Birchwood Farm

A safe place to thrive and be yourself.

Birchwood Farm is a peaceful rural property where disabled people can grow vegetables and learn to manage a lifestyle block in a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment.

It's located just 16km south of Christchurch city centre and has been operated by NZCL for over 25 years.

Benefits of Birchwood Farm

Learn to grow your own vegetables
Connect with others who have similar interests
Explore our 5-acre farm block with plenty of open space

Environment and facilities

Birchwood Farm sits on a 5-acre property with a range of dedicated areas to explore, including a spiritual garden, a vegetable garden, a large tunnel house, animal paddocks, and a barn with a cosy fire.

Activities at Birchwood Farm

Planting, maintaining, and harvesting vegetables
Property maintenance
Lawn mowing

Birchwood is open Monday to Friday all year round, except for public holidays and a two-week break over Christmas. Each day we run a morning session from 8:30 am – 12 pm, and an afternoon session from 12 pm – 3:30 pm. You can attend one or both sessions if you like.

History

Birchwood was founded more than 25 years ago. From its beginning, Birchwood has stood as a place where individuals are not only welcomed but empowered to be themselves. Its enduring vision is to provide a safe, supportive environment where authenticity is encouraged and everyone can thrive.

Accessibility

Everyone should be able to do things that support their wellbeing and goals. We work alongside people to make sure they can do things in ways that feel right for them.

Cultural responsiveness

We strive to deliver culturally responsive services and work towards pae ora mō tātau katoa (equitable wellbeing for everyone).

Cost

Birchwood Farm is a pay-for-service opportunity. Talk to your LifeLinks (NASC) coordinator or your Enabling Good Lives (EGL) connector regarding funding.

Alternatively, if you are not eligible for funded support, you can pay for our service using your own money. Talk with our team to discuss pricing and support options.

Contact Birchwood Farm

Phone: 022 0129 176

Email: [email protected]

Frequently asked questions

Are you still open when it's raining?

We are still open when it is raining. However, when the weather is really bad, including rain, snow or high winds, people are encouraged to engage in inside activities in the barn where it is nice and toasty by the fire.

What do I need to bring to Birchwood?

Bring anything you’ll need for the day. Most importantly, don’t forget your lunch! We’ll remind you of what to bring each time you attend.

What do I need to wear?

It is recommended you wear work boots or similar enclosed shoes. As we mostly work outside, it is important that you wear plenty of layers so you can take these off or put more on to meet the needs of the weather.

Do I need to bring my own Support Worker?

This depends. We do have support workers on site to help you with the goals you are working on. However, if you need a little more support, then you are more than welcome to bring your own support worker. This is something we can talk about when you come for a visit.

Do I need to have experience with gardening?

Not at all. We will help you learn the skills you need.

Are there any animals at Birchwood?

Yes! We have some chickens which provide us with eggs, and a few sheep to keep the lawns down.

Does Birchwood operate outside of Monday-Friday 8:30am-3:30pm?

Not at this stage, however if this is something you would be interested in, then we are happy to have a chat.

We are New Zealand's trusted disability support provider

Disability Support Experts

NZCL has supported disabled people and their whānau since 1988.

Our Partners

We work closely with the Whaikaha - Ministry for Disabled People, Oranga Tamariki, District Health Boards, Ministry of Social Development, Corrections, and ACC as a preferred national provider.

Industry Leader

We’re part of New Zealand’s largest national network of disability service providers and a leader in health technology.

Enhanced Services

Whatever you need, our wraparound disability support and rehabilitation services can be tailored to support you with almost anything.

Public or Private Funding

Our disability support and rehabilitation services are free to those eligible for government funded support. We also provide private funded services.

Specialised Workforce

Our community-based workforce is unmatched – we apply our significant expertise in disability support and health services to all of the work we do.

Get info on our Support Services

To access our support services, please choose us as a preferred provider when you speak to Needs Assessment and Service Coordination (NASC) service or an Enabling Good Lives (EGL) Connector.

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If you would prefer to contact us via phone or email, use the details below and we'll be in touch soon.

PO Box 24445, Manners Street, Wellington 6142

[email protected]

0800 101 057