Following years of community support, the new Nurse Maude Hospice has officially opened in Christchurch. The first patients will be admitted on Wednesday (17 June) to a remarkable new hospice built with support from fundraising, creating a modern, purpose-built facility designed to support patients and families.
The new Nurse Maude Hospice, which opens on 17 June, has been funded through the generosity of donors, hospice shops, charitable trusts, major gifts, bequests and reserves, representing years of community support for end-of-life care across Canterbury. It is the only one in Christchurch.
The opening also offers a moment to reflect on what hospice care means for the families who rely on it during some of life's most difficult times. Sarah Carr, whose husband Kevin "Chalky" Carr was cared for by Nurse Maude before his death, can speak about the compassion shown to her family, the comfort and support they received, and the lasting relationships formed with staff, including Nurse Maude Director of Medicine Dr Julia Holyoake. Just six weeks after losing Chalky, Sarah's mother also came into Nurse Maude's care, deepening the family's connection with the service.
Chalky, remembered by many as the former All Blacks Logistics Manager and a Christchurch earthquake hero, dedicated much of his life to helping others. Together, Sarah and Chalky established the Chalky Carr Trust, which raised more than NZD 500,000 to support people affected by cancer, with the backing of high-profile supporters including Sam Whitelock and Gemma McCaw. When the trust was wound up, its remaining funds were gifted to Nurse Maude Hospice, helping ensure Chalky's legacy of generosity and service continues to support others.
Louise Zacest, Chief Executive of Nurse Maude, said the new hospice has been designed to provide specialist care for patients of all ages in a warm, family-focused environment. Among its most distinctive features are purpose-built facilities for children and young people receiving palliative care, including age-appropriate bedrooms, personalised spaces, interactive technology that allows patients to stay connected with friends and family, and accommodation that enables families to remain close and stay overnight.
“The facility also includes what are believed to be among the most advanced bariatric hospice facilities in New Zealand. Permanent ceiling hoists allow patients to be moved safely and comfortably without the need for multiple staff lifts or mobile equipment, while specialised bathing facilities provide greater dignity and comfort for patients with complex needs,” Zacest said.
Landscaped gardens wrap around the hospice, creating accessible outdoor spaces where patients and whānau can enjoy fresh air without leaving the site. Every patient room opens directly onto the gardens, while a central courtyard provides a sheltered and peaceful gathering space.
Family connection has been central to the hospice design. Every patient room includes a day bed so loved ones can stay overnight, and dedicated whānau spaces provide cooking facilities, quiet areas and places for rest and reflection.
Zacest emphasised the importance of Māori tikanga in the building process.
“The hospice has been developed in partnership with Te Taumata Tapu o Ngāi Tūāhuriri, embedding tikanga, wairua and whanaungatanga throughout both the building and model of care. Māori design narratives, pou, symbolic pathways and traditional patterns representing protection, connection and life journeys have been incorporated throughout the facility, helping create an environment that is welcoming, culturally safe and grounded in dignity.”
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