The Prime Minister's Oranga Tamariki Awards 2019
Published: December 12, 2019
It was an action packed day celebrating care experienced young people and their achievements on December 10.
Time to reflect and have fun
The annual awards recognise the challenges young people in care have overcome and the huge potential they have.
Twenty-two care experienced young people from all around the country gathered in Wellington on a glorious sunny day with their supporters.
In the lead up to the awards ceremony in the Banquet Hall at Parliament there was plenty of time to make friends. A host of fun activities included brunch by the beach, a visit to Te Papa and crocodile biking along the waterfront.
Afternoon tea with the Prime Minister
Before the formal part of the day, some young people chose to have their hair and make-up done.
This was followed by a highlight for many - an informal chat with the Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern over afternoon tea at the Beehive.
And of course the essential photo session!

The awards ceremony
The ceremony was hosted by youth advocate and former care experienced young person Jennifer Thonrithi. Minister for Children Tracey Martin and Oranga Tamariki Chief Executive Gráinne Moss spoke and presented the awards. Guests were entertained by the impressive soloist Olivia Hubbard and poetry group Ngā Hine Pūkōrero.
Scholarships for the young people were possible due to the generosity of our sponsors Barnardos, Sysdoc, Outward Bound, Vodafone NZ Foundation, Youth Horizons, Open Home Foundation, GFS, Orbit Travel, Blue Star, Princes’ Trust and independent connection and advocacy service VOYCE - Whakarongo Mai.

Bright futures
This year each recipient will be supported by VOYCE - Whakarongo Mai and a kaiwhakamana (mentor) to help guide them to make decisions about their scholarship.
Everyone one of these award-winning rangatahi have a bright future ahead of them. We hope the scholarships will help them achieve their goals.
Congratulations to you all and good luck on your amazing journey!
