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Alcohol harms whānau

Alcohol harms our whānau, but small, everyday changes protect the people we love.

At home, at work, at gatherings, and in everyday routines, alcohol can impact our mood, relationships, safety, and wellbeing. These harms are preventable, and support is close by.

Myth Vs Fact

Myth: “Having a few drinks helps us connect as a whānau.”
Fact: Alcohol can create tension, misunderstandings, and changes in behaviour, often affecting the people closest to us.

Myth: “It’s fine if everyone drinks a little at gatherings.”
Fact: Alcohol-free homes and events are safer, calmer, and more welcoming for tamariki, kaumātua, and guests.

Myth: “Drinking is part of relaxing after mahi.”
Fact: Alcohol often worsens stress, affects sleep, and makes the next day harder.

Myth: “It’s not a problem if I can still function.”
Fact: Even light or moderate drinking can impact mood, relationships, energy, and hauora.

Myth: “Alcohol brings people together.”

Fact: Connection happens through kōrero, kai, calm spaces, and manaaki — not waipiro.

Whānau Tools & Everyday Solutions

Hosting with manaaki:

Create safer, calmer spaces with kai first, alcohol‑free options, rides planned, and clear whānau boundaries.

Kōrero starters:

Talk early, talk often - about safety, boundaries, rides, and what a good night looks like for your whānau.

Alcohol‑free activities:

Games nights, arts & mahi toi, movie + mocktail nights, shared kai, beach days, volunteering, backyard sport.

“No thanks” scripts:

Plan some simple reo + English phrases to help back yourself or support someone else.

Support and Resources 

NZ Wide Support

Free and confidential


The Lowdown

Free text 5626

Support for when you're feeling down or anxious

Alcohol Drug Helpline

24/7 free support and advice.
0800 787 797
alcoholdrughelp.org.nz

1737 

1737.org.nz/

Free, confidential 24/7 support for anyone in New Zealand

Help and resources

In our community


TE HIKU HAUORA

PHONE: 09 408 4024

LOCATION: 49 REDAN ROAD, KAITAIA

Local health services

NGĀTI KAHU SOCIAL & HEALTH SERVICES

PHONE: (09) 408 3013

LOCATION: 35 PUCKEY AVE, KAITAIA

Provides social services and health programs

COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH & ADDICTION SERVICES

KAITAIA HOSPITAL

PHONE: (09) 408 9180  
(Te Whatu Ora - Te Tai Tokerau) Offers specialist services
Ask for the addiction service)

SALVATION ARMY BRIDGE PROGRAMME

KAITAIA SALVATION ARMY

bridge.salvationarmy.org.nz/

The Salvation Army Bridge provides a range of effective support services that help reduce the harmful effects of alcohol and other drugs in people’s lives

Alcohol-free choices show aroha, leadership, and care — for ourselves and the people we love.

Share this kōrero with your friends and whānau.

Need Support?

0800 787 797

0800 611 116

0800 229 6757

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