Staff wellbeing is taking centre stage at Onerahi Medical Centre, where a growing list of thoughtful initiatives is helping the team feel more connected, recognised, and supported.

From the continued success of the ever-popular staff fruit bowl to fun new ideas like a "Spin the Wheel" recognition at monthly meetings, the centre is finding creative ways to promote a healthy and positive work environment.

The nurses kicked off the year with a team bonding day in February, externally led by Omni. The session focused on communication, recognition, and collaboration, with the highlight being a fun and challenging Escape Room challenge. As you can see from the picture attached the day strengthened relationships and gave valuable insight to management on how staff like to be recognised, involved in decision-making, and communicated with. A proud outcome of the day was the creation of three new core values – a great achievement.

Onerahi Medical Centre has also been supplying a weekly fruit bowl, a simple but much-appreciated idea that came directly from staff feedback in the original wellbeing survey. Beyond snacks, the wellbeing team helped transform the break area into a calming outdoor space, adding seating, an umbrella, and a growing array of greenery. Over the warmer months staff started using the area more regularly, and there's ongoing interest in expanding the plant life throughout the centre.

Staff themselves have stepped up to lead social initiatives, launching a staff-led social club with each member contributing $10 towards upcoming events. It’s a positive sign of team ownership and engagement in making the workplace more fun and connected.

Looking ahead, the team is continuing to offer educational opportunities like the Energy for Life webinar and will be promoting small group walks, use of gym and facility connections, and wellbeing prompts at huddles. With ongoing support like access to counselling services, social club events, and a strong focus on connection, Onerahi Medical Centre is showing how thoughtful, staff-driven initiatives can make a big difference in workplace wellbeing.

If you would like any further information on our Active Workplaces initiative, please email sharona@sportnorth.co.nz or check out our Active Workplaces FB page for challenges and events.

Article written by Sharon Adams, Active Workpalce Coordinator