Caregiver stories
We interviewed some Oranga Tamariki caregivers from around the country to tell their story and why they chose to become caregivers.
Caregivers come from all backgrounds, and ways of life. Anyone can do it, and the rewards are great – just so long as you have aroha, patience and a desire to learn.
-
Cindy Thom from Blenheim was 1 of 10 caregivers awarded at the Excellence in Foster Care event on Friday 7 March 2025. Open to any New Zealander caring for a child not born to them, awards were given to 7 Oranga Tamariki caregivers.
-
Ngaire began her caregiving journey in 2006 as an emergency caregiver, until she got a phone call from a social worker that said they are looking for a caregiver for a baby. Ngaire instantly responded “of course we will take them in”, and this baby has be…
-
Oranga Tamariki Caregiver Recruitment and Support, Adoption and Care & Protection kaimahi gathered at Grey Lynn site on Wednesday 15 May to thank and farewell one of their caregiving whānau.
-
A recipient of an Excellence in Foster Care Award in 2024, Maxine shares her experiences and what drove her to become a caregiver.
-
A crash course in parenting is how Gabe describes her and husband Caleb’s caregiving journey. Although an overwhelming start, the couple continue to care and show love for tamariki in their region. They always have an open door.
-
Eva is of Ngāti Tūwharetoa descent, and she's looked after her mokopuna for many years, saying “I stepped in as a caregiver because it just seemed like the most natural thing to do”.
-
“It’s just a part of me.” That’s how Jamie Downes of Taumarunui (Te Ātihaunui-a-Papārangi, Ngāti Tūwharetoa) describes being a caregiver.
-
Lesieli is a caregiver with a lot of aroha to give. She shares her whānau and culture with the tamariki she looks after and enjoys helping them try new things.
-
Tina and Dave have been caregiving for 12 years. They live in Pukekohe, Tāmaki Makaurau with the 6 tamariki they look after – 3 boys and 3 girls, 'the perfect match,' jokes Dave. Their ages are 3, 4, 5, 7, 8 and 10 years old.
-
Michelle is a caregiver in Te Whanganui-a-Tara, caring for 5 tamariki – 1 tama and 4 girls, aged between 20 months and 7 years old.
Published: December 8, 2017 · Updated: April 23, 2024