Need Help?
Are you in crisis? Need immediate support? Please see a list of support providers that may be able to help you.

NEEDLE EXCHANGE ONLINE.
The New Zealand Needle Exchange Programme is a nationwide programme funded by the Ministry of Health. Established in the late 1980s, it is one of New Zealand’s most successful public health programmes.
New Zealand has led the world in the development of peer-based and peer-led needle exchange programmes, with an approach that is evidenced to be highly effective and subsequently has been replicated in many parts of the world. We now distribute over 3 million needles and syringes each year through a national network of dedicated outlets stretching from Kaitaia to Invercargill and a comprehensive network of pharmacies.
Emergency Contacts and Support.
In Crisis?
Here are some steps to take If there is immediate danger:
Worried about your own safety?
Call 111 Now
Go to your nearest hospital emergency department.
Call your local Mental Health Crisis Team: Canterbury: 0800 920 092 (operates 24/7).
Worried about someone else’s safety?
Call 111 Now
Stay with them until help arrives.
Remove any dangerous objects and ensure your own safety.
Stay calm, listen without judgment, and let them know you care.
Steps to Seek Help: (Non Crisis)
Your GP (family doctor) is a good starting point for assessing and managing mental health.
They can provide referrals for free counselling or community mental health services.
For virtual GP appointments contact Practice Plus: https://practiceplus.nz
Helplines for Immediate Support
Available 24/7 unless otherwise specified.
General Support
Need to Talk?: Free call or text | |
Lifeline: | 0800 543 354 or free text "Help" to 4357 |
Healthline: | |
Samaritans Aotearoa NZ: | |
Depression & Anxiety Helpline: | 0800 111 757 or free text 4202 |
Suicide Crisis Helpline: |
For Tamariki and Rangatahi (Youth)
Youthline: | 0800 376 633 or free text 234 |
0800 What’s Up?: | 0800 942 8787 Phone: 11:00am – 11:00pm |
Webchat: 10:30am – 11:00pm | |
The Lowdown: | 0800 111 757 or free text 5626 |
Webchat: |
Specific Needs Helplines:
Alcohol and Drug Helpline: | 0800 787 797 or free text 8681 |
Māori Line: | 0800 787 798 | Pasifika Line: 0800 787 799 |
Family Drug Support NZ: | |
PlunketLine: | |
Rape Crisis: | |
OUTline (LGBTQIA+): | |
Women’s Refuge Crisis Line: | |
Shakti Crisis Line (Migrant & Refugee Women): | |
Refugees as Survivors: | |
Rural Support: | |
Victim Support: |
