HARIKOA LIFE
Welcome to Harikoa Life
Many families ask the same question:
💬 “How do I ensure a secure and meaningful future for my loved one with a disability?”
Parents work tirelessly to provide the best life possible for their loved ones, but long-term planning remains a significant challenge. New Zealand’s disability system is stretched, and families are left feeling isolated and unsupported in planning for the future. As a parent-driven organisation, Harikoa Life is working to change that.
At Harikoa Life, we are pioneering a transformative approach to living for individuals with disabilities in New Zealand. Currently our piloting phase, we are deeply committed to creating a cooperative model of joyful and autonomous living, where every individual enjoys the dignity and freedom they deserve. Our journey begins with a vision to build communities that are not just inclusive but are also rooted in mutual support and lifelong residency.
Harikoa Life is more than a place to live; it's a movement towards creating inclusive communities where everyone can thrive. We envision working with local communities, friends, and families to set up local operations, all while being supported by the Harikoa Life framework.
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Living a Meaningful Life
For individuals with disabilities, living a meaningful life comes with its own set of challenges. It involves forming authentic connections, having the necessary support to lead one's own life, and experiencing the dignity and respect that everyone deserves. Additionally, it entails having long-term security—a place to call home with financial stability for the rest of one's life.
Challenges We Aim to Overcome:
01
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Relief from the ongoing worry about the future
Loneliness and Isolation
This concerns not only individuals with disabilities facing an uncertain future but also parents apprehensive about the lack of residential stability and adequate service delivery for their children.
Despite efforts for social inclusion, loneliness remains a pervasive issue, affecting mental health and self-esteem.
03
Unmet Demand
The high demand for quality services greatly surpasses what's currently available, leading to emotional and financial stress for individuals with disabilities and their families.
04
Financial viability
People with disabilities face significant long-term financial strain. Issues such as the cost of living, particularly housing costs, severely impact the financial well-being of these individuals.
05
Long-term Security
Concerns around secure tenure and the ability to adjust living arrangements according to changing needs highlight a significant gap in providing stability.
Harikoa Life is designed for people with disabilities who wish to live in a community and have the ability to do so.
Our communities are best suited for individuals who:
✅ Can develop and maintain natural relationships – Able to participate in community life in a way that fosters positive social connections.
✅ Can live with some level of independence – With the right support, can manage daily life in a shared environment.
✅ Are willing and able to engage in a mixed housing model – Where both people with and without disabilities contribute to a supportive, inclusive community.
Our approach focuses on developing the necessary skills and behaviors to help people transition into a mixed housing environment while still having access to the right level of support.
Piloting a New Beginning
Harikoa Life is a highly collaborative effort involving parents of children with disabilities. In recent months, we've engaged extensively with various government agencies, residential and service providers, individuals with disabilities, and fellow parents. Drawing from our own experiences, research, and insights from other countries, we've uncovered the needs of the people with disabilities in New Zealand. However, this is a complex issue, and we recognise the importance of working closely with those who deal with these challenges daily. As we near the start of the initiative's pilot phase prior to roll-out, we welcome the input of other parents and individuals with disabilities who aspire to gain greater independence. Whether you live with a disability or share our vision, we invite you to join us. Together, we can revolutionise disability support in New Zealand.