is care and support for children and young adults with a life limiting illness. It focuses on comfort and quality of life for the child and support for the whole family/whānau.

Palliative care is available at any time throughout a child’s life, especially during times when the child is more unwell, and prognosis is uncertain. These can be challenging times when decision making is often difficult. Palliative care can help by working alongside everyone involved in the care of the child from the hospital through to the community teams, making sure the unique needs of each child and family/whānau are recognised, understood and met. Palliative care can be provided alongside other treatments.

Who are we?

The Hospice Palliative Care Service is a large multidisciplinary team which includes specialist doctors, nurses, allied health and family support professionals. The team is based at Nurse Maude Hospice but most of the time works in the community. The Paediatric Palliative Clinical Nurse Specialist is part of this team. Children and young people are always cared for in collaboration with the primary paediatrician, general practitioner and other health professionals.

What can palliative care provide?

Management of symptoms to keep the child as comfortable as possible and able to do the things important to them
Coordination of care and liaison with doctors and other health professionals
Care in the setting of choice (home, hospital or hospice) whenever possible
Assistance with making informed decisions about treatment and care including advance care plans
Support for children, family/whānau and friends
Hospice admission if necessary
Grief and bereavement support

How to get referred

A referral can be made to the Paediatric Palliative Clinical Nurse Specialist through the Nurse Maude Hospice Palliative Care Service. Referrals can be made by paediatricians, general practitioners, community health providers or staff at Christchurch Hospital.

24-hour contact

Advice is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from the hospice if required.

We Promise...

Your enquiries will beresponded to promptly
You will be treated withcourtesy and respect
You will be listened to, and involved in, all aspects of the care we provide
Explanations will be provided in a way you can understand
You will receive a promptand helpful response to any problem
You can rely on a continuously improving service

Grief Counselling Service

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 01:25:13 GMT

Understanding loss and grief

We can experience many losses in our lives especially when we, or someone close to us, is ill, dying or has died. Grief is a natural response to loss. It helps us adjust to change in our lives.

You may find you share some reactions in common with others, however no two people experience loss in quite the same way. Grief is very painful and may involve thoughts and feelings you don’t expect. Feeling sad, angry, lonely, numb, anxious, scared, guilty, empty, overwhelmed or relieved is not unusual. Your thinking can also be affected and sometimes you may have trouble concentrating or be quite forgetful.

Grief can also be physical and affect your sleeping, appetite, energy levels and general health. It can affect the way we relate to each other and challenge our spiritual beliefs.

After a loss it may take longer than you expect to adjust to your life being different. Many people have family and friends they can talk to, however, you may also find it helpful to talk to someone you don’t know.

The Grief Counselling Service

The service provides free counselling and support focussing on coping with life-limiting illness, grief, loss and bereavement. It is available to all patients, their family/whānau and significant others who are receiving, or who have received palliative care services from Nurse Maude.

Telephone and face to face support and counselling are available from qualified, experienced counsellors. Sessions can be one to one, couples or include family. The sessions are usually at the Nurse Maude Hospice but it may be possible to arrange a home visit.

The service provides an opportunity to talk confidentially with a person who listens to your experience of grief. We can provide information and resources, give reassurance and assist with strategies to help you adjust. If necessary, referrals can be made to other health providers.

Children and teenagers grieve too, often in ways that are quite different from adults. Their grief can lead to changes in behaviour which can be hard to understand and live with. We can arrange to meet with them and/or assist you to support them with information, advice and resources.

Seasons for Growth Grief group

We hold regular groups focussing on aspects of grief and loss. These run for 2.5 hours, once a week for four weeks, with a maximum of seven participants.

Seasons for Growth aims to inform participants about grief and loss and equip them with skills they can use on their grief journey.

Services of Remembrance

Services of Remembrance are held several times a year to remember those who died while receiving care from the Hospice Palliative Care Service. Family/whānau receive an invitation about nine to eleven months after the person has died.

These non-religious services include readings, music and candle lighting.

How can I access this service?

You can refer yourself or you may be referred by a Nurse Maude staff member, your general practitioner or another health provider. There may be a short wait, but we would hope to offer you an appointment within a few weeks.

The service usually operates Monday to Friday during normal business hours. To contact the Grief Counselling Service phone 03 375 4274.

More Information

Resources including books, brochures and useful websites are available from the Family Support Team.

Kia hora te marino

Kia whakapapa pounamu te moana

Kia tere te kārohirohi

I mua i tōu huarahi

Ara nei ake tonu atu.

May calm be widespread,

May the sea glisten like greenstone,

May the shimmer of sunlight guide your

pathway of life

Now and always.

Grief and Your Child or Teenager

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 01:22:42 GMT

Children and teenagers grieve in their own unique way. Their response will depend on their age, family and social situation, their personality, resilience and the support they receive. Children often grieve in short bursts, appearing unconcerned one moment and very upset the next. The death of someone close is not something we get over but something we adjust to, and learn to live with over time. With each change or significant event, children and teenagers may understand the loss in a new or different way.

Infants and Toddlers

Even very young children can be sensitive to major change in the family. Responses may include crying, increased clinginess, tantrums and irritability, changes in eating and sleeping patterns and searching for the person who has died.

Provide a consistent routine, give reassurance, affection and brief information. Play with them.

Pre-schoolers

Children can believe they have caused the loss and usually grieve in intense but brief moments and may worry about their own safety. Responses may include those above and going back to younger ways of behaving such as bed wetting, thumb sucking, and fearing the dark.

Provide simple explanations, maintain a consistent routine and limits, give reassurance and cuddles.

Primary School Age

At this age children are beginning to understand that death is final and may worry about their own death orother peoples. They may see death as punishment for something they did. They like to know what happened and often ask blunt questions. Responses may include going back to younger ways of behaving, sleep problems, anger and destructive play, finding it hard to concentrate, quiet withdrawal, reluctance to go to school and fear of the dark.

Provide clear honest information, a consistent routine and structure with some flexibility. Let them know they are loved and cared for and provide opportunities for them to express their feelings such as drawing, music and physical activities.

Intermediate School Age

Children at this stage understand death is final and are beginning to look for support from friends. They are often concerned about how their family will be in the future. Responses may include moodiness, irritability, anger, argumentativeness, withdrawal and changing sleeping patterns.

Provide support and acceptance, maintain boundaries with flexibility. Talk with them, acknowledge the loss and allow them time with friends.

Teenagers

Teenagers are often caught between their wish to be independent and their need for comfort and security. They usually want to fit in with their friends but after a death they may find this difficult. Responses may include withdrawal from family and friends, trouble concentrating, taking risks, pushing limits, crying secretly, changes to eating and sleeping patterns, trying to protect others, and changing peer group.

Let them grieve in their own way and in their own time. Reassure them they have the resources to cope with the pain and distress. Provide encouragement to express their feelings, accept their mood swings and include them in decision making. Allow them time alone and time with their friends.

Primary School Age

Give as much information as they can understand. You may need to repeat it many times. Encourage questions which might include “What happened?” “What caused it?” “Why did it happen?” “Is it my fault?” “Are we/am I going to be okay?”.
Don’t withhold information or they may become resentful and distrusting if they find out from other sources. Sometimes children won’t ask questions or talk about how they are feeling if they think it will upset or distress you. Let them know that it is okay to get upset when you are grieving.
Children and teenagers will take their cues from you. They often model their grieving on how they see you grieving and looking after yourself.
Don’t use euphemisms like “gone to sleep” as children can become afraid of you or them going to sleep.
Tell your children they are loved and safe and give them information about who is around to care for them.
Grieving children need attention, praise and encouragement. Hugs and physical touch can be very reassuring.
They need fun activities. If you don’t feel up to it you may be able to ask another adult to take them out or play with them. Talking during an activity is often easier for children and teenagers.
Anger is part of grief too. Help your child find safe ways to express their anger (e.g. kicking a ball, riding a bike, banging in nails).
Encourage participation in remembering activities such as making a memory box or book which include photos, drawings, birthday cards or some belongings of the person who died.
Write down all their memories of the person (e.g. favourite foods, colours, sayings and things they did together). As a child grows up it will become harder for them to remember the person who died.
Plant a tree or flowers.
Decorate a candle to be lit on special occasions.

There are many books written for children on grief and loss, most libraries have a selection. There are also several websites with good information and resources such as www.skylight.org.nz.

The Nurse Maude Family Support Service is available for grief and bereavement counselling for children and teenagers. To access this service please contact the Family Support Team.

Funeral Planning

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 01:19:07 GMT

Why plan a funeral?

Funerals and memorial services play an important role in the grieving process and acknowledging the reality of death. They are an occasion to say goodbye, celebrate the life of the person who has died, bring family/whānau and friends together to express their grief and support the bereaved.

Planning a funeral in advance gives everyone the opportunity to contribute their ideas and wishes. Pre-planning can also remove some of the decision making at a time when people are grieving.

There are no rules about the content of a funeral, and they can be personalised to reflect the life of the person who has died.

For some people, a private funeral is their personal preference but can exclude friends and others who would value saying goodbye and offering support.

Children

Parents and caregivers can positively influence a child’s experience by including them in many aspects of the funeral and allowing them to be part of decision making.

For some children, spending time with the person who has died can be an important part of saying goodbye. Children can also participate in the service by being a pall bearer, drawing a picture to place in the coffin, singing or reading a poem, or giving out flowers.

Funeral arrangements - some things to consider:

Choosing a funeral director:

It is recommended you choose a member of a recognised professional body such as the Funeral Directors Association of New Zealand (FDANZ) which has Codes of Ethics and Conduct.

You can ask friends, family/whānau for recommendations, visit several or have them visit you. You can ask for details on their services and costs be posted to you or alternatively you can find this information on the web.

If you prefer to organise the funeral yourself the Department of Internal Affairs outlines the legal requirements on their website dia.govt.nz

Funeral celebrant:

Anyone can conduct a funeral service. You can choose a clergyperson or a funeral celebrant or ask the funeral director. You may even have a family member/whānau, friend or colleague who would like to conduct the service.

Embalming:

Embalming is not essential if the person is to be buried or cremated within two to three days of death. A funeral director will be able to advise you.

Clothing:

You can choose the outfit for the person who has died to be dressed in.

Choosing to have the person who has died at home:

They can be at home for some, or all, of the time between the death and the funeral.

Service Sheet:

The Order of Service can include photos, dates of birth and death, song lyrics, readings, names of people taking part in the service and any hospitality details.

Music:

You can choose hymns, music and/or songs that had significance for the person who has died or are special to the family/whānau.

Readings:

Some have readings from the Bible, other religious texts, or readings that reflect the person who has died.

Photographs:

Photographs can be printed on the service sheet and you can have a photo display or slideshow presentation.

Recording the service:

Most funeral directors can arrange for

photographs, audio and/or video recordings of the service, or you may know someone who can do this. Some funeral directors can also live stream funeral services.

Death Notice:

These can be arranged directly with the newspaper or through the funeral director.

Coffin/Casket:

Choices include traditional polished wood, designer coffins, custom wood that can be decorated and written on, eco-friendly caskets or you can make your own.

Viewing:

Some people find this is a very special time to say goodbye while others will prefer not to have or be present at a viewing.

Venues:

While churches, crematoriums and funeral directors’ chapels are the traditional venues, you can choose a place that has significance for the family/whānau.

Eulogies and sharing memories:

You may want to ask family/whānau and close friends to talk and share memories during the service.

Pall Bearers:

There are usually six pallbearers and can be male or female

Flowers:

You can arrange flowers for the casket and venue yourself or ask the funeral director to do this for you.

Donations:

In lieu of flowers some families prefer a donation to a charity, and a donation box can be provided for this at the service.

Hospitality after the funeral:

Think about what you would like, where and who you can ask to help. The funeral director may offer to arrange this for you.

Burial or cremation:

Think about whether you would like to have a burial or cremation and whether you would like the ashes kept, interred or scattered

Biography Services

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 01:03:11 GMT

What is the Biography Service?

At this time in your life you might be looking back over the years, reflecting on what was or what might have been, perhaps thinking about your accomplishments and the things that have given you satisfaction, and also thinking about your family/whānau and friends.

The biography service is based on the premise that everyone has a story to tell in their own words and in their own way. Recording your story can be a very rewarding experience. The service is provided by specially trained volunteers called biographers. You may wish to have your whole life story told or just a particular part of it – such as your childrearing years, your work or your travels.

Sometimes, because energy or time is short, it may not be possible to complete a full biography/life story which can take quite a few hours over several weeks. If this is the case, we may be able to organise a short life review which only takes about an hour to complete.

The biographer would ask you a series of questions such as:

What are the most important moments in your life?
Are there particular stories you want people to hear?
Are there things that you want your family/whānau/friends to know about you?
What have you learned about life that you would like to pass on?
What would you like to be remembered for?

Letters

Sometimes people need assistance to write letters to leave to family members and this is also part of our service.

How and When?

The biographer contacts you to arrange a time to visit either at home or in the Nurse Maude Hospice. Interview sessions are usually scheduled for no longer than an hour at a time. Quietness and privacy are necessary, so your recollections can be recorded without interruption.

A digital recorder is used during the interview which is typed up by the biographer. You have the opportunity to edit a draft copy of the biography prior to completion. A few photographs can also be included.

You will then be given a spiral bound copy and a clipped copy. The voice recording is erased and we do not keep a copy. This is a free service and is dependent on volunteer availability so there may be a delay between requesting the service and a volunteer being available.

Access to your story and confidentiality

Your story belongs to you, and you choose who to share it with.

At the first meeting with the biographer you are assured of confidentiality, your written consent is obtained and your wishes for your story documented including what you would like done with the written record if you die before it is finished.

To Contact the Biography Service

Telephone 03 375 4274 or ask a member of staff.

Managing Pain

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 00:43:39 GMT

Pain in palliative care

Many families coping with a life-limiting illness worry about pain, but pain is not inevitable. For example, at least one third of people with cancer will not get pain.

Most pain can be managed. The Palliative Care team and your GP have expertise in the management of pain. Pain that is not well managed can affect your work, enjoyment of daily activities and relationships with your family/whānau and friends.

Managing your pain

Some people experience more than one type of pain, therefore it is important to keep your doctor or nurse informed and tell them if you experience any new pain. Only you can describe your pain. To help your doctor or nurse understand each pain try to note:

Where the pain is
Describe the pain e.g. is it stabbing, gnawing, aching, throbbing, burning, tender?
Is it intermittent or constant?
Does activity affect your pain?
Does your pain vary in severity?
Is your pain medication effective?
Does it ease when you take extra pain medication?
Does the pain wake you, or keep you awake at night?

As well as medication, there are other treatments available to help you manage pain such as heat, massage and relaxation. In some situations, more specialised treatments such as radiotherapy can be effective.

Medication

It is helpful to know about some of the pain-relieving drugs (analgesics) that are available.

Simple analgesics such as paracetamol can be very effective, especially if taken regularly. However, if paracetamol does not manage your pain a stronger analgesic is normally prescribed. Generally morphine is the stronger analgesic of choice. This is because morphine is a very effective pain reliever and the dose can be easily adjusted to match the pain you experience.

Morphine and paracetamol are commonly used together.

Morphine

Morphine works by interrupting pain signals to your brain. This takes away the sensation of pain that you would otherwise experience.

Morphine is usually started as an immediate-release tablet or liquid (elixir) which is taken every four hours. Once your pain is being managed your doctor will usually change to an equivalent dose of slow-release tablets which only need to be taken every 12 hours. It is a good idea to keep the immediate-release morphine in case you get any additional pain.

If you are unable to swallow morphine it can be injected into the skin through a tiny needle attached to a syringe. The syringe is fitted into a battery operated device called a syringe driver which delivers a prescribed amount of morphine and/or other drugs you may need constantly throughout the day. The syringe is renewed every day.

Common myths about morphine

Will I become addicted?

No. Research has established that when morphine is used to manage genuine pain, people do not become addicted.

Will I get used to morphine and require higher doses to manage my pain?

No. Many people remain on the same dose of morphine for long periods while others will have their dose adjusted upward or downward as needed.

Will I become sleepy and muddled?

Drowsiness usually only occurs for the first few days after starting morphine or after a dose increase.

Does being on morphine mean I am going to die soon?

No. Starting morphine says nothing about how long a person has to live and does not lengthen or shorten life expectancy. Many people take morphine for pain for years and it is the drug of choice for pain relief after surgery or trauma.

Common side effects of morphine

Constipation will affect most people, so it is common for your doctor to prescribe a laxative at the same time as morphine is started.

Nausea will affect some people for a few days after starting morphine so your doctor may also prescribe an anti-sickness tablet. Usually this is only needed for a week or so.

Other pain-relieving medications

Other drugs can be helpful e.g. bone pain often responds well to anti-inflammatory drugs and nerve pain can be managed using antidepressant or anticonvulsant drugs which are more commonly used to treat other conditions.

In some cases, your doctor may prescribe another strong analgesic such as oxycodone, fentanyl or methadone.

Other influences on pain

Pain is often influenced by other factors including emotional and spiritual issues such as anxiety, uncertainty and fear. While family/whānau can be a great support it can also be helpful to talk with someone who is not family/whānau. You can talk to your nurse, spiritual carer, social worker, GP or you can be referred to the Nurse Maude counsellor.

Further information

For further information please speak to a member of the Nurse Maude team.

24-hour contact

Please contact your GP or district nurse. Advice is also available 24 hours a day, seven days a week from the hospice.

Decisions about Treatment

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 02:45:58 GMT

Treatment needs change as disease progresses. What gives relief in the early stages can become less effective as the patient becomes less well. We realise decisions about treatment can be very difficult and while this leaflet sets out to explain some of these decisions, your doctor or nurse can give you more detailed information.

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)

CPR is an emergency treatment that attempts to restart the heart when it has unexpectedly stopped beating (cardiac arrest).

CPR is more appropriate when the cause of the cardiac arrest is treatable e.g. a heart attack. People with advanced disease such as cancer generally do not have a treatable cause and therefore resuscitation is usually unsuccessful.

CPR may be undignified and as it can cause injury such as bruising, broken ribs, punctured lung and/or brain damage it is unsuitable for most palliative care patients and therefore not routinely performed. CPR is discussed with patients and their family/whānau on admission.

Eating

Appetite usually decreases naturally in advanced illness as patients become less active.

Supplemental feeding via drips or tubes is not recommended for patients in the final days of their illness. Instead, patients are offered suitable fluids and/or food when they feel like it.

Simplifying medication

In the final stages of an illness, the effort required to swallow tablets can become stressful and exhausting. We usually review their medication and discuss stopping those that are no longer beneficial or necessary.

If swallowing becomes difficult, we are able to put essential medications (e.g. pain relievers) into a syringe driver which injects the medication continuously into the skin (see our leaflet ‘Managing Pain in Palliative Care’).

Green Light Recruitment Golf Tournament Raises $7,500 for Nurse Maude Hospice

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 21:03:05 GMT

On Friday, March 7th, Green Light Recruitment hosted its Annual Golf Tournament at Bottle Lake Golf Club, bringing together businesses, suppliers, and golf enthusiasts for a fantastic day on the greens - all in support of Nurse Maude Hospice and Palliative Care.

With the sun shining and the competition strong, teams played across the 18-hole course, followed by a well-earned dinner and prizegiving in the clubhouse. Thanks to the generosity of participants and sponsors, an incredible $7,500 was raised to support the essential care and services provided by Nurse Maude Hospice.

Thank you to Green Light Recruitment

We are incredibly grateful to Green Light Recruitment fo r organising this fantastic event and to everyone who participated, donated, and made the day such a success.

Interested in next year’s tournament?

Green Light Recruitment is already taking registrations for 2026.

If you’d like to enter a team or learn more, contact craig@greenlightrecruitment.co.nz .

�� Thank you for helping us continue providing care where it’s needed most.

Nurse Maude breaks ground on the new hospice for Canterbury

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 20:37:31 GMT

Mana whenua Te Taumata Tapu o Ngāi Tūāhuriri performed the Whakamoemiti | Blessing on 13 January 2025

The new Nurse Maude Hospice for Canterbury has been designed specifically for hospice care by Sheppard and Rout Architects in Christchurch and is expected to open in mid-2026. Mana whenua Te Taumata Tapu o Ngāi Tūāhuriri performed the Whakamoemiti | Blessing on 13 January 2025, signalling the handover of the site to Cook Brothers Construction for the build.

The facility will care for up to 11 patients, including paediatrics/youth, each with private rooms and garden views. The building will also have areas specifically designed for visiting whānau | family and friends to eat, rest and meet in a friendly and welcoming environment. Parking will be provided on site with landscaping plans that are subtle and incorporate privacy and beauty.

The interior design palette is a mix of subtle colours and locally designed fabrics.

The values of the hospice team will be woven through exquisite cultural designs.

Mahi kotahi collaboration, inclusivity, unity, work as one
Manaaki client centred care, respect, welcoming, nurturing, ‘special touch’
Tikanga cultural strength, tangata tiriti relationships, working with others
Wairua connection with the persons/whānau higher power, spirituality, connecting to Te Tai Ao (environmental spaces), grief process, providing Peace, ‘wairua kai’
Whānaukataka Relationships, maintaining dignity, kinship, individual care, safe spaces.

Nurse Maude is extremely grateful to our community who support us. Those who donate and purchase items via our Hospice Shops and TradeMe and those who have given cash donations to support the build and our care including individuals, Trusts and Corporates.

Denver Glass, a strong supporter whose late wife Libby was a nurse at Nurse Maude said, “Libby loved the fact that no matter who you were, if you needed care, Nurse Maude was there for the most vulnerable in our community, Libby would be delighted that she is, through me, part of the ongoing commitment to continue providing care to those in need.”

Contact Us

If you have any questions about the construction or about Nurse Maude services, please get in touch.

Construction: Cook Brothers

Glenn Whitney - Site Manager

Glenn.Whitney@cookbrothers.co.nz 027 545 4898

Brent McMillan - Project Manager

Brent.McMillan@cookbrothers.co.nz 022 017 9235

Nurse Maude:

Jane Rollings – Service Manager, Hospice Palliative Care

Jane.Rollings@nursemaude.org.nz 027 442 2552

Jo Dowling - Communications Manager

Jo.Dowling@nursemaude.org.nz 022 032 6066 or 03 375 4288

Donations

If you would like to support the Nurse Maude Hospice you can make a donation online here or visit a Nurse Maude Hospice Shop to donate or purchase high quality clothes, accessories and household items that need a second home.

Nurse Maude is grateful to receive funding from the Harcourts Foundation

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 22:51:09 GMT

Nurse Maude is grateful to receive funding from the Harcourts Foundation

A syringe driver can now be purchased thanks to a successful grant application to the Hospice NZ Grants Programme that’s supported by the Harcourts Foundation.

A syringe driver is a small battery-operated pump with a syringe. It contains medications that treats symptoms and is delivered over 24 hours. It can be carried in a bag or attached to a belt allowing a person to do whatever activities are important to them.

Syringe drivers are invaluable in helping people with swallowing difficulties or who feel nauseous. They prevent the need for repeated injections and are safe and effective. They can make such a difference to a person in keeping them as comfortable as possible.

Nurse Maude Hospice offers education and support on the use of syringe drivers across Canterbury.

“We are so grateful that the Harcourts Foundation via the Hospice NZ Grants Programme has granted us $3,000 to purchase a new syringe driver.” Jane Rollings, Hospice.

If you have any questions about syringe drivers, education or support you can contact the Nurse Maude Hospice on 03 375 4274.

Support Hospice Care with Dilmah tea.

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 19:48:53 GMT

Support Hospice Care with Dilmah tea.

Each promotional packet donates 50c to Hospice NZ.

The wonderful team at Dilmah have been supporting Hospice care for over 25 years.

Every Hospice that’s a member of Hospice NZ, including the Nurse Maude Hospice in Christchurch, is supplied with free tea for their patients, whānau, friends and staff, last year that was 400,000 teabags. The small comforts that come with a cup of tea, can make the world of difference.

Etta Images fundraising project for Nurse Maude Hospice.

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 19:48:53 GMT

Etta Images fundraising project for Nurse Maude Hospice

Juliette Capaldi of Etta Images Limited is undertaking a new photography book called Love and Grandparents with funds raised supporting the Nurse Maude Hospice.

Photography sessions of Grandparents with their loved ones cost $65 per family, with the full fee being donated to Nurse Maude. The best image from each session will appear in the Love and Grandparents photography book.

Over $2,000 has been raised so far.

Participating families can purchase images from $169 within a few days of the session, and the finished hardback books will be available to the public in time for Christmas 2024, $10 per book will also be donated to Nurse Maude.

Nurse Maude Homecare seeks client feedback.

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 19:48:53 GMT

Nurse Maude Homecare seeks client feedback

September 2024, Nurse Maude is undertaking a survey of people’s experiences of our home and community support services, along with other providers throughout New Zealand. Client feedback will help us understand what’s working for clients and where we can improve our services.

Invitations will go out by email and text message to a selection of people who are receiving or have recently received home and community support services from us.

If you would like give feedback, but have not received an invitation, you can provide feedback using the form on the Contact Us page of our website . Please email info@nursemaude.org.nz to add your email address to your Nurse Maude records for future surveys, by emailing info@nursemaude.org.nz .

The survey is nationwide and has been developed by Te Tāhū Hauora Health Quality & Safety Commission . It is being run for us by Ipsos , an independent research company. The survey is voluntary and anonymous (your answers will not be connected to you in any way).

The survey is free, will take no more than 15 minutes to complete and if you use Spark, Skinny, One NZ (Vodafone) or 2degrees there is no data use fee.

Your responses are submitted as you go through the survey. You can move backwards to change your answers by clicking the “Previous” button at the bottom of the page. If you use the “Back” button on your internet browser or mobile phone you may get taken out of the survey, but you can return to where you were using your login code. Your earlier responses will have been saved.

Complete later.

If you would like to return to your survey to complete it later, close the window and then when you are ready just return to the link provided in the email or text message and re-enter your login code. Your earlier responses will have been saved.

News from Nurse Maude

Chief Financial Officer Opportunity at Nurse Maude

Nurse Maude is seeking an exceptional Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to join our Executive Management Team, based in Christchurch.

International Women’s Day: Honouring 130 Years of Women in Community Healthcare

Honouring 130 Years of Women in Community Healthcare

Chief Executive Louise Zacest says International Women’s Day is both a celebration and a moment of reflection.

Nurse Maude's Letter

The Reply

Palliative Care Education Programme 2026

Courses and workshops are offered for health professionals and carers. If you have specific requirement not listed, please contact us, we can work with you to tailor education to meet your needs.

Clinical Placements

Palliative Care courses and workshops

Syringe Driver competency programme

Foundations in Palliative Care

Palliative Care for Caregivers

Fundamentals of Palliative Care

Palliative Care Lecture Service

For further information about any of these courses, please contact

Wills Week: Leave a Gift, Leave a Legacy

Why it’s important to have a will

Gathered Here Partnership

Every gift makes a difference

Start today

FAQS

Corporate Challenge 2025

Donate below to support the Nurse Maude Team

Make your donation

About the Corporate Challenge

Why your gift matters

Share the love

FAQS

Nurse Maude Announces New Chief Executive

We are delighted to announce the appointment of Louise Zacest as the new Chief Executive of Nurse Maude, effective 26th September 2025.

Roadworks Planned for Mansfield Avenue

From 12 to 15 August 2025 a Stop/Go will be in place.

From 18 to 31 August 2025 there will be further roadworks on Mansfield Avenue.

Nurse Maude Trials Starlink in Remote Communities

Home and community support services experience survey 2025

We want your feedback

Who is carrying out the survey?

Why should I complete the survey?

Will my answers be confidential?

What is the information used for?

How do I complete the survey?

Can someone help me complete the survey?

How will my information be protected?

Please give feedback on your home and community support service experience

If you receive a survey invitation, please take part and tell us what you think.

What do I need to do now?

Celebrating Our Volunteers – NVW 2025

Thank you to all our sponsors who donated to our Volunteer Celebration!

Seeing the World, Thanks to a Gift

A Gift That Opens Worlds: $10,000 Donation Helps Bring the World to The Care Home

Hospice Awareness Week 2025

World Hand Hygiene Day 2025

Why Hand Hygiene Matters

Glove Overuse and Environmental Impact

A Global Goal for Safer Care

ACC Self-referral to Nurse Maude

ACC Self-referral to Nurse Maude

Why self-refer?

Nurse Maude

For more information

Understanding the Dying Process

What happens when a person is dying? ﻿

Te Ara Whakapiri

How will you know when death has occurred?

What should you do when someone has died?

24-hour contact

Palliative Care Support in Aged Residential Care

About palliative care

Palliative care in aged care

Palliative Aged Residential Care (PARC) Service

Our position on the End of Life Choice Act 2019

For more information

Symptom Management

Symptom Management

Nausea and Vomiting

Poor Appetite

Sore or Dry Mouth

What happens when a person is dying?