Hastings & Napier Women's Refuge

04/09/2026

“It’s time we all stood up, spoke out, and made a difference together.” ⁠
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The incredible Korrin Barrett - speaker, mentor, long-time supporter of Hastings & Napier Women’s Refuge - tells us why she's once again getting behind the Gala Dinner and Charity Auction. ⁠
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Korrin’s words are a powerful reminder of why this event matters. It’s not just about one night - it's about raising our voices for those who need to be heard.⁠
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Limited remaining tickets are on sale now for the 2026 Gala Dinner & Charity Auction, in support of Women’s Refuge Hastings & Napier.⁠ Book now to secure a spot for your group of friends, colleagues or clients.

https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/2026/family-vip-services-gala-dinner-and-charity-auction-2026/hastings

04/09/2026

For women fleeing violence, 'their children are usually all they are thinking about'.

04/09/2026

You can read the full article, here: https://www.nowtolove.co.nz/news/real-life/julie-hart-family-violence-advocate/

“Teach boys to be gentle men, to communicate, to be equitable in relationships. For girls, it’s the same things that Dad taught me. That the world is your oyster. Nobody is better than you and you’re no better than anyone else.”

Inspired by her father's values, Julie Hart has spent 32 years advocating for women and familes escaping violence. Read her story in our latest issue, out now.

03/09/2026

"Change happens when a community decides to show up for its most vulnerable members, and that's exactly what this Gala represents."

Tracey Lee-Lewis, partner at returning sponsor Sainsbury Logan & Williams, told us why she's getting behind the Gala Dinner for Hastings and Napier Women's Refuges.
As well as being part of the SLW team, Tracey is a mum of two boys, an avid tennis player, and an active volunteer across a range of community trusts and boards. We love that she says, "I think about the safety and wellbeing of the people around me and I can't separate that from wanting to support those who don't have that safety right now. Standing behind this cause is an easy way to turn that belief into action."

Thanks for your support, Tracey and the whole team at Sainsbury Logan & Williams!

A few spots are available at this year's Gala Dinner and Charity Auction, taking place 19 September.

Book now at https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/2026/family-vip-services-gala-dinner-and-charity-auction-2026/hastings

03/09/2026

Have you spotted Julie's story in this week's Women's Weekly?!

In the lead up to our fundraiser, the Gala Dinner & Charity Auction taking place on 19 September, Business Manager Julie Hart speaks about her 32 years of working with the Refuge, and why we should all stand up for what's right.

"Every time something hits you in the gut, be an activist"

Tickets to the 2026 Gala Dinner are available now at www.familyvip.org.nz/2026-gala

Thanks to the New Zealand Women's Weekly and Kate Harvey for sharing Julie's story, and giving some insight into the work we do at Hastings and Napier Women's Refuges.

30/08/2026

Every four minutes, Police attend a family harm incident somewhere in New Zealand.

In 2025 alone, more than 170,000 family harm incidents were recorded by Police.

These numbers are difficult to comprehend, but for the people and families experiencing violence, they represent daily reality.

Here in Hawke's Bay, high levels of family harm continue to place significant demand on specialist support services like ours.

Family violence is not an issue that happens somewhere else. It is happening in our communities, and continuing to talk about it, recognise the signs and support those affected matters.

If you or someone you know needs support, call 0800 REFUGE (733 843).

27/08/2026

538 referrals. 318 safety plans. 2,167 safe house bed nights. 222 crisis calls.

These numbers represent just some of the support provided by Family VIP Services in the year to 30 June 2026.

Behind every number is a person or family who needed support, safety, advocacy or somewhere safe to stay.

We couldn't do this work without the people, businesses and organisations who stand alongside us.

Thank you for helping us continue to be here when our community needs us.

If you need to reach out, call 0800 REFUGE.

25/08/2026

An unforgettable evening, for an incredibly important cause.

The Family VIP Services Gala Dinner & Charity Auction is back, bringing our community together to help support individuals and families affected by family violence across Hawke's Bay.

Join us for a special evening of beautiful food, entertainment and live and silent auctions, while helping raise vital funds for the work of Family VIP Services.

~ 19 September
~ Toitoi - Assembly Ballroom
~ Individual and group bookings welcome - https://www.familyvip.org.nz/2026-gala or email [email protected]

We'd love to have you with us.

24/08/2026

Can you help support this year's Family VIP Services Gala Dinner & Charity Auction?

We're looking for local businesses and supporters who would be willing to donate goods, services or experiences for our live and silent auctions.

Every contribution helps us raise vital funds to support individuals and families affected by family violence across Hawke's Bay.

Businesses donating auction items will be acknowledged through our event and auction materials, with additional recognition for donations valued at more than $1,000.

If you can help with an auction item, service or monetary donation, we'd love to hear from you.

Please contact [email protected] to get involved.

21/08/2026

How does our team look after their own wellbeing while supporting others?

Earlier this month, our team spent some time together creating kete that reflect our values and the things that help keep us grounded in the work we do.

Working alongside individuals and families affected by violence can be challenging, and looking after the wellbeing of our own people matters too.

It was a chance to step away from the day-to-day, get creative, connect as a team, and reflect on what we each need to continue showing up for our community.