CEO Message August 2026
Kia ora koutou,
Caregiving takes many forms. It includes foster caregivers, whānau and kin caregivers, those providing respite or emergency care, and those offering a permanent home for life. However caregiving looks for you, Caring Families Aotearoa is here to stand alongside you.
To better recognise the breadth of caregiving across Aotearoa, and to reflect the important contribution of our sponsors, we have renamed our annual awards the Excellence in Foster and Whānau Care Awards. Nominations are now open for 2027, and I encourage you to put forward someone who deserves to be acknowledged – particularly those who quietly go above and beyond for tamariki, rangatahi and their whānau.
As many of you will know, 2026 marks Caring Families Aotearoa’s 50th anniversary. This is a significant milestone for our organisation, and we are looking forward to celebrating it with you, our valued caregiver members. There are a number of ways to be involved, with more details outlined here. I hope you will join us as we honour our past, celebrate the present, and look ahead to the future of caregiving in Aotearoa.
In the meantime, please remember that support is always available. Our Regional Coordinators are here for you, and they genuinely understand the challenges and rewards of caregiving. If you are unsure about reaching out, I encourage you to take that step. Asking for support is not a sign of weakness – it is a sign of strength, courage and care. You can call us on 0800 693 323 or email enquiries@caringfamilies.org.nz, and we will connect you with someone who will listen and offer some guidance.
Chief Executive, Caring Families Aotearoa