WellSouth – primary care mental health and wellbeing services

Services available in Waitaki: 

• Access & Choice – Tōku Oranga
  Free wellbeing support delivered through participating GP practices. Services are short, practical appointments focused on improving mental wellbeing and coping skills. Access & Choice includes:

  • Health Improvement Practitioners (HIPs):
    Registered health professionals who offer brief support for stress, anxiety, low mood, sleep issues, and behaviour change. Appointments are typically 15–30 minutes and may be offered on the same day.
  • Health Coaches:
    Support people to build confidence and self‑management skills, particularly for long‑term health conditions such as diabetes, asthma, gout, high blood pressure, and lifestyle‑related wellbeing goals.
  • Community Support Workers:
    Non‑clinical support to help people navigate housing, employment, Work and Income, and other community services. Access is via GP referral.

• Brief Intervention Mental Health Service
  Short‑term mental health support provided through general practice for people experiencing mild to moderate mental distress. Focuses on early intervention and practical strategies.

All services are free, and access is generally through a GP, practice nurse, or same‑day referral within a participating medical practice. Availability depends on which services are hosted by individual practices.