Need somewhere to turn? Happiness House is here to help

When you enter Queenstown’s Happiness House you will be greeted by a cup of tea, maybe a sweet treat donated by a local café, and always a warm smile. 

Happiness House is a support centre that is assisted by Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) through community grants. It helps those in need throughout Queenstown and has been a constant source of calm and connection since it was founded 40 years ago. It couldn’t be more vital than it is now.  

The centre’s manager Robyn Francis said COVID-19 continued to have a strong impact on people living in the community. 

“We’re seeing a lot of people feeling like they need to uproot and leave the area. Businesses are reducing hours and, for migrants particularly, it’s hard to get by. This is especially true if they have young families,” she said. 

“There is a huge sense of anxiety about what’s to come.” 

For people in need, the centre provides services including counselling, health and wellbeing advocacy, craft and activity groups, budget advice, and, simply, a place to relax and feel secure.  

“Ultimately, we’re a safe space and there is no expectation. You can come check out our second hand items or just have a chat. If you’re having a rough time we can organise support,” Francis said. 

Though COVID-19 has caused much stress and disruption, Francis said she had been heartened to see the amount of goodwill exhibited by people throughout the community. 

“I believe most people are inherently kind, but since COVID-19 arrived people have really opened up and been able to express it,” she said. 

The Happiness House is open to everyone, and that warm smile is always ready to greet anyone in need of a chat, “I love my job, I love seeing people transform from being strangers to becoming a part of the Happiness House, it really is a rewarding place.’

Happiness House is located at 4 Park Street and is open from 10:00am – 4:00pm on Mondays, andfrom 9:00am – 4:00pm Tuesday to Friday. All are welcome.