Green Prescriptions

Making sure you are physically active is important for the health and wellbeing of you and your whānau. Being active every day can help you feel good, can help you be a healthy weight, can promote good sleep and can reduce the risk of becoming ill.

There are lots of ways you can be active, it’s really a matter of choosing what you enjoy, for example, walking, swimming, dancing, gardening, or having fun with your family at the local park or beach. If you need a bit of extra support though, Green Prescriptions are a great idea, as you will be able to get some good advice from a health professional.

If this is something that you feel would help you then do get in touch with your GP or practice nurse. who will be able to tell you more. Alternatively, you can call 0800 ACTIVE (228483). The Green Prescription initiative is supported by the Ministry of Health.

Once you have received a Green Prescription from your doctor or nurse, a trained support person will get in touch with you to get you started on a physical activity programme that will work for you and your whānau. You can also get advice on good nutrition, and there may even be the opportunity to meet up with others in your community who are also looking to get more active. You can find more information on the Ministry of Health website at www.moh.govt.nz/greenprescription