Projects & Programmes

Our vision is focusing on the needs of the local community and beyond that provides direction and the resources to meet practical, emotional, and social needs.

A Playground for All – Inclusive, United, and Joyful

We have a vision: to create a truly inclusive play space where disabled children and their able-bodied siblings can play together — side by side, without barriers.

All too often, playgrounds are designed for either disabled children or able-bodied children, but rarely both. This separation leaves families divided and siblings isolated. We want to change that.

We have secured one acre of land just outside the Four Avenues in Christchurch, a prime location for a community-centred, inclusive playground. Our goal is to build a fully fenced, safe and welcoming environment that includes adaptive play equipment, accessible pathways, sensory areas, and essential facilities like a café and toilets — making it a place for families to connect and thrive.

But to bring this dream to life, we need your support. Whether it’s funding, resources, partnerships, or expertise — every contribution brings us one step closer to making inclusive play a reality for our tamariki.

Will you help us create a place where every child can belong, play, and grow — together?

Empower Moto Training

In October I sat my Basic Training, Competency Based Training Assessment, and Restricted License with Mary Ann.

 I was very nervous and anxious, but the one on one instruction and the patience of Mary Ann put me at ease, and I felt so supported and encouraged. She didn’t just grow my skill level but my confidence.

I have carried on and sat my Bronze and Silver ACC funded courses. 

 I highly recommend Mary Ann, for drivers of all levels and abilities. She is a very skilled instructor who has the compassion and experience to take you all the way. 

Craig

Mary Anne Dunn. _ Motorcycle Trainer

We employ only the best of the best.

Mary Anne is a highly respected trainer, NZTA IAM certified.

Dance Fitness for Every Type

All shapes, sizes, and fitness levels are welcome!
Join us every Friday night 6pm for a fun, feel-good workout led by a professional dance instructor.

Whether you’re just starting out or love to move, this is your space to dance, laugh, and get fit — your way.

Come along, bring your energy, and let us know what you'd love more of. Let’s groove, move, and feel great — together!

BuyCycles – Affordable Bikes, Healthier Lives

BuyCycles is an exciting Community Focus Trust initiative that provides access to affordable, reliable bicycles for those in need of transport or simply wanting to enjoy the outdoors and improve their wellbeing.

We work in partnership with RAD Bikes and accept donated bikes, which we refurbish and distribute to support healthier, more independent lifestyles. Whether it’s getting to work, school, or just getting out in the fresh air, a bike can make all the difference.

As a registered supplier to the Government, we also run a special programme to help people on benefits purchase a bike through small, manageable weekly payments — making active transport truly accessible to everyone.

Got a bike you no longer use? Donate it to BuyCycles — and help us get more people rolling toward better health and freedom.

Autism Connect Group

Autism Parent & Carer Support Group

You're not alone — and you don’t have to navigate the journey by yourself.

This is a safe, welcoming support group for parents and carers of children or family members on the Autism Spectrum. Hosted by a parent with lived experience, it's a space to share stories, swap ideas, access resources, and simply connect with others who truly get it.

A place to feel heard, understood, and supported.

Free tea, coffee, and sweet treats provided.

Community Focus Trust House

We’d love to meet you — come as you are.

Loopy Tunes – Music & Movement for Preschoolers

In partnership with Empower Church, we’re thrilled to see our Loopy Tunes St Albans group continue to grow and thrive in the community!

This fun, engaging music and movement session is designed especially for preschoolers and their caregivers. Each term has its own theme, with a consistent program that helps tamariki become familiar with the songs and routines — building confidence, rhythm, and connection.

Thursdays at 9:30 AM (during school terms)
Empower Church, St Albans
$3.00 per session or $30.00 per term

Come sing, move, and connect — all are welcome!

Need a Helping Hand? We’re Here for You.

We offer low-cost, practical support from experienced, police-checked staff, whether it’s for a one-off job or ongoing weekly help.

Our services include:

✔️ House cleaning & ironing

✔️ Gardening & odd jobs

✔️ Supermarket shopping

✔️ Friendly home visits & companionship

✔️ And much more

No task is too small or too large, we’re here to help individuals and families in our community live more comfortably and stay connected.

This is also a great way for others to give back, by offering time and support to those who need it most.

Call Suzi on 020 488 1889 to learn more or to refer someone in need.

Cognitive Game Day – Fun for All Ages, Minds, and Memories

Our Cognitive Game Days are open to everyone — from the very young to the young at heart! It's a friendly, welcoming space where people of all ages come together to learn, teach, and enjoy games that stimulate the brain and spark connection.

We play a mix of classic favourites and new challenges, helping keep our minds active while having fun. Whether you're here to improve memory, boost mental sharpness, or just enjoy good company, there's a place for you.

It’s more than just games — it’s a space where everyone belongs, where stories are shared, laughter flows, and people feel safe, supported, and socially connected.

All are welcome. Come join the fun — and keep your brain buzzing!

Call 0204881889 for more information

Affordable Weddings with Heart – Where Community Comes Together

At Community Focus Trust (CFT), we believe everyone deserves a beautiful wedding — no matter their budget. That’s why we offer affordable wedding services tailored to you. Whether you want us to handle everything or just need a little help, you choose how involved you want to be.

Our weddings are hosted at our charming Victorian-era house, currently being lovingly restored to its former glory with the help of our incredible community. From donated flowers and vintage tablecloths to classic cars offered for free use, our neighbours have come together to help make every wedding special.

It’s more than a venue, it’s a celebration of love, community, and collaboration. At CFT, we bring people’s talents and generosity together to create memorable events where everyone feels valued and part of something meaningful.

Let us help make your special day beautiful, affordable, and truly yours.

Hair dressing Salon

We’re excited to announce that our new hairdressing salon is now complete and open, a beautiful space designed to serve both brides and the wider community.

Brides can now enjoy access to our salon facilities as part of their special day, with professional makeup available from our in-house beauty therapist for just $40 per person. Or if preferred, you’re welcome to bring your own makeup artist.

But this space is more than just for weddings, it’s a community hair salon where everyone is welcome. We proudly partner with other local trusts and community providers, including the Salvation Army, to offer free or low-cost haircuts for those who might not otherwise be able to afford one.

No pressure. No judgement. Just a fresh, tidy haircut in a safe, welcoming environment.

At CFT, we believe everyone deserves to feel good and sometimes, a simple haircut can make all the difference.

Hobby Sheds – Where Skills, Stories, and Friendships Are Built

Our Men’s and Women’s Hobby Sheds are welcoming spaces where people of all ages come together to build, create, repair, and learn. Whether it’s woodworking, crafting, fixing things, or trying something new, the sheds offer hands-on opportunities to share knowledge and learn practical skills.

But they’re about more than just making things — they’re about connection.

Many of our older generation face loneliness, while our younger people are eager to learn traditional skills that are fading fast. At the sheds, they meet in the middle: the young help with tech, while elders pass on valuable old-school knowledge.

It’s a place where mutual respect, laughter, and learning thrive — a win-win for everyone involved.

At CFT, we’re proud to provide spaces where community grows stronger, one project and one conversation at a time.

Coming Soon: Community Café & Barista Training Hub

From Supermarket to Sustainability – A New Chapter for CFT

When funding for our community supermarket came to an end, we knew we had to adapt in order to continue serving our community. Rather than stepping back, we chose to diversify and innovate — creating new community-focused enterprises under the CFT umbrella.

These new initiatives will help us become less reliant on external grants by generating our own income, while still delivering meaningful services to those who need them most.

As part of this shift, the former supermarket container will be transformed into a vibrant community café — a welcoming space that not only provides food and connection but also supports training and employment pathways.

At Community Focus Trust, we believe in resilience, creativity, and putting people first. By repurposing what we have, we’re building a stronger, more sustainable future for all. We’re excited to share that our new outdoor café is on the way! Designed with families in mind, it will sit alongside our inclusive playground — so parents and caregivers can relax with a coffee while keeping an eye on their kids at play.

But this café is more than just a place to grab a drink — it will also double as a barista training space, offering hands-on learning for anyone wanting to gain barista skills and hospitality experience.

Whether you're here for a cuppa, connection, or career growth, our café will be a welcoming space for all.

Watch this space — the kettle’s almost on!

CAP Money Course

When you use CAP Money principles your money goes further. It’s almost like getting a pay rise! Three 90-minute sessions is all it takes and the course is completely free.

We run courses throughout the year, helping you to plan your budget.

Next course starts at our Community House.