
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
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