A community mental health facility threatened with closure in Nelson is to be retained, and strengthened.
In June Katrina Marwick arrived at the steps of Parliament on her bike to deliver a petition against the proposed closure of the mental health facility. Photo: RNZ / Charlie Dreaver
In June, Nelson Marlborough Health announced it was planning changes for Nikau House, which prompted a strong response from clients, their whānau and supporters.
Mental health, addictions and disability support services general manager Jane Kinsey said the high level of feedback during consultation forced a re-think.
The renamed Nikau Hauora Hub will continue at the same location in the central city, and will be developed to better meet the needs of a wider range of people including Māori, Pasifika and youth.
Last month, a trio cycled from Nelson to the steps of Parliament in a bid to save the community facility, and deliver a petition asking for the proposal to stop.
One of the cyclists, Katrina Marwick said her son had been going to the facility for several years.
She said Nikau House offered holistic support to those who needed it and had a drop-in centre with no appointment needed.
