Improving crisis responses - services map
People and whānau experiencing crisis need access to urgent support in ways that is timely, culturally responsive, and compassionate. This map shows progress to increase access and support for people experiencing a mental health crisis. This was published in November 2026.
What a crisis responses system looks like
There are times when people need support to prevent distress shifting into crisis. It’s important that whenever people and their whānau are at this point, they have someone to call, someone to respond, and a safe and welcoming place to go.
A robust crisis response approach is at the heart of an effective mental health and addiction system and getting that right will have ripple effects on other parts of the mental health system.
However, crisis response pathways are hard to navigate, fragmented, and patchy, and many people don’t get the help they need. Across Aotearoa New Zealand, we have a collection of services rather than a coordinated national framework. This is something we drew attention to in our November 2025 on crisis responses.
What we are calling for is:
A nationally cohesive crisis response system, including nationwide access to 24/7 phone-based crisis support, clear and consistent pathways and an increased range of options including crisis cafes, co-response teams, and peer support in EDs.
Read the full report: Urupare mōrearea: Crisis responses monitoring report (November 2025)
About the crisis responses service map
On the map, and accompanying table, we have listed existing peer-led acute alternatives as well as new initiatives announced by the government from early 2024 as part of its commitment to strengthening services for those requiring crisis mental health support. The other services listed are crisis cafés, peers in EDs, and co-response teams.