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“People always come in and they try and help care experienced kids sort out their major issues like finding a place to live, but then once that’s done they’re all on their own. They don’t get the support that most ordinary kids have. They’ve got no one to talk to, they’ve got no one to reflect their experiences on or, you know, get some advice.

And that happened to me. I thought I was doing fine, I had no problems, I was hanging out and making friends and all of that. But when we finished high school my friends went off to study and had all these cool experiences and I ended up sort of going into a training flat, learning how to, uh, cook and clean and doing all that.”

If you’re not sure what you want to do after high school – Check out the Youth Service. They support 16 to 19 year olds to find pathways to jobs and an independent future. So if you’re thinking about learning more, getting into training or heading to work, they can help you figure out your next step.

If you want to talk to someone about how you’re feeling – Lifeline have a free phone line that you can call 24/7. If you’re stressed, lonely, depressed or unsure just phone 0800 543 354 to speak with someone who will be able to help.

If you’re keen to go to university or find out more about further education – Have a look at Careers New Zealand for loads of awesome information about courses, locations, degrees, applications and entry requirements, scholarships, dates and heaps more.

If you need financial support while you study – Have a look at StudyLink. They help students make informed choices about their student finance, how to apply for it and manage it online.

Something else? You can Get Support or find out How To.