Resources
Resources for Carers
There are many people who are caring for someone who is dying throughout the Far North. Sometimes it can be difficult to know what to do or what help and support is available.
If you’re looking after someone with a life-limiting condition, the below link will take you to some resources that can help you.
Mauri Mate
This Māori palliative care framework is a guide for the hospices of Aotearoa. It is also useful and adaptable for primary care, aged residential care, hospital teams and whānau care. This Framework responds to issues that Māori have raised with service providers and researchers.
More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does hospice care cost in NZ?
Hospice care in New Zealand, including at Far North Community Hospice, is completely free of charge for patients and their whānau.
Our specialist in-home palliative care services are funded through a mix of Government funding and the generosity of our local Far North community — meaning there is no cost to receive support, no matter how long it’s needed. From Mitimiti to Cape Reinga, we’re here to help people live well, without financial burden.
The Truth About Hospice: What Families Need to Know
What many people don’t realise is that hospice care isn’t just for the very end of life. At Far North Community Hospice, we support people from the time of diagnosis of a life-limiting illness, offering help with managing symptoms, navigating emotional challenges, and supporting whānau every step of the way.
Our palliative care team can be involved early, helping people live as well as possible at home — not just during the final days, but throughout the journey. Many patients say they wish they had been referred sooner.
What’s the difference between hospice and palliative care?
Palliative care is a broader approach focused on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life for people with serious, life-limiting conditions. It can be provided alongside other treatments and isn’t limited to those nearing the end of life.
Hospice care, like the services we provide at Far North Community Hospice, is a specialist form of palliative care offered when a person is no longer receiving curative treatment. Our in-home hospice service supports both patients and their whānau through this time, ensuring comfort, dignity, and peace — always delivered with empathy and cultural sensitivity.
How long do patients stay in hospice?
Far North Community Hospice does not have an inpatient unit on site. Most people we support prefer to remain in the comfort of their own homes, surrounded by the people and things they love. However, we do offer the use of a dedicated room at Kaitaia Hospital – called “The Haven” for those people who prefer not to have their last few days at home. A support person must be with patients at all times when using this room and whānau are encouraged to be there with the person. Hospice Nurses and hospital staff will be available to support medication management, but families will care for the patient’s personal needs.
In addition, all people in the Far North are able to access the Inpatient Unit (IPU) at North Haven Hospice in Whangārei if that is their preference. Your FNCH Nurse will be able to arrange this for you.
The length of hospice support varies. Some people receive end-of-life care over a short period, while others may be supported for weeks, months or even years, depending on their needs. Our team walks alongside patients and whānau for as long as support is needed — always free of charge and tailored to each person’s journey.
Do you have an office where we can visit you?
Yes you are welcome to visit us at 58A Matthews Avenue anytime. Our office is usually manned from 8am -430pm Monday to Friday. We also have a lovely quiet home “Awhi House” behind our offices where we can meet with you and/or any of your whānau away from home if you would prefer that.