Our history

Ours is a history of innovation inspired by the needs of people

From its humble beginnings nearly 20 years ago, the WISE Group is today one of the largest non government providers in the New Zealand mental health sector.

It all began in 1989.  At that time Tokanui Hospital was closing, and there was concern about homelessness and lack of support for people.  A group of community organisations and individuals formed a charitable trust, now known as Pathways, and our dream of helping ordinary New Zealanders living with mental illness took flight.

Growth followed as Pathways established services in several regions and began pioneering a fresh approach to delivering mental health services.  People said they needed to have good housing, a job and to be connected to their communities to recover well.  Pathways was in a unique position to support the growth of new initiatives and new solutions to make this a reality.

Two new services emerged, Blueprint Centre for Learning and Workwise.  In 2000, these services became separate entities focusing on employment, education and social enterprise.

Around this time the gap in women’s health needs emerged as an international trend. The Monastery and Iris were established in Hamilton in 2005 to pilot specialised services for women experiencing stress, trauma or depression.

In 2006, WISE was selected by the Ministry of Health to host Te Pou, a national organisation leading developments in mental health research, information and workforce development.

Today the WISE Group comprises eight charitable companies and is headed by WISE Trust.  Through its management services company, WISE Management Services, WISE provides a suite of infrastructure and development services to the entire Group.

Much has changed since 1989. We’ve grown and diversified; we’ve built expertise and become leaders in our field. But our history remains our touchstone, and our dream is still the same.