General information on accessing services

In New Zealand there are a range of services available for people struggling with mental health (MH) difficulties or problems with alcohol or other drugs (AOD).

These services are generally provided by one of three groups

• The District Health Board (DHB) and Ministry of Health.
• Non government organisation’s (NGO’s) service providers that have contracts with the district health boards
• Private providers

What does it cost?

Whether a service is free or not depends on who provides the service, and whether you meet their criteria.

Services provided by the District Health Board and NGO’s are generally free.
You often need to be referred to these services by your GP or by the specialist addictions and mental health teams. However some service let you refer yourself (e.g. Community Alcohol and Drugs service CADS).

Some services (e.g. counselling in community agencies) may have some cost attached; however if finances are an issue, the service may be able to negotiate a reduced cost.

If you are having a problem finding Counties Manukau service that fits your needs then get in touch with the DRIVE team in case we can help. You can also try visiting The Family Services Directory or phoning them on 0800 211 211, the people on this team have access the details about hundreds of different services around the whole country.

Public Mental Health Services

The publicly funded community mental health centre (CMHC) you use is based on your home address. The exception to this is if you are using culturally specific services, older person’s mental health services or maternal mental health.

You can ask for a referral to community mental health through your GP.