CEO Message March 2026
Happy Foster Care Awareness Week!
During the first week of March, we take time to pause and celebrate all our incredible caregiver members across the motu (country). This month has become one of the true highlights of our year—a special moment to recognise you. Your dedication, resilience, hard work, aroha (love), and unwavering commitment to the tamariki in your care inspires us every single day.
If you haven’t already, we warmly encourage you to sign up for one of our regional events. These gatherings are a chance to connect, be celebrated, and enjoy space with others who understand the journey. You can find all the details here.
As part of Foster Care Awareness Week, we also shine a spotlight on the extraordinary contributions of caregivers through our Excellence in Foster Care Awards. Each year, 10 caregivers or caregiving couples are recognised and treated to a special day in Wellington. This year, on Friday 6 March, we are delighted to be hosting the awards at Parliament—an opportunity to honour these caregivers in a place that symbolises the importance of their mahi to our communities.
While the Awards focus on 10 remarkable individuals and couples, they also serve a wider purpose: to uplift and spotlight caregivers across Aotearoa. Through sharing their powerful stories with media, we hope to honour the experiences, compassion, and strength of every caregiver who opens their heart and home to tamariki.
This week is for you. Thank you for everything you do.
Noho ora mai
(Stay well, look after yourself, goodbye)
Linda Surtees
CEO