About Cholmondeley
Mission
Our Vision: Tamariki are nurtured, strong and resilient. Whānau are self-managing and empowered.
Cholmondeley (pronounced Chum-Lee) Children's Centre is a haven by the sea in Governors Bay, providing children from across Canterbury with a safe place to be kids when life at home is challenging.
We provide free, short-term, planned and emergency respite care for children aged 5–12 during times of family stress or crisis, or when a planned break can support family wellbeing.
Alongside around-the-clock care from professional staff, children take part in outdoor activities and adventure-based learning, giving them opportunities to try new things, build confidence, and foster resillience.
Our approach is underpinned by a strong belief in the mana and potential of every child. We recognise that every child has their own strengths, experiences and needs, and create an environment where they feel valued, supported and encouraged to thrive.
Cholmondeley is an independent charity and costs over $2,600,000 per year to run. Just 20% of this figure is met by Government funding, and the remaining 80% comes from the generous support of the Canterbury community.
A Brief History
Cholmondeley has been serving the Canterbury community since 1925 and in that time more than 33,000 tamariki have stayed at the Centre.
Hugh Heber Cholmondeley left the land and original Cholmondeley house to the children of the Banks Peninsula area, in memory of his late wife Margaret and on March 7th 1925 ‘Cholmondeley Memorial Children’s Home’ was established.
Fast forward to 2015 and the purpose-built Cholmondeley Children’s Centre you see today opened its doors.
