At Anxiety NZ, we’re proud to be a national organisation with deep roots in local communities. One of the ways we achieve this is by having passionate and experienced team members based across Aotearoa. Today, we’re excited to introduce Holly, our Helpline Manager based in Ōtautahi Christchurch.

With a journey that began over a decade ago as a volunteer, Holly brings heartfelt dedication and leadership to our Helpline team. She shares what inspired her to return, what makes the Helpline unique, and why a regional presence matters in delivering compassionate, meaningful support to people and whānau living with anxiety.

1. Can you tell us a bit about yourself and what brought you to this role with Anxiety NZ?

My history with Anxiety NZ goes back over a decade. I started as a volunteer on the Helpline in 2014 while completing my degree in Psychology at the University of Auckland, and also worked as a receptionist in the clinic. After completing my Master's degree, I spent some time working in other roles in Aotearoa and the Pacific, and have now returned as Helpline Manager. I was born in Auckland, raised in the UK, and am now based in Ōtautahi Christchurch.

2. What excites you most about being in the role of Helpline Manager?

I love the work that Anxiety NZ does to support individuals, whanau, and the community. Anxiety is close to my heart, having supported several loved ones with anxiety over the years.

Having been involved with the Helpline for so many years, I’ve loved seeing how Helpline has grown and developed. One thing that really excites me about the Helpline is the power of volunteers, who give up their time on this Helpline, often while studying towards future careers as psychologists or other mental health professionals. What makes the Anxiety Helpline special is that we have a clear and specific purpose to provide anxiety support and psychoeducation, doing what we do with excellence.

3. Can you share a story about the impact of the Helpline?

One of the fantastic things we often see with the Helpline is callers reaching out when they first start to experience anxiety. Our volunteers are frequently the first person someone tells about their anxiety, and being able to provide that acknowledgement and validation, along with evidence-based and compassionate support and information, can make a significant difference in that first conversation. People know they aren’t alone in what they are experiencing, and are instilled with a sense of hope. One of the most rewarding things is seeing someone who calls us regularly go on to get the right support and resources for themselves, until they no longer need the Helpline. Sometimes we receive calls from individuals who have gotten back in touch to tell us how much better they are doing, and how they have felt empowered and encouraged to get the right help for themselves.

“We’re often the first person someone tells about their anxiety.”

4. You’re based in Christchurch. Why is having a regional presence, like here in Christchurch, essential for supporting people with anxiety and mental health experiences?

When I first started with the Helpline, we were an entirely Auckland-based team. This was a few years after the big Christchurch earthquakes, when many people in Christchurch were struggling with their anxiety and facing long waitlists to get professional support. It was amazing being able to provide support to people during that time. Now we have Helpline team members all over Aotearoa, and our volunteers have a great understanding of what’s going on for people in different parts of the country, truly making us a national team and service. Our Helpline offers valuable experience for those pursuing careers in mental health, and being able to play a small part in helping to nurture our future mental health workers is truly special.

“Christchurch is a city of resilience, and I’m proud to be part of it.”

5. What’s something you wish more people knew about the helpline and the team behind it?

We aren’t just here for people who are experiencing anxiety themselves, we also provide support for whanau who have loved ones with anxiety. We can help people identify anxiety management strategies that work for them, and find appropriate support services for them in their area.

“We aren’t just here for individuals — we’re also here for whānau.”

6. Can you tell us about the volunteers, duty manager and clinical back up roles and how it prepares them for future roles in healthcare helping the community?

Many of our volunteers stay with us for many years, starting as volunteers before progressing to become Duty Managers once they have gained extensive experience on the Helpline. Duty Managers assist with more complex calls while also nurturing the next generation of volunteers. Once people finish their training, several of them become clinical backups, providing oversight and support so that we can respond effectively to any situation that might arise. Duty Managers and Clinical Back-Up are also crucial support for the volunteers, ensuring that no one is ever doing this mahi alone. We really are a team that all look out for each other.

“We never do this mahi alone — we look out for each other.”

7. What do you love most about being based in Christchurch?

Christchurch is such a cool city; there has been so much growth over the last decade. I see Christchurch as a city of resilience, having had some really challenging years but bouncing back and becoming a vibrant, diverse place to live. It’s also pretty great having the rest of the South Island on your doorstep, ready to explore!

8. Do you have a go-to self-care activity that helps you recharge?

My absolute go-to for self-care is to curl up on the couch with a cup of tea, a book, and my cat Panic purring on my lap; it really grounds me!

Holly’s journey is a powerful reminder of the heart and commitment behind every call to our Helpline. From Christchurch to communities across Aotearoa, our team is here to listen, support, and walk alongside people and whānau facing anxiety.

👉 If you or someone you love is living with anxiety, you’re not alone. Call our free 24/7 national 0800 ANXIETY Helpline (0800 269 4389).