About HAVEN
HAVEN – Mid-South Refuge is a professional, community-based family safety service dedicated to creating a community where every home is a sanctuary. Based in the heart of Timaru we provide comprehensive support to individuals and whānau experiencing family or sexual harm in the Mackenzie, North Otago, Mid and South Canterbury region. We believe that true safety is more than just a temporary roof over one’s head; it is a vital foundation for empowerment, personal security, and deep cultural connection.
Important safety note
If you are in immediate danger or experiencing an emergency, please dial 111 right away.
Our crisis line is a tool for support and coordination, but emergency services are the fastest way to ensure physical protection in a life-threatening moment.
The meaning behind our name
A “HAVEN” is more than just a shelter from a storm; it is a place of safety, rest, and beginning. For many years, our organisation was known as the Mid-South Island Women’s Refuge and Family Safety Services. While our core mission to provide sanctuary remains as strong as ever, we evolved our name to HAVEN to better reflect our inclusive, whānau-centered approach to modern family safety.
To us, a HAVEN is a visible, welcoming space where anyone wāhine, tāne, non-binary, and gender-diverse individuals can find the professional support they need to navigate their journey toward a life free from harm. We provide a neutral and safe environment for all members of our community to seek advice and advocacy.
The Woven Heart
The woven heart at the center of our logo is a powerful symbol of connection, protection, and collective strength. Inspired by the traditional art of weaving, it reflects how individuals, whānau, and local community services are interwoven to create a net of safety and support for our clients.
The heart represents our five core values, which form the H.A.V.E.N. acronym a unified foundation of care:
H - Healing
Recognising that physical safety is just the beginning. Healing is the long-term journey of reclaiming emotional and spiritual wellbeing.
A — Advocacy
Standing alongside you as your voice. We ensure you are heard and respected within legal, social, and community systems.
V — Violence-Free
A shared commitment to breaking the cycle of harm for a safer, more resilient Mid-South Island community.
E — Empowerment
Providing the tools, education, and resources so you can make the self-determined choices that are right for your future.
N — Nurture
Leading with Manaakitanga (hospitality, kindness) to care for the physical, emotional, and cultural safety of every person we serve.
Our Core Pillars
Our work is guided by four professional pillars that ensure our services meet the diverse needs of the South Canterbury region. We treat every individual and whānau in a respectful, confidential, sensitive, and non-judgmental manner.
Parallel development
Grounded in our commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, we ensure our services develop in ways that are culturally appropriate and complementary. This approach allows us to work together as a unified organisation while preserving the cultural integrity and unique heritage of everyone who walks through our doors.
Collectivism
We are committed to shared responsibility and active participation at the local, regional, and national levels. By fostering a culture of collective accountability, we ensure that the voices of those we serve remain at the heart of our decision-making and community advocacy.
Equality and empowerment
We operate with a steadfast belief in and commitment to equal rights and opportunities for all. Our work focuses on dismantling the barriers of gender-based violence and empowering individuals to reclaim their personal autonomy and lead self-determined lives.
Nurturing diversity
HAVEN is a visible and welcoming space for all identities . we are committed to nurturing diversity and difference, working actively to ensure a safe, inclusive environment that respects and protects those of all sexual orientations and gender identities.
Whānau-centered advocacy
We work with the whole family unit to navigate the complexities of family harm. By providing non-judgmental, expert support, we help whānau move from crisis toward long-term resilience and health.
Bicultural practice
Grounded in Te Tiriti o Waitangi, we prioritise culturally safe approaches. We honour the unique needs of Māori whānau and ensure our practices reflect a deep respect for indigenous values and partnership.
Tamariki education programs
We are dedicated to the safety of our youngest community members. Through specialized advocacy and our Stepping Stones program, we help young people understand their emotions and find safety.
Tech and digital safety
In a modern world, safety must extend to our devices. We provide practical guidance on securing accounts and securing technology so it remains a tool for connection, not a tool for control.
Where to find us
Our community hub is located at 12 Elizabeth Street, Timaru.
From this central location, we serve the wider Mid-South Island region, offering a visible and welcoming space for anyone seeking advice, advocacy, or a safe place to start over.