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About
A specialised professional team with lived experience of addiction and recovery.
Our story
Ocean Hills was founded by Elaine Atkinson, who has enjoyed a healthy and happy recovery from alcoholism for 19 years. Over that time, she has discovered that diligence, compassion, empathy, humour and immense practicality are the hallmarks of a lasting recovery.
After a successful career as a senior manager in the corporate world, in 2019 it was time for Elaine to launch her dream of helping people out of addiction and into recovery through offering a premium, harmonious retreat in the Hawke’s Bay.
Working alongside experienced clinical addiction specialists, Elaine’s lived experience of sobriety helps those who are lost in the darkness of addiction into the light of a new life in recovery.
Elaine looks after guests and most of all, shares her passion for recovery with all who come through the doors at Ocean Hills.
"I want to help people suffering from addiction to find courage,
strength and purpose again. We never give up hope"
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Elaine Atkinson, Ocean Hills Founder
Resources
What is rehab all about?
Going to rehab at Ocean Hills is a big step and many people don't know what to expect. In this we answer commonly asked questions about rehab: What is rehab? Is rehab a holiday or a retreat? What do you do at rehab? Is rehab free? What happens after rehab?
Getting back on the wagon after relapsing
Relapsing after enjoying hard-won sobriety is the fear of every person who struggles with substances. There’s nothing more heartbreaking for you and your loved ones than getting some recovery time under your belt, only to fall back into the addiction cycle again.
Founder Elaine Atkinson's story
Elaine shares her journey from alcohol addiction to long-term sobriety.
6 ways your life gets better in sobriety
People who are struggling with an addiction to alcohol can often feel like it's completely taken over their lives. Their days are ruled by the addiction and their identities are often attached to it. They often feel like giving up drinking alcohol will be impossible and can't imagine life without it.