The New Zealand Government has announced a $20 million investment from the Budget 2025 contingency fund to expand and strengthen parenting support services across the country. The initiative aims to help more families access evidence-based programmes that support children’s learning, development and wellbeing.
The funding will focus on improving early childhood outcomes, particularly during the first 2,000 days of a child’s life. Officials say this period is critical for long-term cognitive, emotional and social development, with strong evidence showing that positive parenting practices during early years can have lasting benefits.
Half of the funding will be used to enhance system-wide parenting support services, while the remaining $10 million will be allocated through the Social Investment Fund to support families with higher and more complex needs. The goal is to ensure a balanced approach that combines universal access with targeted intervention for vulnerable households.
As part of the package, two established programmes—Triple P Positive Parenting and Mellow Parenting (Hoki ki te Rito)—will be expanded. These programmes are internationally and locally recognised for improving parenting skills and child development outcomes, particularly in families experiencing stress, trauma or additional challenges.
The investment also includes the reinstatement of Tākai, a national parenting platform that provides trusted information and resources for parents, caregivers and professionals supporting families.
Government officials stated that the initiative is designed to strengthen support across the full spectrum of need, from general parenting guidance to intensive, targeted interventions. Implementation of the expanded services is already underway, with further rollout expected over the coming year.
The programme forms part of broader efforts to reduce child poverty and improve long-term wellbeing outcomes for children and families across New Zealand.
