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Taranaki Community services
Looking out for one another is an ingrained part of largely rural regions like Taranaki, so you'll find there's a wide range of community organisations and services.
Looking for general community services information?
Public/Government services
Tax department
You can contact Inland Revenue (IR) online, by phone or in person at the area offices in New Plymouth. For a personal appointment contact IR first by phone.
IR contact | Contacts page for Inland Revenue
NZ Post
To find your nearest postshop or Kiwibank use this site. You can also find other information about postal services here
Local councils
For many local services, you can check or inquire with the local council nearest you.
Local councils in Taranaki | Department of Internal Affairs
Family services
Use this directory to locate and contact support in the Taranaki region for services relating to addiction, basic needs, disaster recovery, education and training, employment, ethnic services, family violence, health, mentors, legal and civil services, mental health, parenting and caregiving, special needs and disability, youth services and ISO capability.
Family Services Taranaki | Family Services directory
OUTLine NZ
OUTLineNZ is a free, nationwide specialist helpline and counselling service offering support for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) people and for people questioning their gender identity/sexual orientation. It is staffed by trained volunteers, and qualified counsellors also offer affordable face to face counselling at OUTLineNZ’s Auckland office or via skype.
Phone for free 0800 688 5463
Community networks
For information about community groups in Taranaki check out these sites.
South Taranaki clubs and organisations
Community Access Radio
Community Access Radio is a local radio station that is run by members of the community. Programmes are hosted by individuals or community groups, and are broadcast in their language about their interests. Tune in to listen, or plan to broadcast your own show.
Access Radio Taranaki 104.4 FM
New Zealand Newcomers Network
The New Zealand Newcomers Network is a network of groups throughout New Zealand welcoming newcomers and offering a range of fun social events and activities. The events are a great way to meet new people, find out about local activities, and get connected with your local community. Anyone can join – and membership is free.
If there is not one in your area, Newcomers Network will give you all the help and support that you need to start one.
Migrant Women Meet
Migrant Women Meet-Friends Uniting Nations (MWM-FUN) is a newcomers' network which invites women in the Taranaki community who find themselves far from home to get together over a cup of tea. The group has formed walking groups and has held movie outings, lunches, dinners and numerous other social events. The network meets every Tuesday 11am - 12.30pm at the Community Lounge, Level 1, Puke Ariki Library, New Plymouth.
Safety
Neighbourhood support contacts
eWatch, the Taranaki Neighbourhood Support agency, aims to make our homes and communities safer and more caring places in which to live.
Neighbourhood Support Groups work together and with the Police and other community organisations to reduce crime, improve safety and prepare for emergencies and natural disasters. Check this website for someone to talk to about Neighbourhood Support in your area.
eWatch - North Taranaki Neighbourhood Support
New Zealand Police advice for new arrivals
On this site you will find information about the Police and crime prevention advice for newcomers in 12 different languages.
Police contacts
Use this site to find out where your nearest police station is and the name of the Pacific and ethnic liaison officer for this region.
Fire service
Find out about your local fire service by using this site.
Taranaki Fire stations | NZ Fire Service
Women's refuge
The Taranaki Women's Refuge provides women with information and support to make the changes that will enable them to live violence-free lives.
Shakti
Shakti offers a crisis call number (0800SHAKTI) and safe houses around the country for migrant and refugee women who are experiencing domestic violence.
Shakti is a national not-for-profit community organisation specialising in the area of women’s development, domestic/ family violence intervention, prevention and awareness. They provide culturally competent support services for women, children and families of Asian, African and Middle Eastern origin.
Labour Inspectorate - migrant exploitation
Labour inspectors work with employers and employees to make sure that employment laws are applied properly in workplaces.
If you think that you have not been treated fairly at work, you can contact Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) Labour inspectors on 0800 20 90 20.
Civil Defence Emergency information
Important information from Taranaki Civil Defence about what to do in an emergency.
The New Zealand Government created the Get Ready website with information about what to do in many types emergencies.
Transport
The Taranaki Regional Council's transport page has an overview and links to the key transport options available
Taranaki transport | Taranaki Regional Council
The New Plymouth District Council's website, Let's Go, offers bus timetables, route maps, tips for bike riders and walkers, and links to a carpooling website.
Let's Go | New Plymouth District Council
Bus service
The public bus service in Taranaki is operated by Citylink and Southlink.
Taranaki bus information | Taranaki Regional Council
Cycling
For information about cycling in New Plymouth go to this council site.
Ride | New Plymouth District Council
Parking
Go to this council site to find out about parking in New Plymouth.