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News & Blogs
Find weekly news and updates, customer stories and more from this page. If you have an article or opinion piece you would like to share on our page, we would love to hear from you.


Debbie's Fund for Good Story
Debbie has spent years dreaming about creating a business that combines her creativity, love of animals, and desire to build something of her own. With support from Manawanui's Fund for Good, that dream took a big step forward when she received an xTool laser engraving machine.


Jessica’s Story: Sewing with Purpose
Jessica creates handmade covers for medical devices that help people feel more comfortable, confident, and like themselves. With support from Fund for Good, she upgraded her sewing equipment and workspace, making it easier to work independently and create custom pieces for her clients. The new setup is already making a meaningful difference, enabling Jessica to continue supporting others while building a future that works for her.


Major concerns about the Disability Support Services Bill
The DSS Bill has sparked significant debate across Aotearoa New Zealand’s disability community. While the Government says the Bill will provide “clarity and stability to the system which supports thousands of disabled New Zealanders”, many, including Manawanui, are concerned the Bill will negatively impact how disability support is delivered, particularly Individualised Funding. A key concern is that the Bill shifts a large portion of the substantive detail out of the pri


Every Step Forward: Emma's Journey
Emma's recent therapy intensive in New York marked another important milestone in her journey. Born with a complex brain disorder, she continues to make remarkable progress through determination, consistency and specialised therapy. Alongside hard work in the clinic, Emma and her family created lasting memories together, returning home with something far more valuable than souvenirs - progress. Every step forward is worth celebrating.


Alana’s Dream: Giving Back, One Paw at a Time
Alana is passionate about giving back to others and creating meaningful connections in her community. As a Manawanui customer since 2017, she has been able to stay independent and connected to her whānau, friends, and local community. With the help of her service dog, she gained confidence and independence in her day-to-day life. “Before Gus I didn’t risk going out without someone with me. I wasn’t fully living my life.” With Gus by her side, Alana gained confidence and indep


Centre of Movement opens two NZ clinics for Kiwi kids with neurological disorders
Centre of Movement (CoM) Rotorua. If you build it, they will come. This idea has certainly played out for the Centre of Movement (CoM) founders Stephen and Emily Pennisi who recently opened their first New Zealand clinics in Rotorua and Christchurch, in June and October respectively last year. Demand for their Intensive Therapy Programme for children with neurological conditions and brain injuries already existed here but has quickly increased following the arrival of the
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