Birthright New Zealand

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Birthright New Zealand

Kia whakapai te oranga tanga o na whanau matua tahi. Birthright Hastings became an Incorporated Society in March, 1956.

Birthright works in partnership with families, particularly those led by one person, to provide practical and expert support to create a pathway for success for all family members. Birthright was formed in Hastings on 23 November, 1955 by Peter Gifford and the Hastings Junior Chamber of Commerce. The aim was to form a voluntary organisation to support and care for the children of one parent families in the community. Birthright went on to become a national body throughout New Zealand. Today, Birthright comprises of a National Office and 11 affiliate organisations around the country. Each of our affiliates offer a range of social services for children and families within the local community. New Zealand has one of the highest rates of single parent led families in the OECD, and this is continuing to increase. The demand for our services continues to grow. We deliver our quality services to communities with the generous support of funders, private businesses, as well as government funding. A number of activities offered by Birthright are only possible with the active support of our donors, whose generosity is an ongoing source of appreciation and inspiration in the organisation.

01/10/2026

Life can feel overwhelming at any age, and having the right support and connection around you can help build the confidence to move forward.

This is one young person’s story of navigating social anxiety, stepping outside their comfort zone and finding their way through. The reflections in the video show how powerful it is when someone simply backs you, highlighting his shift from quiet isolation to genuine confidence. The insight that people’s reactions fade and aren’t a barrier to connection reflects growing resilience and a stronger sense of self.

Kauri's journey signals the impact of steady, non‑judgemental support. Whether that backing came from a mentor, a kaimahi, or someone in his life, the message is clear 'feeling backed creates safety and safety creates confidence'.

The video also reinforces Birthright’s relational approach and stands as a good example of the everyday relationship‑based mahi across our affiliates.

Created as part of Birthright New Zealand’s Digital Storytelling Workshop, supporting rangatahi to develop the skills and confidence to share authentic stories on their own terms.

A huge thank you to Chorus for funding this kaupapa, and to Youth Space for helping us bring these stories to life 💚

https://support.birthright.org.nz/

30/09/2026

Sometimes, having someone in your corner changes everything.

We help families build confidence, find clarity during life's challenges, and create meaningful connections that make moving forward feel possible.

One step at a time. Together.
https://birthright.org.nz/

26/09/2026

A house fire. Homelessness. Starting over in a new town with a young family.

When life felt overwhelming, Birthright provided practical support, budgeting advice, community connections and a helping hand to get back on track. Sometimes the greatest difference is knowing someone cares and that you're not facing it alone.

For 70 years, Birthright has walked alongside families through some of life's toughest moments, helping them find stability, connection and hope for the future.

Services and programmes vary between Birthright affiliates. The support shared in this story reflects the experience of the individual and services available may differ in your local area.

21/09/2026

In this real and raw story, Adrian reflects on what that support meant to him, the impact it had on his life, and shares some advice from everything he’s learned along the way.

After Adrian's his parents migrated to Aotearoa New Zealand, he lost his father at a young age. Through the challenges that followed, Birthright was there, supporting him and his mum, creating opportunities, and helping him experience what he describes as getting his “birth right” back.

Stories like his are part of Birthright’s history and we know there are many more out there.

Has Birthright helped you or your whānau? Fill in our short survey and share your story with us 💛

14/09/2026

Maraea from Single Parent Services Waikato shares a karakia with us in te reo Māori for Te Wiki o te Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Māori. Ngā mihi ki a koe, Maraea 💚

At Birthright, we believe strong whānau are built through connection, belonging and identity, and language is an important part of that. Kia Kaha te Reo Māori!

09/09/2026

Every family's journey is different, so the support we offer is too.

From parenting support and counselling to practical assistance, advocacy, programmes and community connections, we're here to help families build stronger foundations for the future.

Find out what support is available in your local area.
https://birthright.org.nz/

27/08/2026

Some stories stay with us long after they've happened.

After losing her husband, one mother was left to raise four children alone while facing overwhelming financial hardship. With support from Birthright, she was able to rebuild her life and create a future for her family.

What makes this story particularly powerful is that the impact didn't stop there. Years later, the kindness and support shown to one family inspired others around them to give back, support Birthright, and help other families facing difficult times.

It's a reminder that support doesn't just change lives in the moment. Its impact can be felt for generations.

Services and programmes vary between Birthright affiliates. The support shared in this story reflects the experience of the individual and services available may differ in your local area.

19/08/2026

Sometimes support looks like practical help, like learning how to plant out a new garden 🌱

Birthright creates opportunities for whānau to connect, learn new skills and build confidence whether it's a vege growing day, a parenting programme or simply having someone to turn to, these moments help families grow stronger, more connected and more resilient.

Services and programmes vary between Birthright affiliates. The support shared in this story reflects the experience of the individual and services available may differ in your local area.

12/08/2026

New Zealand can do better for our children.

Recently, the Children's Commissioner described New Zealand's child poverty figures as a "national shame". We think she’s right.
Around 170,000 children are living in material hardship. That means children going hungry, living in cold homes, and families facing impossible choices every day.

It doesn't have to be this way.

At Birthright New Zealand, we believe supporting children early isn't just the right thing to do, it's also the smart thing to do. When families get help before problems become crises, children do better and our country is stronger for it.

With an election coming up, we're asking every political party to make four practical commitments for children and families in the first 100 days of the next Government.

This isn't about party politics. It's about outcomes for children.
Every child deserves the chance to thrive.

New Zealand can do better.

If you agree, please add your voice by signing our petition.
https://cj9uonploet.typeform.com/to/Gb30jcaU

06/08/2026

Local people. Local knowledge. Local support.

Each Birthright affiliate is independently run by people who understand the needs of their own community, while being part of a trusted national network.

Support that's close to home, when you need it most.

https://birthright.org.nz/

Address

PO Box 145, Napier, New Zealand
Wellington
4140

Website

http://www.birthright.org.nz/

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