Empowering people with intellectual disabilities to live fulfilling, self-directed lives grounded in dignity, culture, and belonging.
He tangata, he tangata, he tangata
Nau Mai ki
Te Whare Ngakau Trust
(Welcome to Te Whare Ngakau Trust)
Te Whare Ngakau Trust (The Spirit Within) supports people with intellectual disabilities to live meaningful lives in a safe, respectful, and culturally grounded home environment. We believe every person deserves to be valued, heard, and supported to live life on their own terms.
Established in 1998, with residential services opening in 1999 following the closure of the Templeton Centre, Te Whare Ngakau Trust is a registered charitable trust governed by a Board of Trustees. We currently provide 24‑hour residential support to people with intellectual disabilities across the Canterbury region.
He kāinga mō te oranga tonutanga
– A Home for Life
From the very beginning, Te Whare Ngakau Trust has held a clear and enduring vision: a home for life. This means a place where people can choose to stay for as long as they wish, supported by consistent care, trusted relationships, and strong community connections.
It is a home where the men we support live with dignity, feel valued, and are encouraged to actively belong and contribute within their community.
BI-CULTURAL
Person-Centred Care
Te Whare Ngakau Trust is a bi‑cultural service delivery provider that recognises and responds to the diverse cultural identities and needs of the people we support.
Working in partnership with families, whānau, and advocates, we are committed to person‑centred support that:
- Upholds individual rights and choice
- Strengthens cultural identity
- Encourages learning and personal growth
- Supports meaningful participation in the wider community
Whether you need a little support – or a bit more
– we tailor your living plan to you.
What Guides Te Whare Ngakau
What Guides Te Whare Ngakau
Enabling Good
Lives principles
Tiriti o Waitangi
– Enhanced Principles
Te Whare Tapa Whā
health and wellbeing model
Together, these frameworks ensure holistic, respectful, and empowering support.
OUR
Support Services
We provide tailored, individualised support, including:
Daily Living Support
- Assistance with everyday routines while promoting independence
Personal Support
- Respectful support with personal care, health, and wellbeing
Independence & Life Skills
- Building confidence, capability, and decision‑making skills
Community Connection
- Encouraging participation in social, recreational, cultural, and vocational activities
Individualised Support Plans
- Personalised plans reflecting each person’s goals, strengths, and aspirations
WHAT WE OFFER AT
Te Whare Ngākau
- A stable and safe home environment
- Respect for routines, preferences, and personal space
- A dedicated, caring, and consistent support team
- Opportunities to grow, learn, work, volunteer, and connect
- A balanced lifestyle that supports independence while providing care
- A genuine sense of belonging and contribution
WHY CHOOSE
Te Whare Ngakau Trust?
Whānau and individuals choose Te Whare Ngakau
Trust because we offer:
- Warm, respectful, person‑centred care
- A true home for life
- Culturally responsive and whānau‑friendly support
- A calm, positive, and inclusive environment
- Open and clear communication with whānau
- A strong commitment to helping people live full, meaningful lives
Get In touch
Contact Us
