Updates in 2026

manager — Sun, 08 Feb 2026 22:46:55 +0000

Kia ora and warm greetings from the team at Shore Trust!

We’re pleased to share a summary of what has been happening over the past few months and what lies ahead for our community and organisation.

The Shore Trust Annual General Meeting (AGM) was held on Nov 2025, and the minutes were shared with our whānau, staff, and stakeholders in January 2026. Following that, Shore Trust’s audited financial accounts are now publicly accessible on the Charities Services website, reflecting our commitment to transparency and good governance.

Sector Update – Disability System Changes

Significant changes continue across the New Zealand disability support sector. The disability support funding model has been undergoing reform since December 2025, with services transitioning into a new framework under Disability Support Services (DSS) and the Ministry of Social Development (MSD). These changes focus on standardising access, strengthening planning, and aligning funding with outcomes. In addition, the New Zealand Disability Strategy 2026-2030 has been launched, setting a renewed direction on education, employment, health, housing, and justice for disabled people, oriented around human rights and equity. Government agencies, including Whaikaha, are now beginning implementation planning and monitoring progress.

Community and Whānau Engagement

Last year in August, we hosted our first Family Forum, bringing together residents’ families and supporters in a warm and open space for engagement and feedback. We’re excited to confirm that our second Family Forum is planned for mid-June 2026, with invitations and details to be circulated soon. These gatherings are vital opportunities for us to stay connected and accountable to the people we serve.

Team Growth and Recruitment

We are delighted to share that our recruitment efforts have been successful, we’ve welcomed three new employees into the Shore Trust team. Their skills and passion strengthen our capacity to provide safe, person-centred care across both homes.

We also welcome a new resident who has recently joined our Nile Road house — a valued addition to our community.

Sector Support and Learning

On 5th Feb 2026, our February team meeting, we were privileged to have Lydia Starr from People First NZ speak with our team. Lydia’s insights on lived experience and leadership were invaluable, and we’re pleased to share that she will be extending her engagement by joining residents’ meetings for further conversations.

Governance Update

Last year we said farewell to two long-serving board members and welcomed two new directors to the Trustee Company Board. Their broad expertise strengthens our governance and strategic direction. We are in the process of updating our website to reflect these changes.

Thank you for being part of our extended Shore Trust whānau. We look forward to our ongoing work together as we continue to grow, serve, and advocate for the rights and wellbeing of disabled people and their families.

Ngā mihi nui,
Team at Shore Trust

Shore Trust News – August 2025

manager — Mon, 11 Aug 2025 22:49:49 +0000

Ngā mihi mahana ki a koutou katoa
(Warm greetings to you all)

Shore Trust News – August 2025

Across Aotearoa, the disability and community support sector are changing and Shore Trust is ready. With deep roots in our community, strong relationships, and a commitment to putting people first, we are well-placed to navigate these shifts and keep delivering the quality care and connection our residents and whānau deserve. Shore Trust team continue to deliver a high quality of care and support and making sure people are connected, engaged and happy.

House Leader Appointments
We are pleased to announce that we have finalised recruitment for our two House Leader positions, ensuring that each home now has dedicated leadership.

- Rachel Mains is leading our Nile Road home, bringing a wealth of experience from her role at Spectrum Care and her personal insights from supporting her own family member with a disability.

- Lorenzo Abellera joins Belmont Terrace, with a nursing background and leadership experience at Agape Trust and Mt Tabor Trust. His enthusiasm for fostering a supportive and empowering environment is already making a positive impact.

Welcome Back Clare Tyler
We are delighted to welcome back Clare Tyler as our Finance and Office Manager. Clare previously worked with Shore Trust, making a significant contribution to our financial processes before leaving to complete her studies. She now returns with enhanced skills, fresh perspectives, and the same dedication and professionalism we so valued.

Resident Activities and Community Engagement
Over recent months, residents have enjoyed a variety of activities, including arts and crafts, community art groups, exercise programmes, swimming, kapa haka, and music at home with Gemo. Our volunteer nutritionist has also been facilitating menu planning sessions to support healthy choices. At Nile Road, we currently have one vacancy and are receiving referrals through Kaikaranga.

Upcoming Funding Changes
The disability sector is transitioning from Ministry of Health contracts to the Whaikaha – Ministry of Disabled People funding model under the DSS Residential Provider Panel. From 1 December 2025, all providers must be part of this panel to continue receiving funding. Shore Trust has submitted its application and is well-prepared for this change, with our rights-based, community-focused approach aligning strongly with the new national service standards.