Anne’s journey to finding peace and a place to call home

When Anne Percival lost her best friend Vicky in June 2024, her world suddenly felt unsteady.

“We’d known each other since we were little,” Anne says.

“She wasn’t sickly, then suddenly she got RSV and passed away. Everyone was shocked.”

Grieving and struggling to find calm, Anne was also facing housing instability.

Living with her daughter in a noisy flat made it difficult to heal.

“I was really not too well after my friend died,” she says.

“My daughter sought out some help for me, and that’s how I found the Porirua Whānau Centre.”

Through grief counselling, Anne met social worker Veronica, who became a key support.

“Veronica was amazing,” Anne says.

“She helped me get into transitional housing, I never knew such things existed.”

That first placement, a two-bedroom unit in Ranui Heights, offered the quiet she desperately needed.

“It was fully furnished and peaceful, just what my grief-addled brain needed at the time.”

After six months, Anne moved to another transitional home in Takapūwāhia.

“It was small and self-contained, and I loved it. I had a half-sea view and a lot of peace.”

The stability gave her space to recover and reconnect. During that time, she also joined Matua Power, a community group run by the Whānau Centre.

“I enjoyed it so much. Everyone there was so kind and supportive.”

Eventually, the Whānau Centre team helped Anne secure her permanent home in Titahi Bay.

“An elderly lady had gone into a rest home, and her place became available,” Anne says.

“They asked if I’d like to go there, and that’s where I am now.”

Her new one-bedroom flat is bright, warm, and, most importantly, hers.

“It’s small but lovely and clean. I’ve made it my own.”

Today, Anne feels more grounded. Time and community connection have helped her find emotional balance.

“Life goes on,” she says. “I still miss my friend, but I’m better now.”

She speaks with deep gratitude for the Porirua Whānau Centre and its staff.

“They were just brilliant, so kind and supportive. I never knew places like that existed. They gave me peace when I needed it most.”

Anne hopes her story encourages others to reach out.

“If anyone’s struggling – whether with grief or housing – don’t be afraid to ask for help,” she says. “The Whānau Centre really does make a difference.”