About Us
Hōhepa Auckland was established in 1997 and is based in West Auckland. We offer a Residential Service, a Transition Service and a Community Participation – Day Program Service to adults who have an intellectual disability.
Our Vision
Founding Principles
Its founding principles were inspired by the work of Rudolf Steiner, Ph.D. philosopher, scientist and educator who lived from 1861-1925. His development of Spiritual Science, or Anthroposophy, created a picture of humanity which encompassed the depth and breadth of the physical body, the soul life and of the eternal spiritual nature.
Steiner elaborated this view through many books, lectures and practical means, and through the development of Social Therapy and Curative Education. His inspiration and genius led to holistic ways of working in many fields, to name a few: education (Waldorf Schools), special education, medicine, science, agriculture (biodynamic farming), drama and architecture – this continues to be the inspiration for the work at Hōhepa.
The present-day Auckland Hōhepa community, although part of the wider Hohepa Homes Trust Board, is semi‑autonomous and thus undertakes its own strategic planning. The focus is on being a quality provider with sustainable services, such as living options, community participation, opportunities for school leavers, and therapies inspired by anthroposophy.
Currently the community has grown to support 90 people across three services, with close to 70 full time and part time workers.
Our Aim
Hōhepa’s aim is to support people with intellectual disabilities to develop to their fullest potential, following the principles and teachings of Rudolf Steiner, whose approach to human psychology and education began from his understanding that in every human being, whatever their apparent impairment, there is a spiritual individuality at work, creating its own destiny.
The Adult Community Life
The adult community life involves the residents in daily vocational programmes, ranging from craft skills for weaving, felt making, woodwork, and gardening. Life Plans include plans for personal development and achievement in these vocational areas, with some linked to NZQA accredited courses and certificates.
Some residents gain work in the community beyond Hōhepa. Participating in the wider general community is also an important part of life, with programmes such as Twin Streams, sports programmes and participating in shopping trips all part of regular life.
Obligations and Standards of Care
Contracts and Legal Agreements with the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Social Development define obligations and standards of care, and regular audits are conducted to check our performance. We maintain well defined policies and procedures, and apply our own internal checking systems, to ensure high standards of care are constantly maintained.
The anthroposophical principles based on Rudolph Steiner’s Philosphy are integral to the practices and life plans, around both social therapy programmes and health.
