Child & Family Services
Kaupapa Māori parenting programme offering free, home-based support for hapū māmā and whānau, fostering child development, safety, parenting skills, and whānau wellbeing.
Free for eligible whānau
Hapū māmā and whānau with tamariki under 2 years
Western Bay of Plenty
Family Start is a Kaupapa Māori, child-centred programme providing free, home-based support to hapū māmā and whānau. We support hapū māmā, māmā, pāpā, grandparents, and caregivers with tamariki under 2 years.
The service focuses on improving tamariki health, development, learning, relationships, and safety, while helping whānau build confidence, resilience, and wellbeing.
Support and education includes:
Family Start is voluntary and partnership-based. Our Whānau Workers build open, honest relationships with whānau to improve outcomes for tamariki and support long-term wellbeing.
Family Start works with other agencies but should not be considered an alternative for emergency or crisis from other organisations.
Referrals to Family Start can be made by agencies already working with the whānau. It is recommended that referrals are completed in partnership with whānau, as certain eligibility criteria apply.
For more information about the programme or to discuss whether a referral is suitable, please contact the Family Start team.
This service is available Monday–Friday, 8.00 am–4.30 pm
