Through our Northland Field Officer Service we provide information, education and support to people with Parkinsons (and related disorders) and their caregivers.

Support meetings
Our Field Workers co-ordinate monthly Support Luncheons which are held in Whangarei and Kerikeri and a bi-monthly Support Luncheon is held in Kaitaia.  A bi-monthly morning tea is also held in Dargaville.

We also organize Carers’ Only morning teas and luncheons to allow the carers a much earned break where they can share their problems, concerns etc.

Visit the events calendar for these support meeting dates.

Under 60’s
For people diagnosed with Parkinson’s under the age of 60 there is a special group formed called ‘Upbeat’.  This group has Annual Conferences throughout New Zealand where members listen to some very qualified Guest Speakers and can socialize and discuss and share problems they may be facing in their everyday lives.  Northland Upbeat members also meet for coffee meetings from time to time.

Parkinson’s N.Z. also organises an Outward Bound Course in April every year for these members.  For most this course is completely out of their comfort zones but all come back with a renewed enthusiasm for life. 

Fitness
We try and encourage our members to join in local fitness groups, Tai Chi etc which are organized around our area.  The more active a member is the better as this can improve their condition.  Pilates is also very good for people with Parkinson’s and we run courses with a qualified trainer from time to time.

If you would like further information about any of the above please do not hesitate to contact us.

Read our latest Newsletter: January 2012 North’N Park’N Newsletter.pdf

Key Contacts

Leonie Robertson

Service Coordinator

I am the Coordinator for Parkinsons Northland and have been working here for five years.  If you have been diagnosed with Parkinsons Disease please do not hesitate to contact me and I will be able to put you in contact with a Field Officer in your area who will be able to provide support and education to you and your family.  I perform all secretarial and financial duties within the Northland office including completing funding applications and organising fund raising activities. I also write, put together and send out the monthly ‘North’n Park’n’ newsletter. 

09 436 1196
northland@parkinsons.org.nz

Vicki Sadgrove

Field Officer

I am the Field Officer for Parkinsons Northland.  My area is from Wellsford north.

My role is to provide support and information to Parkinsons clients and their carers,whanau, family through home visits, telephone contact and inservices.

My background is as an Enrolled Nurse since 1980 having worked in a variety of health related fields. Most recently in aged care and as a contracted Needs Assessor for Northable for six years.

Please feel free to contact me for any support, information I can provide for you as a client or carer.

027 2684973
parkinsons.northland@hotmail.com