Finding grief support can feel difficult at the best of times. When you are in the middle of loss, knowing where to start — and who to contact — can feel overwhelming. This guide brings together the key services available to people across Aotearoa New Zealand.
Whether you are recently bereaved, supporting someone through grief, or simply looking for more information, there is help available. You do not have to navigate this alone.
Free 24/7 support — call or text anytime
If you need to talk to someone right now, these services are free and available any time of day or night:
- 1737 — Need to Talk?
Call or text 1737 free, 24/7, to speak with a trained counsellor. You do not need to be in crisis to call. - Lifeline Aotearoa — 0800 543 354
Free counselling and mental health support. Also text HELP to 4357. - Samaritans — 0800 726 666
Confidential support 24/7 for people feeling lonely, overwhelmed, or distressed.
Specialist grief support services
- The Grief Centre — 0800 331 333
Grief counselling, support groups, and resources for people experiencing loss in New Zealand. - Skylight — 0800 299 100
Grief and trauma support for people of all ages, including children and young people. - Victim Support — 0800 842 846
Specialist support for people bereaved by sudden death, traumatic death, or suicide. Available 24/7. - After a Suicide NZ
Dedicated support for people bereaved by suicide in New Zealand.
Support for young people
- Youthline — 0800 376 633
Support for young people. Text 234 or free call anytime. - Skylight
Also supports children and young people through grief and loss.
Māori and Pasifika support
- Te Ipu Aronui
Māori grief support. - Le Va
Pasifika mental health and wellbeing support. - Healthify NZ
Health information and resources including Māori and Pasifika wellbeing.
Hospice and palliative care bereavement support
Hospices across New Zealand provide bereavement support to families and whānau of people who have died in their care. Many also offer community bereavement services. Use Hospice NZ’s Find a Hospice to locate your nearest hospice.
Counselling in your area
- NZAC — Find a Counsellor
Search for a registered counsellor in your area, including those specialising in grief and bereavement. - Healthpoint NZ
Directory of mental health and counselling services across New Zealand. - Your GP
Your GP can refer you to funded grief counselling and check in on your physical and mental wellbeing.
Practical help after a death
- What to Do After Someone Dies — step-by-step guide
- Govt.nz — Death and bereavement guidance
- Work and Income — Bereavement Support Payment
Regional support directories
Grief Support NZ has regional guides for every part of Aotearoa. Find grief support near you:
Browse regional grief support guides →
Need support right now?
If you feel unsafe or overwhelmed, please reach out. You do not have to manage this alone.
If this helped you, you’re welcome to share it with someone who may need it.
You can also join the Grief Support NZ Facebook group to connect with others across New Zealand.
Grief Support NZ is free to use. If you’d like to support the time and care that goes into building these resources, you can buy me a coffee.
Support Grief Support NZThis article is intended as general support and information only. It is not a replacement for professional advice, counselling, or urgent help. If you feel unsafe, overwhelmed, or at risk, please contact emergency services or a crisis support service immediately.