We are here to support people with cancer and their whānau across Tairāwhiti. We are part of the Central Districts Division of the Cancer Society.

Updated Cancer Society services ongoing

As we move into a world without the mandates and other Covid-19 restrictions, clients and any other visitors to our centres will not need to wear a mask.  Although, if you would like to wear one then you are welcome to.

We understand that those affected by cancer may still feel vulnerable and prefer to either wear a mask or have us wear a mask if our Supportive Care team visit them at home.  We understand this and our friendly team will check with clients which they would prefer before visiting. Masks are still required in a hospital or health provider setting. 

Our Supportive Care team will not need to be tested for Covid-19 if they come into contact with another person who has Covid-19, however, if they become unwell and show symptoms then they are required to do a test before they come into work and if they test positive isolate in line with the government guidelines.

As always, we are here for anyone with any cancer regardless of everything else, so please do connect with your local centre should you or a loved one need support.

Available services

Clients and any other visitors will not need to wear a mask to use a Cancer Society shuttle or our Volunteer Driving Service or to visit our centre.  Although, if you would like to wear one then you are welcome to.

Group sessions have now resumed. Massage and other therapy continues. Please check with us for details and availability.

What we do

Cancer is now the leading cause of death in New Zealand. As we grow older the likelihood of developing cancer increases.

Each year in Tairāwhiti there are over 250 people diagnosed with cancer.  Every day at the Cancer Society we help all people with any cancer, their whānau and friends to deal with a cancer diagnosis.

We advocate for cancer patients, providing a voice on all kinds of issues including cancer prevention, screening, early detection and treatment. We support people during treatment and beyond. 

We do this through a wide range of core services in supportive care and information and helping to connect people. We develop and run community health promotion and cancer prevention programmes to keep people well.

Supportive care

We provide a range of free support services for people with cancer and their whānau/caregivers. We help get people through their cancer diagnosis and support them beyond treatment.

  • General cancer support – we walk alongside, providing one-on-one support, patient advocacy and advice, tailored to the needs of the patient and whānau.
  • Resources – we have a wide range of resources, written in plain English for patients and whānau.
  • Support groups.
  • Transport  to cancer treatment.
  • Emergency financial assistance via grants.
  • Oncology massage
  • Breast prosthesis service.
  • Counselling.
  • Referrals to Look Good Feel Better workshops.

Cancer helpline

We know that going through cancer is tough and can raise many questions. We want you to know that we’re here for you.

Need transport to treatment?

We have a dedicated team of volunteers to drive you to treatments when your whānau and friends aren't available.

Find out more

Accommodation options

We aim to provide you with a home away from home so you can focus on your treatment.

Find out more

Referral form for Health Professionals

Our services are available to anyone diagnosed with cancer, family/whānau. Please use this form if you would like to use our services or refer someone else to our services.

If you or a member of your whānau have received a cancer diagnosis, you can just ring us on 0800 226 237. You don't need to be referred by a health professional.
Central Districts - referral form

Quick links

Last updated: September 25, 2023