Eating Disorders - a community conversation

Otago Central Lakes is seeing an increase in young people presenting with eating disorders. In response, we’re bringing people together for an open, informed community conversation.

This event will:

• Increase awareness of the signs and symptoms to support early identification and intervention.

• Challenge common myths and misconceptions.

• Provide information about local and regional supports and services.

• Raise awareness of Eating Disorder Carer Support (EDCS).

• Explore the potential for establishing a local Upper Clutha support group.

We warmly invite parents, whānau, teachers, counsellors, health professionals, and anyone wanting to better support those affected.

Speakers

• Sarah Rowland: Chair, Eating Disorders Carer Support 

• Hayley Guinness: Clinical nurse consultant 
  

Panel discussion | Q&A

• Hayley Guinness, Clinical Nurse Consultant 

• Sarah Rowland: Chair, Eating Disorders Carer Support 

• Dr Andrew Boyd, General Practitioner, Aspiring Medical

• Donna Gillard, Senior Registered Nurse, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services - Southern, Health New Zealand

• Kellie Hawkins, ADL Clinician and Occupational Therapist

• Victoria Stewart, Head of Guidance Counselling, Mount Aspiring College

• Pip Miller, Carer
  

Event details

Date: Thursday 21 May 2026

Time: 7pm

Location: Sidey Auditorium, Wānaka Community Hub

Cost: Free event

Have a question for our panel? Submit it when you register.

Wānaka-Upper Clutha | Cromwell | Queenstown | Arrowtown | Alexandra | Clyde