Celebrating our incredible nurses
Published: May 12, 2025
This International Nurses Day (12 May), we’re celebrating the incredible mahi of our nurses at Pathways and Real.
Let’s look at some of our incredible nurses and the impact they make in our services across the motu.
Joshua – Registered Nurse, Wellington
Health and Wellbeing Mobile
What I enjoy the most about my role is helping tāngata whai ora I see and the variety of life journeys they share. We are privileged to be in a trusted position where people will openly share personal information. I am always amazed by the incredible strength that our tāngata whai ora have in the face of adversity. Being able to support our tāngata whai ora and see how good support can make a positive impact can have, is very inspiring and satisfying.
Nurses play an integral role in health promotion and support. We provide guidance to kaimahi and always strive toward ensuring that best practice is maintained for our tāngata whai ora. Nurses have a broad skill set and are utilised here in a range of ways, however generally we strive toward holistic practice. I like to think of this as working alongside the person, rather than working for them.
Lavelle – registered nurse in Christchurch
Peer-led Acute Alternative
I am a registered nurse working at an acute alternative service of Pathways in Christchurch. I’ve been working with Pathways since last November, and I’m truly humbled to be working alongside peers and supporting tāngata whai ora and taiohi in their journey to recovery, that’s one of my best accomplishments. We’ve created a home-like space with thoughtful touches—like having a chef on site—so our guests and their whānau feel welcome and comfortable. I love working alongside a great team who genuinely care about people and their wellbeing.
Monique – Registered Nurse, Auckland
Auckland Health & Wellbeing
As part of the Health and Wellbeing Team, I am blessed to work alongside the tāngata whai ora both in our Housing and Recovery Services, and in their own homes.
As the nurse in the team, I get to facilitate events with a health promotion focus, be a smokefree champion, support the tāngata whai ora with their health challenges, and walk the journey with the tāngata whai ora, supporting them as they strive to meet their personal goals, all with a holistic view (and a peer lens).
Not only do I get to do this, but I also get to work with amazing kaimahi who have a passion and heart for people living with mental health challenges.
Pathways is an organisation who goes the extra mile. It is not just a job; it is from the heart.
Chelsea – Registered Nurse, Hamilton
Hamilton Mobile
What I enjoy most about being a nurse at Pathways is how diverse and creative my role can be. One day I could be helping someone advocate for themselves at the GP, the next I am supporting a tāngata whai ora and their whānau through the process of getting placed into rest home and then educating kaimahi about the impacts of Diabetes on the body.
In my region, Pathways nurses are few and far between and all come from very varied clinical backgrounds, not just mental health and addictions. This is a huge asset, as we can provide an alternative outlook to a situation that may not have even been considered. Helping people is the basis of our profession, so please if you ever need support reach out to our amazing nurses!
Rose – Registered Nurse, Whanganui
Youth Primary Mental Health
Last year I made the decision to leave the hospital and make the shift over to the Real- Whetu Marewa team in Whanganui, where I am privileged to work with the youth in Whanganui. One of the most fulfilling aspects of my job is building strong relationships with the youth and their whānau. I am lucky to be part of our equine therapy group, where young people learn different strategies for self-management and experience the calming presence of horses. This activity not only helped them manage their anxiety but also provided a unique experience they wouldn’t have had otherwise.
In addition to equine therapy, we’ve started a movement group and a craft group, offering the youth opportunities to engage in meaningful ways and fostering a sense of community and belonging. The movement group has been instrumental in helping participants develop healthy coping mechanisms through physical activity, while the craft group allows them to express themselves creatively and build confidence. I also greatly enjoy my one-on-one appointments, where I can provide personalized support and build deeper connections with each young person.
Here, I have the unique opportunity to engage with young people in a more flexible and creative manner, allowing me to truly connect with them on a personal level. One of the most rewarding aspects of my role is working with an incredible team of dedicated professionals who share my passion for making a difference. Together, we foster trust and understanding, helping young people navigate their challenges and discover their strengths. This role has not only allowed me to make a meaningful impact on their lives but has also enriched my own journey, reinforcing the importance of community, collaboration, and compassion in mental health care.
Vika – Registered Nurse, Tauranga
Housing & Recovery
Tēnā koutou katoa, ko Vika Puliuvea ahau. I provide clinical support, advocate for both staff and tāngata whai ora, and help create a space where every voice is heard and valued. What I love most about working at Pathways is being part of something bigger — a whānau that leads with purpose, care, and a strong belief in people’s ability to grow. For me, it’s all about honouring mana motuhake and walking alongside people in a way that uplifts them.
Gabriel – Registered Nurse, Auckland
House & Recovery and Sub-Acute Service
My role for Pathways as a clinician is to mainly support our tāngata whai ora with their recovery and assist in their transition back to their community. I usually work with tāngata whai ora to develop goals and care plans in coordination with their clinical teams. I also support them to adhere in their medication treatment plans providing education if need be.
