A bigger store with greater impact for Hospice Wairarapa in Masterton
Hospice Wairarapa is taking a big step forward in Masterton, with plans underway to relocate its charity shop to a larger site, enabling the organisation to expand its retail offering and increase its support for the community.
The new store, located in the former Mills Brothers building on the corner of Dixon and Russell Streets, will operate as a larger “super store” concept, creating space for a wider range of goods, including furniture and larger household items.
Relocating to the larger premises is made possible with the generous support of Masterton Trust Lands Trust and their commitment to strengthening the Masterton community.
“This is an exciting step forward for Hospice Wairarapa,” says Gretchen Saulbrey, Chief Executive. “Our retail stores play a vital role in helping keep hospice services free for our community. This move allows us to grow that contribution while creating a better experience for both donors and shoppers.”
The decision to relocate reflects the continued growth of the retail operation. In recent years, Hospice Wairarapa has seen a significant increase in the volume and quality of donations, placing pressure on the existing Queen Street site.
Retail Manager Sam Millward says the current store has simply outgrown its footprint.
“We’ve reached the point where we no longer have the space to do justice to the generosity of our community,” she says. “This new site gives us room to expand what we offer, bring more stock onto the shop floor, and create a safer, more efficient space for sorting and processing donations.”
The larger premises will enable Hospice Wairarapa to stock a broader range of items across all price points and create space to reuse and repurpose donated goods as part of its commitment to the circular economy.
Importantly, the new location also offers ample free parking, making it easier for customers to shop and for donors to drop off goods.
“This is about making the most of every donation,” says Millward. “By having the space to present items well and process them efficiently, we can maximise the funds returned to hospice care.”
Hospice Wairarapa’s retail network contributes sustainable funding to help ensure hospice services remain free of charge for patients and families across the region.
The Masterton move represents a major step in strengthening that model, while also creating an improved shopping and donation experience for the local community.
The existing Masterton Hospice shop will close on 4th May 2026 while the relocation takes place. Visit the new store on Saturday, 9th May 2026, for the opening day celebration.