About Mid North Refuge – Whakaruruhau o Kaikohekohe (MNR)
Kia ora and welcome to Mid North Refuge – Whakaruruhau o Kaikohekohe.
We are a dedicated, specialist family violence support service providing a safe haven, advocacy, and holistic care for wāhine (women), tamariki (children), and whānau across Northland. Previously serving our community for many years as Mid North Women’s Aid and Refuge (MNWAR), our heart, our mission, and our unwavering dedication to our people remain exactly the same.
Our Mission & Core Values:
Our core mission is to empower individuals and families to live lives free from all forms of violence, abuse, and oppression.
Operating within a trauma-informed and strengths-based framework, we work alongside those who are vulnerable and at-risk to restore their safety, dignity, and independence. Our mahi (work) is guided by the principles of:
- Manaakitanga: Showing deep respect, generosity, and care for the mana of every person who walks through our doors.
- Whakawhanaungatanga: Building meaningful, trusted connections with our clients, their whānau, and our wider community.
- Self-Determination: Supporting survivors to make their own positive, safe, and self-determined choices for their future.
The Meaning Behind Our Name:
Our name represents a deeply meaningful promise to everyone we walk alongside:
- Whakaruruhau means to provide a safe haven, a shelter, and a protective space. It reflects our commitment to wrapping those we serve in safety and support as they heal and rebuild their lives.
- Kaikohekohe proudly roots us in our local land, our history, and our people, showing our pride in serving Kaikohe and the wider Mid North region.
Our Regional Reach & Services:
We understand the unique challenges faced by families in both isolated rural areas and populated urban spaces. Our services span the Mid North region of New Zealand, stretching from Waipoua Forest and the Hokianga through to Kaeo and the Towai area—including all of the communities, valleys, and places in between.
Wherever you are in our region, we are here to support you. Our core services include:
- 24/7 Crisis Line: Immediate, confidential support when you need it most.
- Secure Emergency Safehouse: A safe, supportive, and warm environment for women and children escaping immediate danger.
- Safety Planning & Advocacy: Practical assistance with safety plans, protection orders, housing, and navigating government agencies.
- Dedicated Education Programmes: Specialist programmes designed to help women and children understand family violence, heal from trauma, and build resilience.
Collaborative Community Support:
We believe that keeping families safe is a shared community effort. We work collaboratively with local communities, health providers, government agencies, schools, and partner organisations to address the root causes of vulnerability and foster a safe, resilient, and thriving neighbourhood.
Our passionate team of kaimahi (staff) combines experienced professionals and emerging leaders in social services and advocacy, all driven by a shared vision of a violence-free future for all.
We are here for you, always:
If you or someone you know is experiencing family violence and needs support, please call our 24/7 confidential, free crisis line on 0800 REFUGE (0800 733 843).
