Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Service — Canterbury

The Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) Cancer Service helps to coordinate cancer care for young people aged between 12 and 24 in Canterbury — Waitaha and the top half of the South Island.

On this page

Contact us

If you or someone you know is aged 12 to 24 with a cancer diagnosis and want to find out more about the service contact:

Louise Sue
AYA Cancer Key Worker

Where to find us

The service is based at Christchurch Hospital.

Services we provide

The AYA Cancer Key Worker follows all rangatahi diagnosed with cancer from high suspicion of cancer through to surveillance, survivorship or palliation.

The level of support that each rangatahi receives is triaged based on diagnosis, treatment, and their unique support needs.

The AYA Cancer Service aims to work with rangatahi, their whānau, and their health care team to make sure their needs are met and that they understand the information being given to them. They will also:

  • provide emotional support as you, your family and friends deal with a cancer diagnosis, treatment and life after cancer
  • look at how they can help you and your family with any financial, work or education concerns 
  • help you deal with any changes in relationships you may experience
  • connect you with support services available for you and your family in your area, if you want them to 
  • help you figure out the hospital and medical systems. They can help you talk to your medical team, family, friends, other agencies, work or your education provider about your needs and concerns
  • help with any accommodation needs for you and your family while you receive treatment
  • provide you with fun stuff if you have to come and stay on the ward at Christchurch Hospital
  • work with you and your loved ones with any end of life matters, if this is needed
  • provide fertility preservation education, support and facilitation.

Your key worker also works with organisations like:

For more information on adolescent and young adult cancer visit:

Referral information

If you are a health professional wishing to refer a young person to this service, email: