Child Development Team

Assessment and therapy service for children

The Child Development Team (CDT) provides assessment and therapy services for children aged 0 - 15 who have a physical, sensory or intellectual disability and those with, or at risk of, developmental delay.

Rotorua:

Children's Health Hub, Te Aka Mauri, 1127 Haupapa St, Rotorua

Monday to Friday  8am to 4.30pm

Phone:  07 343 5000

Taupō 

Taupō Hospital, Kotare St, Taupō

Monday to Friday 8am to 4.30pm

Phone:  07 376 1004

 What we do

What we do depends on what you and your child needs. It may include:

  • An initial or screening appointment to see what your child and whānau need
  • Assessment
  • Assistance with diagnosis of some developmental conditions alongside the paediatricians
  • Therapy and support
  • Advice and education
  • Working together with Learning Support at the Ministry of Education to provide a streamlined service for families
  • Advice and applications for equipment or changes to your home to support your child
  • Referrals to other services such as for hearing tests, or disability support

Our team

We are a multidisciplinary team consisting of: Team Leader, Referral Coordinator, Visiting Neurodevelopmental Therapists (Occupational Therapists or Physiotherapists specialising in child development and special needs), Speech Language Therapists, Psychologist, ASD co-ordinator, Paediatricians, Therapy Assistant and Administration Support.

Our mission

To provide optimal outcomes for children with developmental needs and their families.

The CDT is a multidisciplinary team providing comprehensive assessment, intervention and support.

Our vision

"Excellence in developmental therapy services in partnership with children and their families."

Our values

  • Empowering and working in partnership with families
  • Respecting cultural values
  • Working collaboratively with others
  • Financial and Clinical Service accountability
  • Professional integrity
  • Maintaining standards of best practice 

Referrals

We accept written referrals from health, educational professionals and social agencies working with children living within the Te Whatu Ora Lakes service area.

We have close links with the Te Whatu Ora Lakes Infant, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (iCAMHS) and Ministry of Education (MOE) Special Education.

Referrers are informed of the outcome of the referral meeting.

If a referral is not accepted, reasons are stated and the referral is redirected as appropriate.

All referrals should be sent to:

Email: Outpatient1.Referrals@lakesdhb.govt.nz

Fax:  07 349 7994

Mail:  Referral Centre, Rotorua Hospital, Private Bag 3023, Rotorua Mail Centre, Rotorua 3046

Referrals can be submitted on the referral form or a written letter provided it has all the information required.

Click here for Guidelines for Referrals. 

Exclusions

  • ACC clients
  • Short term acute illness
  • Terminal illness or personal health needs
  • No current NZ residency status
  • Specific learning needs or primary behaviour problems
  • Access to curriculum at primary and secondary school levels (MOE)

Please telephone the CDT Administrator on (07) 343 5000 if you would like to discuss the appropriateness of a referral.

Our Services