Wanganui

The Sisters of Compassion have made the difficult decision to close the buildings from which the Aubert Home of Compassion operates in Wanganui. This decision was made necessary by engineering reports which showed more than 67% of the building would not be safe in a moderate earthquake. The decision was reached with great sadness, but it was the only prudent and responsible course. The safety of our people – all of those living and working in these buildings – must be the first priority.

The buildings need to be vacated as soon as possible in order to ensure the safety of all those who live and work here. The staff and directors of Aubert Home of Compassion are working with the Wanganui District Health Board to find alternative accommodation for the residents. Many residents have already moved to other places of care. By the end of March most of the residents will have moved to other Homes.

This news is a great blow to us all, and we know the loss will be felt not only by ourselves, the staff, residents and their families, and by the Catholic community; but also throughout the wider Wanganui community.

Unfortunately repairing the Home and villa would be uneconomic, and would still mean all residents would have to leave the home in the interim as it is not safe to remain.

The Sisters of Compassion are deeply aware of its ties and legacy with Wanganui. We have made it clear that the proceeds of the sale of the land and buildings will stay in Wanganui to assist the elderly, and the Home’s Board of Directors is in discussions about how that might happen.

Sister Margaret Anne Mills
March 2012

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