The Freemasons Foundation has generously supported the vital community project to redevelop Harbour Hospice at 7 Shea Terrace, Takapuna, through a substantial contribution towards the new Nurse Call System, and 17 TVs for the redeveloped in-patient and whānau bedrooms.

The redevelopment includes upgraded and purpose-fitted in-patient bedrooms, with care increasing over time from nine to 15 bedrooms, and a specially designed whānau area with two overnight bedrooms. 

The Nurse Call System is a vital piece of in-patient medical equipment which will enable patients to call for assistance by pushing a button or using a pullcord. These systems alert nurses, doctors, and other staff as soon as they’re activated, reducing response times for patients, and improving care.

The Freemason Foundation and Masonic Lodges have a long association with hospice, with Harbour Hospice being supported by local lodges for over a decade. Freemasons Foundation Chairman, Mark Winger, says, “The Foundation has been providing support to the aged-care community since 1956, and in more recent times has helped the hospice movement with the outstanding work they perform. Through our relationship with Harbour Hospice, we became aware of their need for a leading-edge solution for patients to call for assistance. This is a crucial piece of technology, providing valuable support to those in need, giving additional comfort to patients and their families at a challenging time.”

Harbour Hospice is the only specialist end of life care provider for people living in the region, and has been delivering compassionate care and support to patients and their families, free of charge, for over three decades. Today Harbour Hospice cares for over 1,300 patients a year, with one in three people who die in the community receiving care from hospice.

Demand for palliative care across the Harbour Hospice region is expected to grow by 50% in the next 14 years, and 90% in the next 40 years. 

Stage 1 of construction, which includes the installation of the new Nurse Call System and the 17 TVs, will be finished by the end of this year when the inpatient unit will be reopened, with the full project scheduled to be completed in early 2023.

To find out how you can help, and to learn more about the project, visit harbourhospice.org.nz/shore-project/ or email Capital Campaign Manager, Kate Thompson, on Kate.Thompson@harbourhospice.org.nz.