Our new hub in North Dunedin has Officially Opened, And It’s Already Full of Life!
There is something truly special happening at Fern Collective — something we have dreamed about, worked toward, and poured our hearts into. After months of planning, building, and preparing, our neurodiverse therapeutic hub has officially opened, and it’s already buzzing with laughter, creativity, movement, and connection.
This hub isn’t just a building. It is designed with purpose, nature-based, therapeutic space where children and youth can explore, unwind, build confidence, and feel fully supported. A place where ferns — our young participants — are celebrated exactly as they are.
This post celebrates the hub’s opening, the incredible community that made it possible, and the first joyful moments already unfolding both indoors and out.
A Nature-Therapeutic Outdoor Space
From the very beginning, our goal was to create a space where children could connect with nature — digging, climbing, playing, and engaging in sensory experiences that support emotional regulation and child wellbeing.
Now that the hub has opened, our ferns are already enjoying the outdoor play areas, including mud kitchens, sandpits, swings, climbing zones, and garden beds. Doug’s careful groundwork has transformed the space into a safe yet adventurous playground, while Keith’s mud kitchens and community-painted fences add personality and creativity to the environment.
Even unexpected helpers, like a local Uber driver who dropped off supplies and jumped in to help paint, have made their mark — showing the power of community in creating a space where neurodiverse children can thrive. Watching our ferns explore, imagine, and learn in this space is truly magical.
“Our Ferns are loving exploring and creating in our new mud kitchens. The outdoor play space is ready for adventure and nature-based therapy.”
“We are forever grateful, our hub was built with the love and support of our incredible community.”
Bright, Calm & Welcoming Indoors
Step inside the hub and you’ll immediately notice the warmth and light! It really is the most warm & inviting space for Ferns to nurture their wellbeing, confidence, creativity & have positive experiences they will remember forever!
Inside, ferns are already engaging in calm, interest-led activities, supported by youth workers who encourage connection, self-expression, and learning. We wanted the hub to be a space for the children to comfortably relax, focus on their wellbeing & having fun with our Fern Community!
The indoor environment is enhanced by lush greenery! These plants bring calm energy, natural beauty, and opportunities for the ferns to care for something living — reinforcing the nature-based therapy approach that is central to Fern Collective’s philosophy.
“We have such beautiful natural light in our hub, creating a calm and welcoming environment. Beautiful plants bring calm and life to our indoor spaces, thank you Nick!”
Yoga, Mindfulness & Movement
Movement and mindfulness are already a core part of daily life at the hub. Guided sessions with Moana from Blissful Souls Yoga introduce ferns to gentle yoga, breathing exercises, and grounding techniques, helping them connect with their bodies and emotions.
Youth workers join in these sessions, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where neurodiverse children can feel confident and safe. Moana also provided yoga sheets that are now used regularly for self-regulation and calming practices, demonstrating the hub’s commitment to holistic child wellbeing.
“We believe mindfulness and movement are an important part of our daily hub activities & we have been so lucky to have Moana guide our ferns in yoga, connecting with their bodies & emotions.”
Creativity, Baking & Shared Moments of Joy
With the new kitchen and activity spaces, the hub has become a hub for creative and sensory activities. Fers have been baking Christmas cookies, crafting, painting, and proudly sharing their creations. These experiences combine skill-building, sensory engagement, and pure fun, helping children express themselves and celebrate their individuality.
A special delivery of biscuits from Arnott’s added to the excitement, highlighting how small joys can become meaningful moments in a therapeutic environment.
“Ferns are getting hands-on in the kitchen with baking and cooking activities. Creativity and play are bringing learning and joy together at the hub.”
Community Support That Made the Hub Possible
While the hub is now open, the journey to this point has been deeply community-driven. Volunteers, parents, local businesses, and youth workers all played essential roles in bringing this dream to life.
Stories of community support even includes a delivery driver joining Mathias to paint the fence! Youth workers assembling furniture and organising resources, and families donating materials or cheering on the team. Every hand that contributed helped create a space where neurodiverse children can feel seen, safe, and empowered.
“Our community has been integral in making the hub a reality. And we couldn’t do it without our youth workers supporting ferns in every corner of the hub.”
Incredible local businesses
We wouldn’t have been able to create the incredible Fern Hub without the help and support of some pretty incredible businesses! We had so much support bringing the Hub to life AND keeping it warm & inviting as a special space for you all!
A very special thanks to….
- Thanks to Jordan from Clarity Windows Dunedin, sunlight floods the rooms, creating a bright, uplifting environment perfect for therapeutic programs and group activities.
- Thanks to Allan from Dunedin Heat Pump Cleaning getting our heat pump all cleaned and serviced at the hub today getting it ready to get us warmed up in the mornings to welcome you in!
- Thanks to Pieter and his team at International Quality & Management Services (IQ&MS) for keeping the hub spic and span with weekly cleans!
- Thanks to Nick from ĹŚtepoti House Plants and Bonsai for providing our lush indoor plants!
- Thanks to Claire Rye for our awesome grafitti sign for our new Hub!
- Thank you to Hamish from Hambo’s Home Services for our fantastic new stairs!
Therapeutic Programs Already Underway
Since opening, the hub has begun offering a wide range of therapeutic supports and youth programs, including nature-based therapy, sensory-friendly spaces, one-on-one support, arts and crafts, baking, life skills, yoga, mindfulness, and social skills workshops.
Families have already shared positive feedback, describing the hub as “safe,” “peaceful,” “welcoming,” and even “life-changing.” The impact of providing therapeutic support for neurodiverse children in a dedicated, nature-connected environment is clear and ongoing.
“Our therapeutic programs are helping ferns grow, learn, and connect. And Personalised support is a cornerstone of our hub.”
Why This Hub Matters
For neurodiverse children, environments can make all the difference. They need consistency, calm, space to decompress, creative outlets, and supportive adults who understand their unique needs.
This hub provides all of this – and beautifully expands on it. Already, we are seeing small-yet-huge transformations: children trying new activities, connecting with peers, finding calm, and expressing pride in themselves.
“Every day, our ferns gain confidence, independence, and joy in our supportive environment.”
A Dream Just Beginning
Although the doors are open, the journey of this hub is only just beginning. With every week, new activities, experiences, and memories will unfold. More planting, play spaces, crafts, and learning opportunities are on the horizon, making the hub a living, evolving part of the community.
“The Fern Collective Hub is a growing, thriving space for our neurodiverse community.”
