Diabetes group education classes — Canterbury Akoranga ā-rōpū mō te mātauranga mate huka

Diabetes group education classes are for anyone with type 2 diabetes who would like to learn more about self-managing their condition.


Who the classes are for

Free diabetes group education classes are available people who live in Canterbury who:

  • have newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes
  • have type 2 diabetes and are on insulin or starting on insulin.

Learn how to manage your diabetes in a friendly, supportive atmosphere.

Your healthcare provider can refer you.


Introduction to type 2 diabetes and how to manage it

This course is for anyone with type 2 diabetes who would like to learn more about self-management. You are welcome to bring along whānau members.

The course covers self-management skills and lifestyle changes to manage type 2 diabetes. It includes information on:

  • complications
  • exercise
  • foot care
  • using insulin
  • goal setting
  • the basics for eating well.

The eating well part of the course covers:

  • carbohydrate foods and how to eat to manage blood glucose levels
  • label reading
  • myth busting
  • use of diabetes food products
  • takeaways and eating out
  • shopping tips.

The course is presented by a diabetes nurse specialist and a diabetes dietitian. There are 2 sessions and each is 2 hours long. The course is held over 2 weeks.

It is usually held 4 times a year at a range of times and locations across the Canterbury region.