5 March 2026
Having lived on a farm raising three children under five, and with a background in rural and mental health, Ellise (Kāi Tahu, Te Āti Haunui-ā-Paparangi, Moriori) has a deep understanding of the issues rural whānau can face.
“A big challenge for rural māmā can be taking care of the kids, often on their own, around the clock while farmers are tied to the farm, especially in busy seasons” she says.
Rural living and accessing medical care is also something she knows about first-hand, with her third pēpi being born with a rare congenital brain disorder requiring multiple medical trips into Christchurch to see specialists.
“That first year with my daughter was scary not knowing how her journey would unfold, and with two other children close in age, having the right people around at the time to support was crucial.’’
With her daughter now aged three and doing well, Ellise is a valued member of the Plunket team, as Pou Hononga (Māori Business Partner Advisor) for Southern and Central regions.
“Māori are a minority population in many rural areas but it’s also where most of our marae are situated. For us as a whānau connecting with our local marae has been an important part of raising our tamariki, providing a space for connection and wellbeing support. I hope our rural whānau can find their village too. Sometimes it’s even the local rugby or sports club” she says.
Whānau Āwhina Plunket understands that living rurally brings challenges and we aim to provide services that fit in around rural life.
Our nurses often travel long distances to reach remote whānau and our Well Child checks are also available online to support those living remotely.
Our free 0800 933 922 healthline service, PlunketLine, is available to any caregiver in New Zealand 24/7 – for advice, reassurance, or just someone to talk to. We also offer free breastfeeding and sleep support online: these are video call sessions with trained consultants.
We know that rural caregivers can feel socially isolated. That’s why we run Plunket and PIN groups in many rural areas, providing opportunities for whānau to meet and socialise.
Find out more about Whānau Āwhina Plunket’s services for rural whānau.
