Mental Health Awareness Month
This years national theme is ‘Belonging Matters’
All events are free to attend. Please register for events where registration is required.
Monday 5 October
Paws for mental health by Community Link
Dogs play a powerful role in supporting our mental and physical health and wellbeing. Come along to The Hub to hang out with a hound from Community Link Outreach Therapy Pet service – brighten your day by having a cuppa with canine companionship and simply enjoy engaging with our volunteers’ beloved friends.
Time and venue: 11:30am-12:30pm, in reception at Wānaka Community Hub, 34 McDougall Street.
To register: No need to register, if you would like to know more, please contact support@communitylink.nz.
Facilitator Website: Community Link Upper Clutha
Tuesday 6 October
The Story Weaver Grief Circle by Bold Women Speak
How your words and story shape your grief
The Story Weaver Grief Circle is a supportive three-week gathering for people grieving the death of someone they love. Facilitated by grief guide, celebrant, and Bold Women Speak founder Janelle Fletcher, this intimate circle offers a safe space to share stories, feel heard, and honour loss. Participants will explore how the stories they tell about grief shape their experience and discover compassionate ways to hold both loss and love. Open to anyone grieving a baby, child, sibling, parent, grandparent, partner, friend, or loved one, the circle fosters connection, belonging, reflection, understanding, and meaningful community support.
Time and venue: 6.30-8pm, Wānaka Community Hub auditorium, 34 McDougall Street. You can also find this event on 13th and 20th.
To register: Please email janelle@boldwomenspeak.com. To keep this grief circle intimate and sacred, please register with Janelle. A commitment to all 3 nights is ideal and highly recommended for the benefit to your growth and for your best contribution to others.
Facilitator Website: Bold Women Speak | Join the Movement—Speak Up Now
Creating Mentally Fit Workplaces in the Wānaka Bubble by Wellbeing First
This workshop explores how to create workplaces where people can perform, thrive, and stay well while supporting sustainable business success. Moving beyond individual resilience, it examines the connection between wellbeing, workplace culture, leadership, relationships, workload, and job design. Participants will gain practical insights into the factors that influence mental health at work and learn what individuals, leaders, and organisations can do to foster healthier ways of working. Free from jargon and grounded in workplace wellbeing principles, the session aims to help Wānaka businesses think differently about mental health and leave with practical, actionable ideas.
Time and venue: 12-1pm, Wānaka Community Hub auditorium, 34 McDougall Street.
Facilitator Website: Wellbeing Expert | Support for Workplace & Individual Wellbeing
Wednesday 7 October
Wanaka Creative Wellbeing
Free creative art sessions for individuals over 17 experiencing health and well-being challenges. Weekly sessions.
Time and venue: 10:30am-1pm at Wānaka Community Hub auditorium, 34 McDougall Street. You can find this session on Wed 14th, 21st and Fri 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th.
To register: Email wanaka@artsenta.org
Facilitator Website: Artsenta | A creative space for tangata whaiora | Supporting wellbeing through creativity
Qigong by Barbara
Mindfulness in movement
We start with gentle warm-ups, stretches and breathwork to open meridians, release stagnant energy (Qi) and relax the body. Flowing movements in the second half circulate Qi, leaving you calm, balanced and energized. No previous experience required.
Time and venue: 11am-12pm, Wānaka Community Hub auditorium, 34 McDougall Street.
To register: Phone 027 339 8280 or email: barbarajungen2@gmail.com
Facilitator Website: Barbara Jungen | Holden QiGong Teacher Directory
The Biology of Belonging: What to Accept, What to Change by Applied Movement
Why does connection feel effortless in some environments and difficult in others? In this 60-minute presentation, precision health and lifestyle coach Claire Akin Smith explores how biology, physiological state, beliefs, and everyday behaviours shape our sense of belonging. Discover why people can experience the same situation differently and how stress responses, sensory processing, and our need for connection influence relationships and self-understanding. The session explores the difference between traits that require greater acceptance and patterns that can be changed. Participants will leave with practical tools to better understand themselves, support connection, and appreciate differences in others.
Time and venue: 6-7pm, Wānaka Community Hub auditorium, 34 McDougall Street.
To register: https://events.humanitix.com/the-biology-of-belonging-what-to-accept-what-to-change
Facilitator Website: Applied Movement
Thursday 8 October
Connect and Thrive Wellbeing by Headlight- CANCELLED
Connect & Thrive: Wellbeing by Headlight
Practice wellbeing and connection with simple, fun and practical exercises. Share what wellbeing means to each one of us and reflect on how the 5 ways to wellbeing show up in our lives. This programme is an invitation to check in with yourself, a moment to share and connect with others, and a reminder of mental wellbeing tools you already use - all in a facilitator-led, safe and supportive kōrero | conversation.
Time and venue: 5:30-6:45pm, Wānaka Library 1 Bullock Creek Lane, Dunmore Street.
To register: Bookings required. Contact Wānaka Library wanaka.library@qldc.govt.nz
Facilitator Website: https://headlight.org.nz/
Transformational Breathwork journey by Tawna and Tala
Get clear on your direction.
Rewire limiting patterns so your past doesn’t dictate future.
Let go of trapped stress, pain, and old emotional wounds and stories that don’t serve.
Rebuild self-trust, self-love and courage to step into your desires fully.
Time and venue: 6-9pm, Wānaka Community Hub auditorium, 34 McDougall Street.
To register: https://events.humanitix.com/transformational-breathwork-journey-for-mental-health-awareness-month
Facilitator Website: Tawna Woods | Empower Your Wellness Today and Intuitive Wellness | Humanitix
Friday 9 October
Wanaka Creative Wellbeing
Free creative art sessions for individuals over 17 experiencing health and well-being challenges. Weekly sessions.
Time and venue: 10:30am-1pm at Wānaka Community Hub auditorium, 34 McDougall Street. You can find this session on Wed 14th, 21st and Fri 16th, 23rd, 30th.
To register: Email wanaka@artsenta.org
Facilitator Website: Artsenta | A creative space for tangata whaiora | Supporting wellbeing through creativity
Herbal tea making workshop by Herbal Culture
Slow down, connect with plants and share the simple pleasure of making herbal tea together. In this hands-on workshop, we’ll explore a selection of herbs, learn about their traditional and medicinal uses, and discover how to combine them into delicious herbal tea blends. A relaxed opportunity to connect with nature, learn something new and enjoy a cup of tea in good company.
Time and venue: 5-7pm, Wānaka Community Hub meeting room, 34 McDougall Street.
To register: https://events.humanitix.com/herbal-tea-making-workshop-mentalhealthawarenessmonth
Facilitator Website: herbalculture.co.nz/about/
Ortho-Bionomy
Ease & Comfort — A Gentle Self-Care Toolkit, Inspired by Ortho-Bionomy
A free, hands-on introduction to five simple, gentle techniques anyone can use to ease tension and support their nervous system — no experience necessary. Drawing on Ortho-Bionomy principles, the session focuses on working with the body rather than against it, helping people build a small, sustainable self-care toolkit they can use anytime, anywhere. Each attendee will take home a printed guide to the techniques covered.
Time and venue: 6-7pm, Wānaka Community Hub auditorium, 34 McDougall Street. You can also find this event on 16th, 23rd, 30th.
To register: Email ob@juliafast.nz
Facilitator Website: Julia Fast
Community Cooking Group
For more than five years, Community Link's Community Cooking Group has been bringing people together around food, conversation, and friendship. Held every second Friday in the commercial kitchen at the Wānaka Community Hub, the group welcomes people of all ages, backgrounds, and cooking abilities. Some participants have been attending since the group began, while others might join just once while passing through town. Current coordinator Diana Manson says the group is as much about connection as it is about cooking. Participants work together to prepare a recipe before sitting down to share lunch.
Time and venue: 11.30am-2pm, Wānaka Community Hub auditorium, 34 McDougall Street. You can also find this event on 23rd.
To register: Email mansondiana@gmail.com
Facilitator Website: Community Link Upper Clutha
Saturday 10 October
Drawing Therapy Session
Local trauma-informed counsellor Theresa Bruce is offering two free Interactive Drawing Therapy (IDT) session for children and adults, in celebration of World Mental Health Day.
Time and venue: Saturday 10th at the Wānaka Community Hub, 34 McDougall Street. Kids 8-12 years old 2-3pm and adults 6-7pm
To register: Spaces limited to 10 - cascadecounsellingnz.co.nz
Facilitator Website: cascadecounsellingnz.co.nz
Grow Wānaka Saturday Morning Bee & Tea - Volunteering
Grow Wānaka Community Garden Working Bee finishing with morning tea and a share of the collective harvest.
Time and venue: Every Saturday 9:30am-12pm, Outlet Road, Wānaka 9305.
Facilitator Website: HOME | Grow Wanaka | Wānaka Community Garden
Hāwea Food Forest Working Bee & Morning Tea - Volunteering
Join us for a morning of gardening and harvesting. Enjoy a shared morning tea. Take home some veggies, grow food resilience and learn new skills. Tools are provided. All welcome.
Time and venue: Saturdays 10am- 1pm, 130 Domain Rd, Lake Hāwea.
Facilitator Website: (6) Hawea Food Forest | Facebook
Parkrun
Parkrun is a global, free, fun and friendly weekly 5K timed community event for walkers, joggers and runners. Note you can walk, jog, run, push a buggy, bring a dog but no bikes. We have a coffee after at Edgewater - they kindly reserve us a long table inside by the pavillian, so lots of opportunity for chats with others.
Time and venue: Every Saturday at 8am from a start/finish in Wanaka Station Park, off Mt Aspiring Road at the edge of town.
To register: Click here to register for parkrun.
Facilitator Website: home | Wanaka parkrun | Wanaka parkrun
Monday 12 October
Coffee Connection by Community Link
Looking for a warm cuppa, a friendly chat, and some good company?
Come along to our Coffee Connection – a relaxed and welcoming get-together just for seniors in our community!
Time and Venue: 10-11:30am, in reception at Wānaka Community Hub, 34 McDougall Street.
To register: Email connect@communitylink.nz
Facilitator Website: Community Link Upper Clutha
Play Therapy - Positive World Child
Building a positive relationship with your child through wonderful world of child-centred play therapy.
Parents/categivers of children from 3 to 12 can come along to learn about how to support their children's wellbeing. We will be teaching practical skills to help parent and caregivers to feel closer to your child through play.
Time and venue: 6:30-8pm, Frankie’s playroom at 272B Ballantyne Road.
To register: email Natalie on natalieplayconnectgrow@gmail.com
Facilitator Website: Play Therapy
Paws for mental health by Community Link
Dogs play a powerful role in supporting our mental and physical health and wellbeing. Come along to The Hub to hang out with a hound from Community Link Outreach Therapy Pet service – brighten your day by having a cuppa with canine companionship and simply enjoy engaging with our volunteers’ beloved friends.
Time and venue: 11:30am-12:30pm, in reception at Wānaka Community Hub, 34 McDougall Street.
To register: No need to register, if you would like to know more, please contact support@communitylink.nz.
Facilitator Website: Community Link Upper Clutha
Mat Pilates by Northlake Pilates
Rediscovering Awareness: Finding autonomy, ownership and confidence in the way you move
Pilates is a low-impact form of exercise that builds strength, mobility and balance. What Pilates does exceptionally well, but we hear far less about - is cultivate awareness of self.
In this class, we’ll use movement, cueing and curiosity to reconnect with our bodies and explore movement that feels like our own. Expect possibility, play and moments of self-reflection as we use movement to make space for gratitude, appreciation, emotional resilience and mental wellbeing.
Time and venue: 1-1.50pm, Wānaka Community Hub meeting room, 34 McDougall Street.
To register: https://clients.mindbodyonline.com/classic/ws?studioid=5738424&stype=-8&sTG=35&sView=day&sLoc=0&date=10/12/26
Facilitator Website: Our Team | Meet your Pilates instructors | Northlake Pilates Studio
Free Gym class by Fit Collective
Come and attend any of our small group classes or yoga. One per person free during mental Health awareness week.
Move Your Body. Strengthen Your Mind. This Mental Health Awareness Week, join our Strength, Cardio, Yoga and Women Only classes. Exercise boosts mood, reduces stress, builds strength and confidence, and supports a healthier body and mind.
Time and venue: Between 12th-18th October at The Fit Collective, 5 Gordon Road.
To register: https://tbg.gymmasteronline.com/portal/membership/146259dafe67cdd733d0445f3efb9b11
Facilitator Website: TFC Wanaka gym and small group training
Free Gym Class by Snap Fitness Wanaka
Moving your body can do amazing things for your mental health and we want to help get more of our community moving and discovering how great exercise can be! That is why we are offering free classes from 12th-18th October PLUS a free 5 session pass for mental health month! See our class schedule below. Bookings are essential as space is limited. Monday: 6am - Circuit, 2pm - Senior Circuit, Tuesday: 7pm - Stretch and Mobility, Wednesday: 6am - Circuit, Thursday: 6am - Strength and Conditioning, 9:30am - Stretch and Mobility, Friday: 8am - Senior Circuit.
Not a class person but looking for a warm welcoming gym where you can work on your health and fitness in a supportive environment, come try us out and with a 5 day free trial, available for all of October! To sign up for a 5 day please visit us during staffed hours.
5 day trial cards can be activated anytime during October, but once activated must be used within two weeks.
Time and venue: Between 12th-18th October at Snap Fitness Wānaka, 5/1 Sir Tim Wallis Drive.
To register: to book in for a class please either email wanaka@snapfitness.com or call/text 02108566026.
Facilitator Website: 24/7 Gym in Wanaka, Otago - Snap Fitness New Zealand
Tuesday 13 October
Quiz night by Verve
Quiz night with one block related to myths and reality about mental health. $1 of every drink purchase will be donated to Community Link.
Time and venue: Come at 6:30pm; quiz starts at 7pm, at Verve 40 Helwick Street.
To register: Bookings, please contact Verve drink@vervewanaka.nz
Facilitator Website: Wanaka Wine Bar & Craft Beer - Verve
The Story Weaver Grief Circle by Bold Women Speak
How your words and story shape your grief
The Story Weaver Grief Circle is a supportive three-week gathering for people grieving the death of someone they love. Facilitated by grief guide, celebrant, and Bold Women Speak founder Janelle Fletcher, this intimate circle offers a safe space to share stories, feel heard, and honour loss. Participants will explore how the stories they tell about grief shape their experience and discover compassionate ways to hold both loss and love. Open to anyone grieving a baby, child, sibling, parent, grandparent, partner, friend, or loved one, the circle fosters connection, belonging, reflection, understanding, and meaningful community support.
Time and venue: 6.30-8pm, Wānaka Community Hub auditorium, 34 McDougall Street. You can also find this event on 20th.
To register: Please email janelle@boldwomenspeak.com. To keep this grief circle intimate and sacred, please register with Janelle. A commitment to all 3 nights is ideal and highly recommended for the benefit to your growth and for your best contribution to others.
Facilitator Website: Bold Women Speak | Join the Movement—Speak Up Now
Free Gym class by Fit Collective
Come and attend any of our small group classes or yoga. One per person free during mental Health awareness week.
Move Your Body. Strengthen Your Mind. This Mental Health Awareness Week, join our Strength, Cardio, Yoga and Women Only classes. Exercise boosts mood, reduces stress, builds strength and confidence, and supports a healthier body and mind.
Time and venue: Between 12th-18th October at The Fit Collective, 5 Gordon Road.
To register: https://tbg.gymmasteronline.com/portal/membership/146259dafe67cdd733d0445f3efb9b11
Facilitator Website: TFC Wanaka gym and small group training
Free Gym Class by Snap Fitness Wanaka
Moving your body can do amazing things for your mental health and we want to help get more of our community moving and discovering how great exercise can be! That is why we are offering free classes from 12th-18th October PLUS a free 5 session pass for mental health month! See our class schedule below. Bookings are essential as space is limited. Monday: 6am - Circuit, 2pm - Senior Circuit, Tuesday: 7pm - Stretch and Mobility, Wednesday: 6am - Circuit, Thursday: 6am - Strength and Conditioning, 9:30am - Stretch and Mobility, Friday: 8am - Senior Circuit.
Not a class person but looking for a warm welcoming gym where you can work on your health and fitness in a supportive environment, come try us out and with a 5 day free trial, available for all of October! To sign up for a 5 day please visit us during staffed hours.
5 day trial cards can be activated anytime during October, but once activated must be used within two weeks.
Time and venue: Between 12th-18th October at Snap Fitness Wānaka, 5/1 Sir Tim Wallis Drive.
To register: to book in for a class please either email wanaka@snapfitness.com or call/text 02108566026.
Facilitator Website: 24/7 Gym in Wanaka, Otago - Snap Fitness New Zealand
Wednesday 14 October
Microplastic Lab by WAI
Learn about WAI's Teeny Tiny Truth project and citizen science monitoring programme to build an understanding of microplastic pollution in local waterways. You'll get to observe microplastic samples on filter papers under microscopes and learn about fibres vs fragments, and how to identify them. No prior experience needed. If you're interested in learning more about microplastics and using microscopes, or connecting with other passionate people, come along!
Time and venue: 2-3pm at WAI Office, 185 Riverbank Road.
To register: Please sign up through the following link: https://airtable.com/apps9kPa9oiGqGz8k/shrG2eedHBV9NS6yZ
Or feel free to contact getinvolved@waiwanaka.nz
Facilitator Website: Home - WAI Wānaka
Wanaka Creative Wellbeing
Free creative art sessions for individuals over 17 experiencing health and well-being challenges. Weekly sessions.
Time and venue: 10:30am-1pm at Wānaka Community Hub auditorium, 34 McDougall Street. You can find this session on Wed 21st and Fri 16th, 23rd, 30th.
To register: Email wanaka@artsenta.org
Facilitator Website: Artsenta | A creative space for tangata whaiora | Supporting wellbeing through creativity
Free Gym class by Fit Collective
Come and attend any of our small group classes or yoga. One per person free during mental Health awareness week.
Move Your Body. Strengthen Your Mind. This Mental Health Awareness Week, join our Strength, Cardio, Yoga and Women Only classes. Exercise boosts mood, reduces stress, builds strength and confidence, and supports a healthier body and mind.
Time and venue: Between 12th-18th October at The Fit Collective, 5 Gordon Road.
To register: https://tbg.gymmasteronline.com/portal/membership/146259dafe67cdd733d0445f3efb9b11
Facilitator Website: TFC Wanaka gym and small group training
Free Gym Class by Snap Fitness Wanaka
Moving your body can do amazing things for your mental health and we want to help get more of our community moving and discovering how great exercise can be! That is why we are offering free classes from 12th-18th October PLUS a free 5 session pass for mental health month! See our class schedule below. Bookings are essential as space is limited. Monday: 6am - Circuit, 2pm - Senior Circuit, Tuesday: 7pm - Stretch and Mobility, Wednesday: 6am - Circuit, Thursday: 6am - Strength and Conditioning, 9:30am - Stretch and Mobility, Friday: 8am - Senior Circuit.
Not a class person but looking for a warm welcoming gym where you can work on your health and fitness in a supportive environment, come try us out and with a 5 day free trial, available for all of October! To sign up for a 5 day please visit us during staffed hours.
5 day trial cards can be activated anytime during October, but once activated must be used within two weeks.
Time and venue: Between 12th-18th October at Snap Fitness Wānaka, 5/1 Sir Tim Wallis Drive.
To register: to book in for a class please either email wanaka@snapfitness.com or call/text 02108566026.
Facilitator Website: 24/7 Gym in Wanaka, Otago - Snap Fitness New Zealand
Thursday 15 October
Connect & Thrive Wellbeing by Headlight
We invite you to join us for Connect & Thrive Wellbeing - a kōrero (chat) to check in with yourself, and connect with other parents. Led by our facilitator through the lens of their own lived-experience, this interactive, conversational session invites you to reflect on mental wellbeing tools you already possess, and practice easy ways to access them to boost your mood daily. Feel more confident supporting yourself, as well as your and whānau (family) and friends.
Together we will…
…share what ‘wellbeing’ means as a parent of young bubs
…reflect on how the ‘5 ways to wellbeing’ apply to parenthood
…practice wellbeing and connection through simple exercises
…create a personalised plan for you (and your community) to Connect & Thrive!
Bubs are welcome to accompany you. Light refreshments will be served.
Time and venue: 10-11.30am at Upper Clutha Plunket 51 Ardmore St.
To register: Free to attend, but please RSVP via the link below to secure your space. https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/rmh6y9JWBG
Facilitator Website: https://headlight.org.nz/
Kai Connect & Craft by CO REAP
A Dish That Says Home - Join us for a relaxed potluck lunch and craft afternoon, bringing CHOICES learners, whānau, friends and supporters together over kai and creativity. Bring a dish that means something to you — a family recipe, a cultural favourite, or just a kai that feels like home — and share the story behind it.
Time and venue: 12-2:30pm at Alexandra House Room A/B.
To register: email sarah@coreap.org.nz
Facilitator Website: Central Otago REAP Incorporated
Belonging & You by Wellbeing First and Applied Movement
Belonging Begins With You: What Lights You Up?
Belonging begins with permission: permission to reconnect with the people, passions, and parts of yourself that make you feel most alive. This interactive session explores the idea that belonging is not about fitting in, but about feeling safe and confident enough to be yourself. Together, we’ll reflect on what energises us, the people and places where we feel most at home, and the parts of ourselves that may have been set aside as life became busy. Participants will leave with greater self-awareness, a stronger sense of identity and connection, and one practical step to nurture belonging in everyday life.
Time and venue: 5.30-7pm, at Wānaka Community Hub meeting room, 34 McDougall Street.
To register: http://events.humanitix.com/belonging-begins-with-you-what-lights-you-up
Facilitator Website: Wellbeing Expert | Support for Workplace & Individual Wellbeing and Applied Movement
Botanical walk by Herbal Culture
Connect with the place around you, and with others, through a guided botanical walk. Slow down, observe your surroundings and discover the plants growing all around us. Along the way, we’ll explore native and exotic plants, learn how to identify them, uncover some fascinating facts and discover their traditional and medicinal uses. A chance to connect with nature, share knowledge and cultivate a deeper sense of belonging to the places we live.
Time and venue: 5-6:30pm, meet at the reception of Wānaka Community Hub, 34 McDougall Street.
To register: https://events.humanitix.com/botanical-walk-mentalhealthawarnessmonth
Facilitator Website: herbalculture.co.nz/about/
Free Gym class by Fit Collective
Come and attend any of our small group classes or yoga. One per person free during mental Health awareness week.
Move Your Body. Strengthen Your Mind. This Mental Health Awareness Week, join our Strength, Cardio, Yoga and Women Only classes. Exercise boosts mood, reduces stress, builds strength and confidence, and supports a healthier body and mind.
Time and venue: Between 12th-18th October at The Fit Collective, 5 Gordon Road.
To register: https://tbg.gymmasteronline.com/portal/membership/146259dafe67cdd733d0445f3efb9b11
Facilitator Website: TFC Wanaka gym and small group training
Free Gym Class by Snap Fitness Wanaka
Moving your body can do amazing things for your mental health and we want to help get more of our community moving and discovering how great exercise can be! That is why we are offering free classes from 12th-18th October PLUS a free 5 session pass for mental health month! See our class schedule below. Bookings are essential as space is limited. Monday: 6am - Circuit, 2pm - Senior Circuit, Tuesday: 7pm - Stretch and Mobility, Wednesday: 6am - Circuit, Thursday: 6am - Strength and Conditioning, 9:30am - Stretch and Mobility, Friday: 8am - Senior Circuit.
Not a class person but looking for a warm welcoming gym where you can work on your health and fitness in a supportive environment, come try us out and with a 5 day free trial, available for all of October! To sign up for a 5 day please visit us during staffed hours.
5 day trial cards can be activated anytime during October, but once activated must be used within two weeks.
Time and venue: Between 12th-18th October at Snap Fitness Wānaka, 5/1 Sir Tim Wallis Drive.
To register: to book in for a class please either email wanaka@snapfitness.com or call/text 02108566026.
Facilitator Website: 24/7 Gym in Wanaka, Otago - Snap Fitness New Zealand
Friday 16 October
Wanaka Creative Wellbeing
Free creative art sessions for individuals over 17 experiencing health and well-being challenges. Weekly sessions.
Time and venue: 10:30am-1pm at Wānaka Community Hub auditorium, 34 McDougall Street. You can find this session on Wed 21st and Fri 23rd, 30th.
To register: Email wanaka@artsenta.org
Facilitator Website: Artsenta | A creative space for tangata whaiora | Supporting wellbeing through creativity
Iyengar Yoga by Northlake yoga
Moving, Breathing, Being. An introduction to Iyengar Yoga for mental wellbeing.
Beginner - friendly introduction to Iyengar yoga exploring the connection between body, breath and mind through accessible asana, supported poses, breath awareness and relaxation. Props and modifications will support different abilities.
Time and venue: 12-1pm, Wānaka Community Hub auditorium, 34 McDougall Street.
To register: email Sirpa via northlakeyoga@gmail.com
Facilitator Website: Northlake Yoga - Iyengar Yoga Wanaka - Wānaka
Ortho-Bionomy
Ease & Comfort — A Gentle Self-Care Toolkit, Inspired by Ortho-Bionomy
A free, hands-on introduction to five simple, gentle techniques anyone can use to ease tension and support their nervous system — no experience necessary. Drawing on Ortho-Bionomy principles, the session focuses on working with the body rather than against it, helping people build a small, sustainable self-care toolkit they can use anytime, anywhere. Each attendee will take home a printed guide to the techniques covered.
Time and venue: 6-7pm, Wānaka Community Hub meeting room, 34 McDougall Street. You can also find this event on 23rd, 30th.
To register: Email ob@juliafast.nz
Facilitator Website: Julia Fast
Free Gym class by Fit Collective
Come and attend any of our small group classes or yoga. One per person free during mental Health awareness week.
Move Your Body. Strengthen Your Mind. This Mental Health Awareness Week, join our Strength, Cardio, Yoga and Women Only classes. Exercise boosts mood, reduces stress, builds strength and confidence, and supports a healthier body and mind.
Time and venue: Between 12th-18th October at The Fit Collective, 5 Gordon Road.
To register: https://tbg.gymmasteronline.com/portal/membership/146259dafe67cdd733d0445f3efb9b11
Facilitator Website: TFC Wanaka gym and small group training
Free Gym Class by Snap Fitness Wanaka
Moving your body can do amazing things for your mental health and we want to help get more of our community moving and discovering how great exercise can be! That is why we are offering free classes from 12th-18th October PLUS a free 5 session pass for mental health month! See our class schedule below. Bookings are essential as space is limited. Monday: 6am - Circuit, 2pm - Senior Circuit, Tuesday: 7pm - Stretch and Mobility, Wednesday: 6am - Circuit, Thursday: 6am - Strength and Conditioning, 9:30am - Stretch and Mobility, Friday: 8am - Senior Circuit.
Not a class person but looking for a warm welcoming gym where you can work on your health and fitness in a supportive environment, come try us out and with a 5 day free trial, available for all of October! To sign up for a 5 day please visit us during staffed hours.
5 day trial cards can be activated anytime during October, but once activated must be used within two weeks.
Time and venue: Between 12th-18th October at Snap Fitness Wānaka, 5/1 Sir Tim Wallis Drive.
To register: to book in for a class please either email wanaka@snapfitness.com or call/text 02108566026.
Facilitator Website: 24/7 Gym in Wanaka, Otago - Snap Fitness New Zealand
Saturday 17 October
Community Ukulele sing-a-long by The Wanaka Ukulele Band
Music is therapy. Bring your uke (or other instrument) if you have one, there will be some to borrow if you don't. Well known songs with easy chords will be put up on the screen. All abilities welcome, you can also come if you just want to sing and don't play. All welcome.
Time and venue: 11am-12pm Wānaka Community Hub auditorium, 34 McDougall Street.
To register: victoriahill246@gmail.com
Facilitator Website: Wanaka Ukuleles – playing and singing for Wanaka entertainment
Grow Wānaka Saturday Morning Bee & Tea - Volunteering
Grow Wānaka Community Garden Working Bee finishing with morning tea and a share of the collective harvest.
Time and venue: Every Saturday 9:30am-12pm, Outlet Road, Wānaka 9305.
Facilitator Website: HOME | Grow Wanaka | Wānaka Community Garden
Hāwea Food Forest Working Bee & Morning Tea - Volunteering
Join us for a morning of gardening and harvesting. Enjoy a shared morning tea. Take home some veggies, grow food resilience and learn new skills. Tools are provided. All welcome.
Time and venue: Saturdays 10am- 1pm, 130 Domain Rd, Lake Hāwea.
Facilitator Website: (6) Hawea Food Forest | Facebook
Parkrun
Parkrun is a global, free, fun and friendly weekly 5K timed community event for walkers, joggers and runners. Note you can walk, jog, run, push a buggy, bring a dog but no bikes. We have a coffee after at Edgewater - they kindly reserve us a long table inside by the pavillian, so lots of opportunity for chats with others.
Time and venue: Every Saturday at 8am from a start/finish in Wanaka Station Park, off Mt Aspiring Road at the edge of town.
To register: Click here to register for parkrun.
Facilitator Website: home | Wanaka parkrun | Wanaka parkrun
Free Gym class by Fit Collective
Come and attend any of our small group classes or yoga. One per person free during mental Health awareness week.
Move Your Body. Strengthen Your Mind. This Mental Health Awareness Week, join our Strength, Cardio, Yoga and Women Only classes. Exercise boosts mood, reduces stress, builds strength and confidence, and supports a healthier body and mind.
Time and venue: Between 12th-18th October at The Fit Collective, 5 Gordon Road.
To register: https://tbg.gymmasteronline.com/portal/membership/146259dafe67cdd733d0445f3efb9b11
Facilitator Website: TFC Wanaka gym and small group training
Free Gym Class by Snap Fitness Wanaka
Moving your body can do amazing things for your mental health and we want to help get more of our community moving and discovering how great exercise can be! That is why we are offering free classes from 12th-18th October PLUS a free 5 session pass for mental health month! See our class schedule below. Bookings are essential as space is limited. Monday: 6am - Circuit, 2pm - Senior Circuit, Tuesday: 7pm - Stretch and Mobility, Wednesday: 6am - Circuit, Thursday: 6am - Strength and Conditioning, 9:30am - Stretch and Mobility, Friday: 8am - Senior Circuit.
Not a class person but looking for a warm welcoming gym where you can work on your health and fitness in a supportive environment, come try us out and with a 5 day free trial, available for all of October! To sign up for a 5 day please visit us during staffed hours.
5 day trial cards can be activated anytime during October, but once activated must be used within two weeks.
Time and venue: Between 12th-18th October at Snap Fitness Wānaka, 5/1 Sir Tim Wallis Drive.
To register: to book in for a class please either email wanaka@snapfitness.com or call/text 02108566026.
Facilitator Website: 24/7 Gym in Wanaka, Otago - Snap Fitness New Zealand
Monday 19 October
Singing Class by Anna Van Riel (Nook Road Productions)
TUNE UP YOUR NERVOUS SYSTEM
Join Hāwea's vocal practitioner Anna van Riel for a fun and interactive vocal mechanics session.
Designed to equip you with a mechanical toolbox on the voice that supports you to activate the vagus nerve and tap into the parasympathetic nervous system to spark joy and ease in the body and mind.
No singing experience necessary. Arrive well-hydrated. Bring a friend.
Time and venue: 10.30am-12.30pm, Wānaka Community Hub auditorium, 34 McDougall Street.
To register: https://events.humanitix.com/sing-wanaka
Facilitator Website: Nook Road Productions - Vocal Coaching, Workshops & Mentoring
Paws for mental health by Community Link
Dogs play a powerful role in supporting our mental and physical health and wellbeing. Come along to The Hub to hang out with a hound from Community Link Outreach Therapy Pet service – brighten your day by having a cuppa with canine companionship and simply enjoy engaging with our volunteers’ beloved friends.
Time and venue: 11:30am-12:30pm, in reception at Wānaka Community Hub, 34 McDougall Street.
To register: No need to register, if you would like to know more, please contact support@communitylink.nz.
Facilitator Website: Community Link Upper Clutha
I-Rest yoga nidra by Sandy Fischer
If you are feeling burnt-out, anxious, struggling with life or need deep rest in your busy day, join Sandy Fischer for iRest Yoga Nidra. A deeply restorative , evidence based guided meditation developed by Dr Richard Miller (Clinical psychologist). iRest combines ancient yogic sleep techniques with modern neuroscience to help rewrite your response to stress.
No experience required. Just lie down, listen and rediscover your innate peace.
Time and venue: 1:30-2:45pm, Wānaka Community Hub auditorium, 34 McDougall Street.
To register: Bring your yoga mat - Booking: text: 0274 156 300
Facilitator Website:
Tuesday 20 October
Group Wanaka Al-anon Family Group
Chats sessions...Is your life affected by someone's drinking...lets catch up and see if we can support you.
Just a small space with some privacy as people can find it difficult.
We assist the community by providing the community with a weekly support group and also one on one if required at no cost except for a contribution if able. We assist when individuals or families whose life have been affected by alcohol, either in the present or if one grow up in this environment.
Time and venue: 11.30am-12.30pm, Wānaka Community Hub manager office, 34 McDougall Street. This event can also be found on 27th.
To register: Contact for more information Robyn or Ann on 027 322 9625, email navelandrob@xtra.co.nz or annsutton@xtra.co.nz
The Story Weaver Grief Circle by Bold Women Speak
How your words and story shape your grief
The Story Weaver Grief Circle is a supportive three-week gathering for people grieving the death of someone they love. Facilitated by grief guide, celebrant, and Bold Women Speak founder Janelle Fletcher, this intimate circle offers a safe space to share stories, feel heard, and honour loss. Participants will explore how the stories they tell about grief shape their experience and discover compassionate ways to hold both loss and love. Open to anyone grieving a baby, child, sibling, parent, grandparent, partner, friend, or loved one, the circle fosters connection, belonging, reflection, understanding, and meaningful community support.
Time and venue: 6.30-8pm, Wānaka Community Hub auditorium, 34 McDougall Street. You can also find this event on 13th and 20th.
To register: Please email janelle@boldwomenspeak.com. To keep this grief circle intimate and sacred, please register with Janelle. A commitment to all 3 nights is ideal and highly recommended for the benefit to your growth and for your best contribution to others.
Facilitator Website: Bold Women Speak | Join the Movement—Speak Up Now
Wednesday 21 October
Discussion panel - 'Why Movement Matters'
Introducing our panel guests: Chuck Simpson, Kim Cadzow, Sue Richard, Caroline Gray, Beth Mackie, and Nikki Atkinson.
Discussion panel about mental health and being active.
Time and venue: 6-8pm Wānaka Community Hub auditorium, 34 McDougall Street.
To register: https://events.humanitix.com/discussion-panel-why-movement-matters-for-mental-health-awareness-month
Panel Host: Penny Batchelor
Guest profile:
Chuck Simpson:
With over 24 years in sport, fitness and endurance coaching, Chuck has built his career around a passion for movement and its impact on wellbeing. A former Penn State cross-country runner and collegiate cyclist, as well as a ski racer, he has worked with athletes at all levels in coaching and performance testing. Now co-owner of FITGym Wānaka with his wife, Bianca, Chuck is passionate about creating an inclusive community where everyone, from beginners and seniors to professional athletes, can experience the physical and mental benefits of moving more.
Kim Cadzow:
My name is Kim Cadzow I'm 24 and I have lived in Wanaka for nearly 10 years. I have always loved sport and exercise At the age of 17 became a personal trainer, currently I am finishing my degree in sports science. I took up road cycling at the age of 19 and became a professional by the age of 21. I have raced in Europe for 5 years and have recently retired from my professional career. I have won 4 national titles, Podiumed at 3 world tour races and came 7th at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. I have had a short but amazing career that had a massive impact on my life.)
Sue Richard:
Sue Richard is a fitness professional, Co-founder of Tribe Team Training, coach and educator with more than 30 years of experience in the health and fitness industry. Passionate about helping people stay active throughout life, she believes exercise supports physical and mental wellbeing, confidence and independence. Sue is also a strong believer in the power of community and the role exercise plays in creating connection, belonging and resilience—helping people live well, feel well and age well.
Caroline Gray:
Caroline Gray is the owner of Northlake Pilates in Wānaka and an experienced Pilates practitioner with a passion for helping people build confidence, connection and trust in their bodies. Her approach to movement goes beyond exercise, encouraging people to develop greater awareness of how they move, what they feel and what their bodies are capable of. Through thoughtful, individualised movement, Caroline believes we can create opportunities for people to feel stronger, more capable and more connected to themselves — both physically and mentally.
Beth Mackie:
A former professional basketball player from Scotland, she represented her country at youth and senior level before moving to Wānaka in 2019. After continuing her playing career with Central Otago and the Otago Gold Rush programme, she turned her passion for basketball towards coaching. As founder and Head Coach of Aspiring Basketball Academy, she now focuses on creating opportunities for young players and supporting the next generation of basketball in Central Otago.
Nikki Atkinson:
I have been working as a Personal Trainer for over 7yrs, have a degree in Sport and Exercise and have also completed qualifications in Obesity and Diabetes management, Female Strength, Pre and Post Natal training. I have worked with everyone from junior elite athletes through to 80yr olds trying to maintain their independence for as long as possible and there is one thing they all have in common, movement brings them joy! Exercising for mental health is something I am deeply passionate about and I look forward to sharing my experience and knowledge as part of this great event!
Blankets & Beanies afternoon tea by Family Works Otago
Knit & Crochet for a cause
An afternoon for connection, community, to create, learn and give.
Come along to create a beanie or peggy square to join into blankets which will be donated back to Community Link for families in need.
Bring your needles or hooks please. We will have some to use.
No yarn needed – we have kindly had a mountain of yarn donated to be used for a good cause!
Can’t knit or crochet and want to try? We can show you!
Afternoon tea provided, feel free to bring a plate of home baking if you’d like.
Time and venue: 1-4pm, Wānaka Community Hub reception, 34 McDougall Street.
To register: amanda.chapman@psotago.org.nz
Facilitator Website: Home » Presbyterian Support Otago
Beyond the Wānaka Highlight Reel by Wellbeing First and Applied Movement
Wānaka is often seen as the perfect picture of wellbeing, yet many people still struggle to find where they fit. This interactive session explores belonging within our community, looking beyond appearances to understand the realities of connection, loneliness, and inclusion. We’ll discuss the expectations of a successful Wānaka lifestyle, why being surrounded by people does not always create meaningful relationships, and how different experiences can shape our sense of belonging. Participants will reflect on their own assumptions, relationships, and community connections, and leave with practical insights and one simple action to strengthen belonging for themselves and those around them.
Time and venue: 5.30-7pm, Wānaka Community Hub meeting room, 34 McDougall Street.
To register: https://events.humanitix.com/beyond-the-wanaka-highlight-reel
Facilitator Website: Wellbeing Expert | Support for Workplace & Individual Wellbeing and Applied Movement
Wanaka Creative Wellbeing
Free creative art sessions for individuals over 17 experiencing health and well-being challenges. Weekly sessions.
Time and venue: 10:30am-1pm at Wānaka Community Hub auditorium, 34 McDougall Street. You can find this session on Fri 23rd, 30th.
To register: Email wanaka@artsenta.org
Facilitator Website: Artsenta | A creative space for tangata whaiora | Supporting wellbeing through creativity
Thursday 22 October
Women’s Embodiment + Breath + Kundalini Activation Workshop by Tawna
This experience is designed to support meaningful, lasting transformation.
If carrying emotional pain, unresolved experiences, chronic stress, or simply feel disconnected from yourself, your body, your truth, this offers a space to gently reconnect.
Time and venue: 6-8.30pm, Wānaka Community Hub meeting room, 34 McDougall Street.
To register: https://events.humanitix.com/somatic-embodiment-and-kundalini-activation-event-for-mental-health-awareness-month
Facilitator Website: https://wanakabody.co.nz/
Social Stroll by MINT
Join us for a relaxed social stroll along the lakefront. All abilities are welcome! Come connect, have a chat, enjoy the fresh air and start your day right with good company.
Time and venue: 9:15-10:15am starting from Station Park. You can also find this event on 29th.
To register: email charlotte.jackson@minttrust.nz for more infromation.
Facilitator Website: MINT | Forging Great Lives
Beach Clean-up by WAI
Come along to our Roy's Bay clean-up and help keep Lake Wānaka’s lakeshore clean and healthy.
Together, we’ll remove litter from the beach and surrounding areas while gathering valuable data through citizen science.
Rubbish collected will be sorted and recorded as part of Sustainable Coastlines’ Litter Intelligence programme.
All welcome. Tamariki / children must be accompanied by an adult.
Time and venue: Registration: 9:50am, time: 10:00am-11:30am at Wānaka Lakefront (by the dinosaur park)
What to bring:
– Gloves
– Weather appropriate clothes
– Sturdy footwear
– Friends, co-workers and whānau
To register: Volunteer Events - WAI Wānaka
Facilitator Website: Home - WAI Wānaka
Kundalini Active Meditation by Lorella
To face and witness our false sense of lack and separation. To find unity within ourselves. To feel to belong. It last a hour plus the opening explanation and closure.
The experience is a journey through four stages:
1 ♡ Shake the body (with conscious breathing, listening and focusing the mind on the present moment -here and now-).
2 ♡ Dance freely with intuitive and inspired attitude (releasing, softening, welcoming any emotion, healing and celebrating with gratitude)
3 ♡ Sit meditation.
4 ♡ Deep relaxation (dropping the body and enjoying inner still).
Finally at home, soul centered and resting in the heart. Realising and embodying "I belong because All is On".
Time and venue: 6-8pm, Wānaka Community Hub auditorium, 34 McDougall Street. You can also find this event on 22nd.
To register: Text 0210596775 or 0039 3495758365 (WhatsApp)
Friday 23 October
Mindfulness with Nature Walk (Wander) by True Sacred Beauty
Take a breath and join me for a truly restorative experience with Nature.
An invitation to slow down and connect with the natural world through all your senses.
This is a chance to experience something fresh, immersive, and deeply restorative. Research shows that mindful time in nature can reduce stress, lift your mood, boost creativity, support your immune system, and help restore balance and a deeper sense of connection with self, others and the natural world.
We'll close our walk with tea and time to share as a group.
This free community event will be guided by Nicki Hanning, from True Sacred Beauty and a certified Forest Bathing Guide.
Please Note: Logistical details will emailed closer to the event as location may change depending on the weather.
Time and venue: 10:30am-12pm (this is an outdoor event)
To register: email nicki@truesacredbeauty.co.nz
Facilitator Website: . – True Sacred Beauty
Ortho-Bionomy
Ease & Comfort — A Gentle Self-Care Toolkit, Inspired by Ortho-Bionomy
A free, hands-on introduction to five simple, gentle techniques anyone can use to ease tension and support their nervous system — no experience necessary. Drawing on Ortho-Bionomy principles, the session focuses on working with the body rather than against it, helping people build a small, sustainable self-care toolkit they can use anytime, anywhere. Each attendee will take home a printed guide to the techniques covered.
Time and venue: 6-7pm, Wānaka Community Hub auditorium, 34 McDougall Street. You can also find this event on 30th.
To register: Email ob@juliafast.nz
Facilitator Website: Julia Fast
Wanaka Creative Wellbeing
Free creative art sessions for individuals over 17 experiencing health and well-being challenges. Weekly sessions.
Time and venue: 10:30am-1pm at Wānaka Community Hub auditorium, 34 McDougall Street. You can find this session on Fri 30th.
To register: Email wanaka@artsenta.org
Facilitator Website: Artsenta | A creative space for tangata whaiora | Supporting wellbeing through creativity
Community Cooking Group
For more than five years, Community Link's Community Cooking Group has been bringing people together around food, conversation, and friendship. Held every second Friday in the commercial kitchen at the Wānaka Community Hub, the group welcomes people of all ages, backgrounds, and cooking abilities. Some participants have been attending since the group began, while others might join just once while passing through town. Current coordinator Diana Manson says the group is as much about connection as it is about cooking. Participants work together to prepare a recipe before sitting down to share lunch.
Time and venue: 11:30am-2pm, Wānaka Community Hub auditorium, 34 McDougall Street.
To register: Email mansondiana@gmail.com
Facilitator Website: Community Link Upper Clutha
Saturday 24 October
Grow Wānaka Saturday Morning Bee & Tea - Volunteering
Grow Wānaka Community Garden Working Bee finishing with morning tea and a share of the collective harvest.
Time and venue: Every Saturday 9:30am-12pm, Outlet Road, Wānaka 9305.
Facilitator Website: HOME | Grow Wanaka | Wānaka Community Garden
Hāwea Food Forest Working Bee & Morning Tea - Volunteering
Join us for a morning of gardening and harvesting. Enjoy a shared morning tea. Take home some veggies, grow food resilience and learn new skills. Tools are provided. All welcome.
Time and venue: Saturdays 10am- 1pm, 130 Domain Rd, Lake Hāwea.
Facilitator Website: (6) Hawea Food Forest | Facebook
Parkrun
Parkrun is a global, free, fun and friendly weekly 5K timed community event for walkers, joggers and runners. Note you can walk, jog, run, push a buggy, bring a dog but no bikes. We have a coffee after at Edgewater - they kindly reserve us a long table inside by the pavillian, so lots of opportunity for chats with others.
Time and venue: Every Saturday at 8am from a start/finish in Wanaka Station Park, off Mt Aspiring Road at the edge of town.
To register: Click here to register for parkrun.
Facilitator Website: home | Wanaka parkrun | Wanaka parkrun
Tuesday 27 October
Group Wanaka Al-anon Family Group
Chats sessions...Is your life affected by someone's drinking...lets catch up and see if we can support you.
Just a small space with some privacy as people can find it difficult.
We assist the community by providing the community with a weekly support group and also one on one if required at no cost except for a contribution if able. We assist when individuals or families whose life have been affected by alcohol, either in the present or if one grow up in this environment.
Time and venue: 11:30am-12:30pm, Wānaka Community Hub manager office, 34 McDougall Street.
To register: Contact for more information Robyn or Ann on 027 322 9625, email navelandrob@xtra.co.nz or annsutton@xtra.co.nz
Wednesday 28 October
Yoga Nidra by Bernadine
Rooted in an ancient yogi technique, this guided meditation is practiced lying down in Savasana. It brings deep, sleep-like rest while the mind stays awake and aware, effectively releasing stress, tension, and anxiety.
Time and venue: 1:30-2:30pm, Wānaka Community Hub meeting room, 34 McDougall Street.
To register: bernadine.balle@gmail.com
Facilitator Website:
Finding Your Fit: Creating the Conditions for Belonging by Applied Movement
Creating the conditions for belonging
What helps you feel comfortable enough to be yourself, connect with others, and experience a genuine sense of belonging? In this interactive 90-minute workshop, precision health and lifestyle coach Claire Akin Smith explores the biology, beliefs, and behaviours that shape connection. Participants will discover the environments where they thrive, examine beliefs about their differences, and explore how certain behaviours can either strengthen or hinder belonging. The focus is on understanding yourself more accurately, appreciating your strengths, and recognising opportunities for positive change. Leave with greater self-awareness, practical insights, and a clear action to support meaningful connection.
Time and venue: 5:30-7pm, Wānaka Community Hub auditorium, 34 McDougall Street.
To register: https://events.humanitix.com/finding-your-fit-creating-the-conditions-for-belonging
Facilitator Website: Applied Movement
Womens Sharing Circle by the Art of Health
55+ WISE WOMENS SHARING CIRCLE – CONNECTION & BELONGING
Menopause often brings with it many life changes, including biological upheaval, changes in mental cognition, career transitions, psycho-spiritual transformation and more, as nature steers us into a brand new stage of life. Western society does little to forewarn or teach women how to navigate this significant life transition, leaving many women feeling alone and confused as they do their best to navigate new and unfamiliar territory.
This sharing circle will provide a safe space for a small group of 55+ post-menopausal women to meet, connect and share their experience of coming to grips with menopause. As we share and listen we discover we are not alone. The circle will be facilitated in a sacred way, providing an opportunity to speak from your heart, and be witnessed with compassion and nonjudgement by others. We will finish with a shared cup of tea.
Time and venue: 6-9pm, Wānaka Community Hub meeting room, 34 McDougall Street.
To register: https://www.emotionalalchemyacademy.com/offers/bqHF6Vuo
Facilitator Website: Transformational Solutions for Optimal Wellbeing
Thursday 29 October
Understanding Your Inner Critic by Open Heart Connections
Why your inner voice isn't your enemy and how to stop letting it run your life.
The most important conversation you'll ever have is the one with yourself. Explore your inner critic, understand its purpose, and learn practical ways to respond with greater awareness and self-compassion.
Time and venue: 6-7:30pm, Wānaka Community Hub meeting room, 34 McDougall Street.
To register: https://www.open-heart-connections.com/events or ronja@open-heart-connections.com
Facilitator Website: Open Heart Connections | Mindfulness coaching & Workshops
Social Stroll by MINT
Join us for a relaxed social stroll along the lakefront. All abilities are welcome! Come connect, have a chat, enjoy the fresh air and start your day right with good company.
Time and venue: 9:15-10:15am starting from Station Park.
To register: email charlotte.jackson@minttrust.nz for more infromation.
Facilitator Website: MINT | Forging Great Lives
Friday 30 October
Ortho-Bionomy
Ease & Comfort — A Gentle Self-Care Toolkit, Inspired by Ortho-Bionomy
A free, hands-on introduction to five simple, gentle techniques anyone can use to ease tension and support their nervous system — no experience necessary. Drawing on Ortho-Bionomy principles, the session focuses on working with the body rather than against it, helping people build a small, sustainable self-care toolkit they can use anytime, anywhere. Each attendee will take home a printed guide to the techniques covered.
Time and venue: 6-7pm, Wānaka Community Hub auditorium, 34 McDougall Street.
To register: Email ob@juliafast.nz
Facilitator Website: Julia Fast
Wanaka Creative Wellbeing
Free creative art sessions for individuals over 17 experiencing health and well-being challenges. Weekly sessions.
Time and venue: 10:30am-1pm at Wānaka Community Hub auditorium, 34 McDougall Street.
To register: Email wanaka@artsenta.org
Facilitator Website: Artsenta | A creative space for tangata whaiora | Supporting wellbeing through creativity
Saturday 31 October
Belonging Begins Within by Tala
A Somatic Workshop for Mental Health Awareness Month
This Mental Health Awareness Month, Belonging Matters invites us to explore what it means to belong to community, each other and ourselves. This experiential workshop explores how stress and trauma are held within the body, creating protective patterns that shape how we experience the world. Through movement, awareness and embodied practices, you’ll learn to recognise where your body holds tension, listen to its innate intelligence and create greater safety, trust and connection within yourself.
Moving through Be Active, Give, Keep Learning, Connect and Take Notice, this workshop is an invitation to come home to your body… because belonging begins within.
Time and venue: 9am - 1pm, Wānaka Community Hub auditorium, 34 McDougall Street.
To register: https://events.humanitix.com/belonging-begins-within
Facilitator Website: Intuitive Wellness | Humanitix
Grow Wānaka Saturday Morning Bee & Tea - Volunteering
Grow Wānaka Community Garden Working Bee finishing with morning tea and a share of the collective harvest.
Time and venue: Every Saturday 9:30am-12pm, Outlet Road, Wānaka 9305.
Facilitator Website: HOME | Grow Wanaka | Wānaka Community Garden
Hāwea Food Forest Working Bee & Morning Tea - Volunteering
Join us for a morning of gardening and harvesting. Enjoy a shared morning tea. Take home some veggies, grow food resilience and learn new skills. Tools are provided. All welcome.
Time and venue: Saturdays 10am- 1pm, 130 Domain Rd, Lake Hāwea.
Facilitator Website: (6) Hawea Food Forest | Facebook
Parkrun
Parkrun is a global, free, fun and friendly weekly 5K timed community event for walkers, joggers and runners. Note you can walk, jog, run, push a buggy, bring a dog but no bikes. We have a coffee after at Edgewater - they kindly reserve us a long table inside by the pavillian, so lots of opportunity for chats with others.
Time and venue: Every Saturday at 8am from a start/finish in Wanaka Station Park, off Mt Aspiring Road at the edge of town.
To register: Click here to register for parkrun.
Facilitator Website: home | Wanaka parkrun | Wanaka parkrun
Disclaimer:
Community Link is proud to coordinate the Mental Health Awareness Month schedule. Each event is independently organised by the hosting organisation. Community Link does not endorse or make any representations regarding the expertise, information, or claims made by participating organisations.
IF YOU NEED HELP NOW:
1737 Need to talk, Freecall or text 1737, 24/7, for support from trained counsellors. www.1737.org.nz
Lifeline 0800 543 354 or text 4357 [HELP]
Family Violence: P: 0800 456 450 | www.areyouok.org.nz
Alcohol Drug Helpline: P: 0800 787 797 / Free text 8681 www.alcoholdrughelp.org.nz
The Lowdown: P: 0800 111 757 / Free text 5626 | www.thelowdown.co.nz
Youthline: P: 0800 376 633 / Free text 234 | www.youthline.co.nz
Depression: P: 0800 1114202 / Free text 4202 | www.depression.org.nz
Suicide Crisis Helpline: P: 0508 828 865 | www.lifeline.org.nz
Women’s Refuge: P: 0800 733 843 | www.womensrefuge.org.nz
Sexuality issues: 0800 688 5463 between 6-9pm | www.outline.org.nz
Your Life Live It: Helpline@yourlifeliveit.com | www.yourlifeliveit.com
0800 WHAT”S UP
Mental Health Emergency Services 0800 467 846