Mercy Hospice has a long and deeply rooted history in compassionate care, shaped by the mission and values of the Sisters of Mercy and their commitment to supporting people who are sick, vulnerable, or nearing the end of life.
Mercy Hospice was one of the first hospices in New Zealand, established by the Sisters of Mercy.
The Sisters of Mercy were founded in Dublin, Ireland, by Catherine McAuley.
Led by Sister Cecilia Maher, the Sisters of Mercy arrived in Aotearoa New Zealand at the invitation of local Māori women, and began their work in Auckland providing education, healthcare, and community support.
Early hospice care began with the opening of a “Hospice for the Dying” linked to Mercy Hospital, marking the start of dedicated end‑of‑life care services within the Mercy mission.
St Joseph’s Mercy Hospice became part of Mercy Hospital, strengthening the integration of hospice care within the wider Mercy healthcare system.
Mercy Hospice Auckland Limited was formally established, reflecting the continued growth and development of hospice services in the region.
Mercy Hospice moved to its current site at College Hill in Ponsonby and was officially opened as a dedicated hospice facility. The building, formerly used by the Sisters of Mercy, was donated to support the development of hospice services.
Now known as Mercy Hospice, the College Hill site is the base for a large team of community nurses and a 8-bed inpatient unit. The team has grown to include 8 retail stores, a fundraising team, family support, learning and development, and a huge army of volunteers.
Mercy Hospice provides specialist palliative care to patients and families across Auckland, delivering services both in the community and in its inpatient unit. Its work continues to be guided by the founding values of compassion, dignity, and service established by the Sisters of Mercy. The hospice remains sustained by the contribution of staff, volunteers, and community supporters who continue to uphold its long tradition of care.