Source: New Zealand Government Kainga Ora
It’s an extraordinary development, more than anyone expected, and one that Matt firmly attributes to the healing power of home and family.
A year ago, Matt was left paralysed from cancer treatment. It was a devastating blow made worse by the fact he couldn’t return home as there was no wheelchair access. The only accommodation that could be found for him was a room in an Auckland retirement home, a very long way from his wife and daughters in the Waikato.
Wife Pene says it was a dark time for the whole family. “We missed each other, and I could see Matt was getting depressed because he couldn’t do much for himself.”
The turning point came in a call from Kāinga Ora; an accessible family home with flat access, wide doorways and a wetroom had become available in Takaanini, South Auckland.
“We were over the moon,” says Pene. “It really was a dream come true. I met the occupational therapist (OT) at the house to ensure it would be suitable then I went straight to Matt to tell him the good news.”
Kāinga Ora Wellbeing Advisor Angeline had coordinated with all stakeholders involved in Matt’s care to aid the search for a suitable home – his social worker, OT and physiotherapist, ACC and the rest home where he was staying.
“Where there are multiple agencies involved, it’s important to take a holistic approach to ensure customers’ needs are met,” she says.
“It was also very lucky that the right home, in the right location became available as it’s often a challenge to find a property that ticks all the right boxes for a whanau with accessibility needs.
“I know Matt and his whānau had endured a long separation, so it was a pleasure to see them reconnect as a whānau unit in their new home.”
“We’re so happy to be back together and it’s had an incredible effect on my physical health,” says Matt.
“My OT and physiotherapist are amazed by how well I’ve progressed since moving in here; I’ve even regained some movement in my legs.
“All the little things like being together and being able to do normal family stuff feels amazing. I used to feel hopeless for myself and worried about my family not having the security of a permanent home.
“Thinking back to where we were a year ago makes me realise how good life is now. I don’t have the words to accurately describe how grateful I feel, it’s overwhelming, but I know I have been blessed.”
Pene says opening the door to their new home “was like the sun coming out and showing us the way out of the dark. Honestly, we’re ecstatically happy to have a home and be together, soaking up the time we have together.”
Page updated: 30 January 2025