Mum's Day Off (Carer Respite)
Our Mums Day off is a full day of respite and restoration for our mums who are carers to children or grandchildren. These days take place at the lovely Stepping Stones Ministries Lodge in Omanawa, Lower Kaimai. In 2026 there will be 3 of these events, keep an eye out for the dates in our newsletter and Facebook page.
In the current funding climate we are aware there is a lack of ability for carers to be able to fund respite for themselves and this is where we have wanted to try and provide a very affordable option to allow our mums and carers to rest and re energise for the day. For a cost of $20 for the day (members price) or $40 for non members, you will be able to rest, relax, sleep, read etc to fill your cup alongside like minded mums sharing similar journeys.
The cost covers all food, including lunch, morning tea and afternoon tea. A 30 minute massage is also available at an additional $45. If you do not wish to have a massage or wish to have a longer massage, please notify upon booking and price will be adjusted. Our numbers are limited to 6 people per day to keep the day restful for everyone.
The Day is normally scheduled on the first or second Saturday of the month, and runs from 9:30am to 4pm and includes bottomless coffee/tea and biscuits, a home cooked hot lunch, access to the library with DVDs, puzzles and books.
Stepping Stones lodge has an additional range of accommodation options available also. If you require that extended break away you can book an overnight stay in one of the beautiful cabins or rooms available, overnight prices are very reasonable and include meals. If this sounds like a bit of you enquire with Tania upon booking and discuss options and rooms available.
For information on how to become a member see our membership page and sign up today.
To learn more about stepping stones you can check out their website - www.steppingstoneministries.co.nz
For more information and to book for our mums day off at Stepping Stones please email the lovely Tania on [email protected]
Remember you can use your carer support or IF to pay a family member, even someone living in your home like your husband/partner a grandparent or older sibling, or someone else you trust to look after your child while you attend.
Some beautiful images of the spaces available at Stepping Stone Ministries Lodge. Including the respite cabins, chapel, massage area, bedrooms in main building, common areas and views.
What some of our Mums have to say about their time at our Mums Day Off.
"Wow, a breath of fresh air, literally. In the country with some kind, nurturing and fun company, much needed and enjoyed, thankyou!" -
"As a mum to a 14 year old boy who has ASD, ADHD and anxiety. I very much appreciate being able to access spectrum connections locally here in tauranga. The group is a wonderful source of information, support and advice. Its organization of respite days has been especially beneficial. As these days offer a chance for rest and respite from a busy and challenging life. It is a chance to share experiences and support others in similar situations. Groups like these are so important to families facing additional challenges in a time where life is already difficult.
"Wow, a breath of fresh air, literally. In the country with some kind, nurturing and fun company, much needed and enjoyed, thankyou!" -
"As a mum to a 14 year old boy who has ASD, ADHD and anxiety. I very much appreciate being able to access spectrum connections locally here in tauranga. The group is a wonderful source of information, support and advice. Its organization of respite days has been especially beneficial. As these days offer a chance for rest and respite from a busy and challenging life. It is a chance to share experiences and support others in similar situations. Groups like these are so important to families facing additional challenges in a time where life is already difficult.
WHAT OTHERS SAY...
Mums Day Off 10 May 2025
- Great day! Had a lovely walk at McLarens Falls – beautiful, tasty lunch, and the most amazing relaxing massage. What a perfect day. I.E.
- Love the beautiful scenery, great vibes from meeting this group, found out some amazing information to support my daughter. It feels like a safe amazing place to relax. I loved my massage and being part of this great small community. Here to stay :-). L.H.
- I had the best day out here! First time and can't wait to come back. Beautiful property, lovely & peaceful! Very relaxing and welcoming too. So happy my daughter invited me, and I came along. As we both found out very helpful information about what would be so useful when it comes to my granddaughter who is gifted with Autism. The massage was the highlight of my Mums Day Off! I thoroughly enjoyed the entire day here & meeting other mums as well! I will be back for more in the future. A.H.
- I have been here several times and intend to come several times more. For me, it's a place where I can rest, recharge and regulate once a month. It's a safe place to share my journey with my autistic daughter and get support and understanding like no other. Thanks again MJ for providing such a peaceful retreat in paradise. A.G.
Mums Day Off – 1 March 2025
- “I arrived with a mind that was overthinking everything! And left feeling relaxed, hear, and refocused” D
- “What a wonderful setting, the location, facilities, and company enabled me to relax, connect, and recharge. Thank you, Spectrum Connections, for this opportunity. I look forward to coming again.” S
Mums Day Off – 2 November 2024
- “Such a wonderful Day of reflection. So rare and so needed. Also fantastic to meet with other mums who have neurodivergent children that understand the stress and difficulties in raising these children” I
- “Really enjoyed the peaceful break. It is rare for me to have a day away from home and home-schooling. Lovely food and massage. Thank you!” S
- “A great place to relax and chillout to catch up with mums that share the same problems and cares in the world. To have a fantastic massage too. Excellent food, love it.” T
- “Today’s retreat was exactly what my tired Mumma mind needed. A chance to rest, recuperate and connect with other people walking a similar path to my own.” R
Mums Day Off – 5 October 2024
- An amazing relaxing venue and a much-needed break from a stressful home life. Just to be with other mums in similar situations and be able to talk about how hard and exhausting our lives can be, without judgement is such a breath of fresh air. Highly recommend for anyone who needs to rest and reset.” K
- “Spending the day at the retreat has been great. As a solo mum to 2 AuDHD children it is rare to get time off. I am also looking into either home-schooling or Te Kura next year for my completely time blind daughter which is going to mean even less time for myself. What I have enjoyed is being able to just relax as well as chat openly with the other mums about our struggles and brainstorm ideas on how to support each other. I am looking forward to coming again.” L
- “My first time here at this place and I really enjoyed having a chance to get away from my normal routine doing housework and chores on Saturday. So, this retreat helps me to have some tie for myself in spending time with other women going through things in life like my journey, so I am very grateful for today.” anonymous
- “This is my 3rd visit to this retreat and it’s something that always replenishes my energy and soothes my soul. Huge thanks to Mary-Jane for facilitating these retreats.” Anonymous
- “Love the relaxed vibe in the house on these special days, no matter who the ladies are that attend.” anonymous
Mums Day Off – 14 September 2024
- “Awesome relaxing day at mum’s retreat. Serene surroundings, healing massage, heavenly lunch and nibbles. Laughing, crafting, healing tears. I have found my tribe, and I am truly blessed” R
- “Wow! A breath of fresh air-literally in the country with some kind nurturing and fun company, thank you, much needed and enjoyed.” H
- “Such a beautiful day of shared stories, laughs, tears, and good company and lovely food. Good for the soul and lovely way to rejuvenate amongst like-minded people. The setting, and staff here are peaceful, supportive, and welcoming, much like Mary-Jane who facilitates with great compassion, warmth and understanding. Can’t wait to visit again.” A
