At Hospice Whanganui, providing compassionate, specialist palliative care doesn’t happen by accident – it takes reflection, planning, and a strong, connected team.
Last year, our clinical team stepped away from the day-to-day demands of hospice care and gathered for an annual planning day at the Laird Park Bowling Club. The day created space to reflect on the year that had been, strengthen team connections, and set clear goals for the year ahead.
Led by the Clinical Services Management Team, annual plans were developed for the Nursing, Health Care Assistant (HCA), and Whānau Support teams, as well as for the Director of Integrated Services – all aligning with the organisation’s strategic objectives. Each plan focused on identifying priorities, strengthening service delivery, and ensuring we continue to meet the evolving needs of patients and whānau across our region.
Several key themes emerged.
A strong desire to deepen cultural competency was evident across the team, including enhancing te reo Māori and strengthening understanding of te ao Māori. This commitment reflects Hospice Whanganui’s dedication to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and to delivering patient- and whānau-led care grounded in partnership, respect, and mana.
Professional development was another clear focus. Team members expressed a strong commitment to ongoing learning and growth – strengthening their skills to ensure patients and whānau receive safe, compassionate, and high-quality care.
Alongside strategic planning, the day intentionally included time for connection and rest. Working in specialist palliative care requires emotional resilience, and creating space for laughter, conversation, and even a friendly game of bowls was an important reminder that strong teams are built not only through shared goals, but through shared moments.
The retreat also provided valuable opportunities for relationship-building, including networking with local social workers and strengthening collaborative connections across services.
Importantly, the retreat allowed space for something equally vital – pause. As Teri shared, creating time for reflection and team connection is essential. It enables staff to acknowledge challenges, celebrate achievements, and contribute meaningfully to shaping the future of Hospice Whanganui.
Through intentional planning and shared goals, our team continues to build a service that honours dignity, choice, and compassionate care for every patient and whānau we support.