Community Link: Wānaka’s Support Hub

Helping your team and our town navigate change via connection and care.

As Wānaka continues to grow, so does the need for services that can help people navigate change, whether they’re new to Wānaka, managing a life transition, or simply feeling the pressures of living.

Community Link is one of those services—and for businesses, it’s more than just a place to refer people in crisis. It’s a trusted local partner in supporting wellbeing and contributing to a more connected, resilient Wānaka.

We spoke with Kate Murray, Community Link’s Manager, about the changing needs in the town and how local employers can play a practical role in supporting both staff and the wider community.

What is Community Link and where can you find them?

From its base on McDougall Street, Community Link offers support however it’s needed, whether it be drop in, call, book a home visit, or connect online.

The kaupapa is simple: to help people navigate change, whether starting fresh in a new place, facing financial stress, or managing health and family needs, with dignity, care, and local insight.

Why does wellbeing matter in the workplace?

Wellbeing challenges aren’t always visible—but they’re real. With the cost of housing and living continuing to outpace wage growth, people are often forced to choose between essentials like heating, groceries, medical or after-school care.

When people are feeling stress at home, it absolutely flows into the workplace. Helping people stay well and stay local benefits the whole community.

Employers who recognise this link are better placed to support staff, improve retention, and strengthen workplace culture. Community Link plays a key role by providing early, practical support that helps people stay afloat, stay well, and stay engaged.

What kind of support does Community Link offer?

Support often begins with connection. For those new to town—whether arriving from overseas or elsewhere in Aotearoa—Community Link offers practical guidance to help people settle in smoothly. This might include immigration clinics, referrals to English language classes, or help navigating local services and access to community groups.

Support can also be very tangible: food parcels, firewood, medical vouchers, transport to appointments, or help enrolling with a GP—meeting immediate physical and health needs. For others, it might look like a volunteer-prepared meal or a warm invitation to the community kitchen or morning tea—building social connection and emotional wellbeing.

While the service supports a broad cross-section of the community, it has become especially valuable for:

New arrivals seeking guidance and connection
Long-time locals navigating changes in health, housing, or income
Working families and individuals under financial or emotional pressure

Around 50% of those accessing food bank services have two working parents. It’s not about people not working—it’s about people making ends meet. Our goal is to provide practical help early—so people can stay strong, feel empowered, and continue building their lives here.

How businesses can make a difference

Local businesses are key to building a strong, supportive community. Here’s how employers can help their teams, and Wānaka, thrive:

Create a culture of care
Open, honest conversations about wellbeing can break down stigma and make it easier for people to ask for support. Managers and leaders set the tone for this kind of workplace culture. Take the time to really understand how people are.
Connect your team with Community Link
Encourage employees to seek support early, or contact us (Community Link) as the employee to discuss the situation. Community Link takes a personal, solution-focused approach to provide practical help before small challenges become bigger issues.
Partner with purpose
Businesses can contribute in many ways—whether it’s donating funds, volunteering time, or working alongside Community Link on projects that address local challenges like heating, housing or access to services and transport.

Looking out for each other, in both work and in life

Wānaka is a special place with a community that’s growing fast—bringing both opportunities and challenges. People love living here, but rising costs mean that for some, staying isn’t easy. It’s not as simple as “if you can’t afford to live here, why don’t you leave?” Many have deep roots, families, and dreams tied to this place.

Businesses can make a real difference by partnering with Community Link, helping their people feel supported and connected, and ensuring Wānaka remains a place where everyone can belong and thrive.

Our community values taking the time to understand each other and genuinely look out for one another. As Wānaka grows, holding onto that spirit becomes even more important.

Key Takeaways

Know the name: Make Community Link your go-to local wellbeing and referral hub.
Act early: Refer staff at the first sign of pressure or challenges, not just in crisis situations.
Partner up: Volunteer time, donate resources, or collaborate on community projects.
Invest in people: Support your team’s wellbeing to boost focus, loyalty, and resilience.
Champion community wellbeing: Play an active role in making Wānaka a thriving place for everyone.