This week is a chance to remember the volunteers and chaplains who support and lend a listening ear to hospital patients and their families.
National Hospital Chaplaincy Week runs from September 22 to 29 and will be marked in several ways.
A mask making competition will be held among the Taranaki hospital wards. Judging will take place this Friday at 12.30pm at Barrett's Lounge at Taranaki Base Hospital.
A remembrance service will be held for staff today (Wednesday) at the Hospital Chapel.
"It will be a short 20 minute service where staff who have lost colleagues, family members or are even feeling a sense of loss as the old hospital ward is demolished can come and reflect and be comforted," Catholic chaplain Tony Tooman said.
New Plymouth churches were provided with a resource pack to use during their regular worship services.
Chaplaincy services run in both Taranaki Base Hospital and Hawera Hospital.
Ecumenical chaplain Rev Murray Elliot and Catholic Chaplain Tony Tooman are assisted by 19 volunteers in New Plymouth and another three in Hawera.
"The chaplains' wish to remind groups and organisations they are available to speak to them about the role of hospital chaplains," Mr Tooman said.
"Many people don't realise what a wide role they play in the care of patients, families and staff."
People can support the work of chaplains through donations or legacies.
To find out more visit being there.co.nz.