Did you explore other types of caregiving?

We eventually moved to Tauranga, where we managed another Family Group Home for six years. During that time, we met a young man who really needed bespoke care; he was at his most stable when he was with us. We took him into our long-term care from the age of 16 to 22, and another young person who was struggling with placements. When we took a break from Family Group Homes, we became permanent caregivers of an eleven-year-old boy, Albert. That small boy, who came from a dysfunctional background, is now a strong and thoughtful 45-year-old man. With consistent love and care, he’s come out the other end.

Can you tell us about your experience with the [then] New Zealand Family and Foster Care Federation?

I became a member of the Waikato Foster Care Association when I was a young caregiver at Silverdale Family Home. Back then, Family Group Homes were quite a big thing, but it could be an isolating role. Other Family Home caregivers became your anchor. At the monthly Association meetings, I would receive support from experienced caregivers, who helped to get me through any frustrations, back to where I needed to be. I made some good friendships. The meetings also gave me an insight into caregiver rights and relevant legislation.

The annual conferences hosted by the NZ Family and Foster Care Federation were more than just professional gatherings — they were a lifeline. These events brought together caregivers from across the country, creating a space where stories were shared, challenges were understood, and lifelong friendships were formed. My husband and I looked forward to these conferences each year, knowing we’d be surrounded by people who truly understood the heart and complexity of caregiving.

In the late 1990s, with the support of many passionate individuals, we established the Bay of Plenty Foster Care Association — a milestone that marked a new chapter in regional caregiver support.

In 2006, I was honoured to join the Federation professionally as its first Regional Coordinator, for the Central North region. At the Federation’s conference that year, it transpired that many caregivers across the country wanted a Regional Coordinator. So, the role turned into one of Regional Community Liaison, to respond to the need for support groups across the country. I worked alongside Gaylene Lawrence, our visionary Executive Officer, Toni Hewett in administration, and Tina Grubba who led Allegation Support. Our head office was humble — a small relocatable tucked behind Gaylene’s property in Havelock North — but our mission was anything but small.

One of our most impactful initiatives was the expansion of caregiver support groups. What began as a handful of networks quickly grew into a vibrant web of regional communities, each offering connection, advocacy, and practical support. As the regions flourished, so too did the role of the Regional Coordinator, evolving to meet the growing needs of caregivers across Aotearoa.

Education was another cornerstone of our work. The pilot of the Certificate in Whānau, Family and Foster Care was a proud moment, offering caregivers a formal qualification that recognised their expertise and commitment. While the Diploma pathway didn’t gain the traction we’d hoped for, the success of the certificate programme was a testament to the professionalism and dedication of those in the caregiving community. By the time I left the organisation in 2010, there were five Regional Coordinators who were employed to support the training of caregivers.

One of the most unforgettable experiences of my career was attending the IFCO (International Foster Care Organisation) conference in Dublin, Ireland. Alongside a small group of caregivers, I had the privilege of representing our community on a global stage. The opportunity was transformative — not only for the knowledge we gained, but for the deep connections we formed with others who shared our passion for child wellbeing. It was a reminder that while our work is local, our impact is global.

As I reflect on these years, I am filled with gratitude — for the people, the progress, and the purpose that has shaped this journey. My hope is that others will be inspired to step into this space, knowing that they too can be part of something extraordinary.

In your eyes, what makes Caring Families Aotearoa so special?

It is the unique opportunity for caregivers to connect, to feel supported and not isolated. Caregiving is a lot easier to manage when you are understood. As a foster parent, you have to be quite resilient in what you hear and see – and how to act. What helped us get through it was having good people around us that understood our “why”.

What message would you like to leave with our caregiver members?

Throughout my journey, one motto has remained close to my heart — a phrase that captures the essence of caregiving: “Ordinary people doing extraordinary work.” This simple yet powerful statement reflects the spirit of every caregiver I’ve had the privilege to work with. We are not defined by titles or accolades, but by the quiet, consistent, and courageous acts of love and support we offer every day.

I get frustrated when I hear people say, “I’m just a caregiver”. You are so much more than that. Own your role – it is such an important role to the people in your care. You stand in your own mana. You give love and guidance to a young person so they can become something more.

The worth of caregiving is under-estimated. It takes a toll. We hold traumatic young lives in the palms of our hands and deal with them every day. If you are one of those people that can be someone’s light at the end of their dark tunnel, you are quite remarkable.