August 2026 Auckland Caregiver News

Kia ora e hoa mā,  

You may know that from 1 July there have been a couple of changes to the regions I cover. If we have not met or connected since I was last covering the Auckland region, then “kia ora”. Here’s a little bit about me:

I come from the Waikato (I grew up in Ōtorohanga and Kirikiriroa – gumboots, calf clubs and early mornings were the norm) and I currently live in Tāmaki Makaurau. I’ve been part of the CFA team for five years this September and love being able to support caregivers to do what they do. I’m a little obsessed with date and orange scones, I gravitate to green spaces to recharge after a full-on day, I rarely stick to a recipe when cooking and would happily avoid vacuuming for the rest of my life. I enjoy connecting with our caregiver members in person and over the phone, so don’t be a stranger, feel free to reach out for a chat or support when and as you need to.

TRAINING

Our latest online self-directed course, What is Blocked Trust?, offers some guidance for supporting tamariki who might resist comfort or connection even in the most caring homes.  

Blocked trust can develop when tamariki have experienced early trauma, neglect, or disrupted attachment, making it difficult for them to feel safe, trust others, or form secure relationships. As a result, they may appear withdrawn, defensive, highly independent, or reluctant to accept support. 

This course will help you understand how blocked trust develops, recognise its signs, and respond with practical, compassionate strategies grounded in Dyadic Developmental Practice (DDP).  

Registrations for this course intake close on Friday 7 August. Click below to register, or to find out more about our caregiver training. 

EVENTS

As mentioned previously, this year we are excited to be celebrating 50 years of standing alongside caregivers. We have already been sharing inspiring stories from some of the people whose dedication and vision have helped shape Caring Families Aotearoa over the past 50 years, as well as some of the presentations from the wonderful speakers we have had at our conferences. We’ve also launched our 50th Anniversary video, which tells the story of our growth and milestones over the years. 

We would now like to share with you that we are planning 50th Celebration Catch-Ups with our Support Groups around the motu, plus we have an exciting monthly competition for you to win one of five luxury gift bags and you can also register to receive a little thank you gift in the post.  

Please look out for communications about the 50th Birthday Celebrations or click here for more.

I’m getting stuck into planning events for the next year (1 July 2026 –30 June 2027). If you’d like to connect with other caregivers in your local area and have an idea for an event, please share your ideas: christiem@caringfamilies.org.nz

SUPPORT

North Shore Support Group 
Date: Friday 7 August (we meet on the first Friday of the month)
Time: 10.30am
Venue: Columbus Coffee, Mitre 10 Mega, 35 Colin Chester Drive, Silverdale
RSVP: by phone or text to Gail 021 071 6840

Manukau/South Auckland
Date: Tuesday 18 August
Time: 10am
Location: Cafe Miko at Auckland Botanic Gardens, 100 Hill Road, Manurewa
Please RSVP to Christie (027 538 9691) 

Come along for a drink and chat with other caregivers who live in and around Manurewa.

Don’t forget, you can call me for support or if you need someone to talk to – 027 538 9691 or email  christiem@caringfamilies.org.nz

My hours of work are 8am-4pm Monday to Friday. 

Or you can call our national office 0800 693 323. 

Tiaki i a koutou anō, look after yourselves!  
Christie