To eliminate the stigma around perinatal mental health in New Zealand by championing awareness and facilitating best practice in perinatal mental health and wellbeing to ensure all families have access to appropriate information and support.

PADA was formerly the Perinatal Mental Health New Zealand Trust (PMHNZ)

There was no national umbrella organisation for perinatal mental health in New Zealand. A brainstorming day was held in Wellington in June 2009. This was attended by 30 representatives from a range of agencies and organisations connected with perinatal distress issues from around New Zealand. They identified interests in, aims and objectives for a national networking group for Perinatal Distress. A “working group” was conceived and the Perinatal Mental Health New Zealand Trust was born on 3rd February 2011. The organisation grew rapidly and in 2015 it was decided that a more memorable name was needed but one that still reflected our aims. After much thought, argument and finally consensus, the Perinatal Mental Health New Zealand Trust was reborn as PADA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Aotearoa).

To eliminate the stigma around perinatal mental health in New Zealand. 

Treena Cooper 
Operations Manager

I am the Operations Manager for PADA. Having worked for 12 years as a corporate travel consultant, I bring to the Trust valuable organisational and people skills.

I am the organiser of the Seminar Series and looking forward to sharing with you the schedule for 2018. I have two boys aged 11 and 12 so spend lots of time involved in school, sport and scouting activities and I also enjoy decorating cakes.

Melanie Byrne
Website, Social Media & Database Manager

A mum to two girls aged 9 and 12, I feel fortunate to be in a role that allows me to give back to others experiencing perinatal distress.  I’m thrilled to combine previous roles at Plunket, Geneva Healthcare, and Mediaworks, to work in a team motivated to make a difference.

Perinatal distress affects the whole whanau and wider community, and PADA is embracing the power of social media to connect, and equip Health care providers, to improve outcomes for those affected throughout New Zealand.

Denise Graham
Fundraising Manager

I am responsible for coordinating PADA’s fundraising activities with a focus on grants, events and sponsorship.  I have a background in corporate and business management, finance, and fundraising, and these skills will contribute to the amazing work that PADA does throughout Aotearoa.  It’s great to be part of a team who are committed to raising awareness and delivering quality services to new parents suffering anxiety and depression.

I have 3 children and lots of grandchildren who are an integral part of my life and every spare moment is spent with them.  My husband and I own a bakery and café which also keeps us both very busy.

I enjoy boating and fishing, cooking, gardening, and writing stories.

Sharon Vaka
Finance Coordinator

My role as the Financial Co-ordinator is a part-time role of 5 hours per week. I am responsible for all things Financial.  My background is in Hospitality Management which has taken me to many corners of the world. I now specialise in Accounts Management and Human Resources for a variety of small and medium businesses.

I am also mum to two precious primary school aged children.  I am excited to transfer my skills to a PADA which is making a positive difference in the life of Kiwi families.

Liora Noy
PADA Educator