Our History
Our Story
Respiratory Support Nelson began as the Nelson Asthma Society, established to support people in our community living with asthma and other breathing conditions.
From the beginning, the organisation was driven by a simple goal- to help people understand their respiratory health and feel confident managing their breathing. Local volunteers and health professionals recognised that many people living with respiratory conditions needed practical support, education, and encouragement to stay active and live well.
Over time, the needs of the community grew, and so did the organisation.
Growing to Support More People
As respiratory health services evolved, the organisation expanded its focus to support people living with a wider range of respiratory conditions, including COPD, bronchiectasis, and other chronic lung conditions.
New programmes were introduced to support people to stay active and manage their breathing more confidently. These included:
• Better Breather exercise classes
• Pulmonary Rehabilitation programmes
• Community education and respiratory resources
These programmes help people build strength, improve their breathing, and connect with others who understand the challenges of living with a respiratory condition.
Becoming Respiratory Support Nelson
As the organisation’s work expanded beyond asthma, the name Respiratory Support Nelson was adopted to better reflect the wider range of support provided to the community.
The new name represents our commitment to supporting people living with all types of respiratory conditions across the Nelson and Tasman region.
While the name has changed, our purpose remains the same- helping people breathe easier and live well.
Supporting Our Community Today
Today, Respiratory Support Nelson continues to support people across the region through a range of community programmes and services.
These include:
• Better Breather exercise classes
• Pulmonary Rehabilitation programmes
• Sing Your Lungs Out
• Respiratory education and support
Our programmes focus on helping people stay active, build confidence, and connect with others while living with a respiratory condition.
We are proud to continue supporting our community and helping people live well with respiratory conditions.
Looking Ahead
Respiratory Support Nelson remains committed to supporting the health and wellbeing of our community.
By working alongside local health services, community organisations, and respiratory specialists, we will continue to develop programmes that help people breathe easier, stay active, and feel supported.