We provide information, support, and advocacy to our community in Horowhenua, Manawatū, Rangitīkei and Tararua areas.
Services
What we offer
We support people living with MS across the Manawatū region in many different ways. Our services are always evolving in response to what our community tells us they need.
We offer easy-to-understand resources to help people and families make sense of a diagnosis and what comes after. Our Community Advisor provides one-on-one support — someone to listen, guide, and help navigate services and systems.
Our Wellness Classes offer a way to stay active, build routine, and feel supported both physically and emotionally. If you're interested in joining one of these groups, get in touch with our Office Manager.
We also run Peer Support Groups where people with MS can share experiences, swap tips, and simply be around others who understand. If you're curious about what these groups are like or want help finding the right one, just reach out.
When it comes to MS, we understand that a diagnosis is only the beginning. We work with Palmerston North Hospital to help people live well, not just manage symptoms, but feel seen, supported and connected.
Maintenance Therapy Programmes
These programmes have been set up specifically for people with multiple sclerosis and their families, providing peer support and social interaction.
Strength, endurance, flexibility and balance are beneficial to people with MS. The exercise classes have been tailored to be challenging yet achievable, and to meet individual requirements.
Peer support groups are a great way to meet people, share problems, and find resources.
Palmerston North Groups
Yogalates
A blend of yoga and pilates, run weekly by members at the MMSS Palmerston North Carnation House, 51 Waldergrave Street.
Massey Exercise Programme
MS clients work with Massey University students on an individualised programme to improve fitness and wellbeing, supervised by the students’ lecturer. This is held twice a week during the teaching semester at Massey University.
Contact the Office and Funding Manager for more information.
Art Class
For art enthusiasts! A weekly fun group providing mutual support, facilitated by an experienced artist at the MS Society. This is one of the subgroups of MMSS. This is a wonderful group that facilitates gatherings of members to create art. It is a wonderful opportunity for members to seek and receive reciprocal support in a casual setting.
The Gathering
An evening group for new and existing members to meet in a social environment. Regular speakers are invited.
Carers Group
A monthly gathering for carers of family members with MS or related conditions
OMS – Overcoming MS
An online peer support group for people wishing to manage their MS through changes to their lifestyle.
Regional Peer Support Groups
Taihape — Cuppa Group
Pahiatua — Coffee Group
Ōtaki — Coffee Group, Swimming Group
Foxton — Coffee Group
Rangitīkei — Lunch Group
Dannevirke — Coffee Group
Levin — Coffee Group
Feilding — Monthly Lunch Group
Contact the Office and Funding Manager for more information.
What is Multiple Sclerosis?
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disorder of the central nervous system (CNS).
There are approximately four thousand people with MS in New Zealand.
Common symptoms may include loss of balance, weakness, numbness and pain, fatigue and vision problems. The cause of MS varies widely from person to person.
While MS can’t be sured, much can be done to help manage the condition.
