0800 693 323

Allegations: 0800 693 278

events@caringfamilies.org.nz

Caring Family logo, it's turquoise and orange, with acircle shape with Maori pattern inside the logo
Donate Now
  1. Home
  2. National News
  3. CEO Message April 2026

CEO Message April 2026

No one could dispute the fact that we are passionate about our work here at Caring Families Aotearoa. It was great to see so many new connections made, warmth, laughter and stories shared at events during Foster Care Awareness Week and throughout the month of March. Bringing caregivers together like this is inspirational – it reinforces our drive to continue providing the support you all deserve to heal our tamariki in care.

Altogether, we hosted 14 fabulous events across the motu to celebrate caregiving – as well as our Excellence in Foster Care Awards on the national stage. It was a hive of activity, but I hope you felt appreciated and recognised for what you do. Click here to see some highlights from Foster Care Awareness Week.

The Excellence in Foster Care Awards at Parliament almost brought the House down, with over 100 voices united in waiata, cheers of support and applause for our extraordinary recipients. My heartfelt congratulations to you all. As much as we’d love to award each and every one of you, these awards do help us to shine a spotlight on your important mahi and get decision makers talking about caregiver support. You can find out more about the 2026 recipients and see photos from the ceremony here.

I hope you and your loved ones have a lovely break over Easter weekend. Don’t forget to put your clocks back for the end of Daylight Savings on Sunday!

Noho ora mai
(Stay well, look after yourself, goodbye)

Linda Surtees
Chief Executive, Caring Families Aotearoa