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New Zealand Carer Strategy

The New Zealand Carers’ Strategy, introduced in 2008, is a partnership between the government and the Carers Alliance and is supported by action plans.

The vision for Carers in New Zealand is that our society is one that values individuals, families, whānau who support others who need help with their everyday living, and this will be achieved when:

  • Carers have choices and opportunities to participate in family life, social activities, employment and education
  • Carers’ voices are heard in decision-making that affects them.

Mahi Aroha – Carers’ Strategy Action Plan 2019-2023

The latest Mahi Aroha - Carers' Strategy Action Plan 2019-2023 external URL  was published in December 2019.

Mahi Aroha recognises, values, and supports carers as an investment in New Zealand’s future. As more people become Carers, we must invest in support for Carers.

Mahi Aroha responds to what Carers have said mattered most to them. The need for Carers to be identified, recognised and valued for their contribution; improving the way carers can navigate the support and services available to them; supporting their wellbeing; improving their pathways to employment and training.

As noted in Mahi Aroha, Government departments and Crown entities provide a wide range of services and supports and oversee the development and review of policies that are relevant to carers.

Navigating the various pathways and connections and finding relevant information for carers and the people they care for, are also recognised as challenges.

The NZ Carers Alliance and Carers NZ

  • The New Zealand Carers' Alliance external URL : Established in 2004, is a consortium of 47 national not for profit organisations striving for better support and recognition for New Zealand’s hundreds of thousands of family, whānau carers.
  • Carers NZ external URL : Established in the early 1990s by and for family carers, acts as the national peak body providing information, advice, learning and support for carers in its network and serves as the secretariat for the Carers Alliance.

If you would like more information on the New Zealand Carers' Strategy external URL , please visit the Ministry of Social Development's website.