28 August 2026, Issue 1325
30 years strong Three decades of connection, purpose and hope are being celebrated next week as Tauranga’s Turning Point Trust/ Te Taiope Huringanui marks its 30th anniversary. Based at the Tauranga Historic Village, Turning Point was established in 1996 and now supports hundreds of people who
have experienced mental illness, addiction and/or disability. For Nicki Hockings, intake co-ordinator and Sage team lead (pictured), the heart of Turning Point is its people. “People support each other based out of their own lived experience,” she said. The non-clinical service offers creative,
horticultural and vocational programmes, along with peer support where people draw on their own lived experience to help others. Members are encouraged to find their own pathway – whether that means employment, study, volunteering, developing skills or simply rebuilding confidence and
connection. The 30th anniversary will be celebrated with five days of member-led events from August 31 to September 4, including a hangi, picnic, movie and disco. The milestone comes as Turning Point prepares to embark on a new adventure. Read more on page 13 . Photo / Kelly O’Hara