Community Tips: WanderSearch

Ciara OCallaghan • May 2, 2022

Do you have people in your whānau, community or network at risk of 'wandering'?

WanderSearch is a a technological development aimed at keeping people with cognitive impairments safe. It is delivered by not-for profit organisations, in partnership with NZ Police.

What is WanderSearch?

The WanderSearch system provides small devices (that can be hidden, carried like keyrings or as necklaces) that can be tracked by trained Police and/or Land Search and Rescue volunteers if the person goes missing. The idea is to improve safety and peace of mind for people living with cognitive impairments and their families, whānau and communities. It also supports users to live more freely and independently.

Who is WanderSearch for?

It is aimed at any person with a cognitive impairment who may be at risk of going missing. This can include people with Alzheimer’s and dementia as well as people on the autism spectrum or people with Down Syndrome. It is accessible across the motu, with local groups managing the program in different areas.

WanderSearch is seeking charitable funding so that money is not a barrier to individuals and whānau who would benefit from this technology.

How does WanderSearch work?

Each device has its own unique radio-frequency number that can be tracked using specialist technology in the event of a disappearance. The device is not constantly monitored, it can only be located once Police are notified. Devices can be tracked anywhere in New Zealand, even outside cellular reception. The devices do not need charging and are replaced every 3-6 months.

Are there other options for keeping at-risk people safe?

Yes, the Safer Walking Framework Profile is a risk reduction tool designed for anyone who is at risk of going missing when walking. It involves a form and up-to-date photo to be stored so it can be provided to the Police in the event of someone's disappearance. WanderSearch is a further precaution for people at a higher risk of going missing. The Safer Walking website provides further education, resources and tools to protect those at risk of 'wandering'.

Learn more on WanderSearch's website

Click here to find your local group

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Hapori Aotearoa Conference Wrap-Up

By Community Networks • March 10, 2025

Last week Patrick represented CNA at the Hapori Aotearoa – Growing Communities Together in sunny Tauranga presented by Inspiring Communities and the Tauranga City Council. A two-day conference focused on providing practical resources amplifying community development. With each day having multiple concurrent workshops there were difficult (and esciting) choices to be made. The hottest topics were Social Return On Investments / Social Investment, Te Tiriti, and (no surprise) funding within the Sector. There were great speakers and a lot of table korero, spilling of tea, and sharing ideas and resources. Did you know there is a Regional Data Explorer on the Social Investment Agency website ? How might organisations use this to target their mahi and applications? “The Social Investment Agency’s Regional Data Explorer supports access to data for regional and sub-regional decision-making. It brings together 70 datasets or 'indicators' which can be filtered to meet a particular need." Another great workshop (Belinda Gorman ) looked into connecting with businesses to explore various ways of funding. Looking at alignment, how to approach and creating that relationship. One contribution we were able to make was a handy dandy doc on how to use the free version of ChatGPT to create a start – how to create a document that begins your journey on support, sponsorship and funding. Here it is – Using ChatGPT to Get $. And it was a great chance to catch up with Members – SociaLink (also a supporter of the conference); Volunteer Kapiti and Community Networking Trust. It was a time to catch up with friends from other organisations and to make new connections, both strengthening our reach around the Motu. Whilst conferences are expensive, attending can hit many birds with one stone and its important to get out of your own area, headspace to remind yourself that you are not alone in what’s going on; that there are people with ideas around you; and that (while it can be a draining experience) it is a fantastic way to recharge your spirit. We look forward to hosting our Members at our Members’ Only Hui on Friday, 7th November in Te Whanganui-a-Tara /Wgtn for exactly those reasons. Oh, did I mention it’s also our 50th Anniversary celebrations? Patrick Davies, Engagement Officer