Whānau Fun Day – Cromwell

Time

  • 12:00 pm

Date

  • 12/04/2025

Organiser

  • VOYCE

Location

  • Cromwell, Central Otago

Recently, VOYCE – Whakarongo Mai teamed up with our friends at Caring Families Aotearoa to host a special whānau fun day picnic for tamariki and rangatahi with care experience in Cromwell. The gathering took place at the beautiful and peaceful Lowburn Hall in Cromwell — a perfect setting for a day filled with fun, creativity, and meaningful connection.

With the sun shining, the day kicked off with laughter and lots of energy as our tamariki made the most of the playground, built imaginative forts, and unleashed their inner artists painting all kinds of colourful and creative creatures. The space was buzzing with joy and laughter, and it was great to see the children feel comfortable with VOYCE and CFA kaimahi.

Lunch was a hit with everyone, American-style hotdogs served up picnic-style — even the local ducks managed to score a few tasty crumbs!

The day reminded us how important it is to create spaces where our care-experienced young people can just be themselves, have fun, and build connections with others who are in care too. Events like these are about more than just activities — they’re about strengthening community, celebrating identity, and making memories that last.

We’re already dreaming up our next tūhono in this stunning region, and we can’t wait to welcome even more of our care-experienced whānau to join us.

Promise Three: Learning

Education as a gateway to dreams, rangatahi are supported to achieve aspirations.

Promise One: Care

Every tamaiti receives nurturing, protection, and provision, as any good parent would offer.

Promise Five: Voice

Tamariki and rangatahi are involved in decisions that affect them, and their voices are honoured.

Promise Four: Wellbeing

Timely, accessible, and culturally conscious health and mental health services are available to all taiohi.

Promise Two: Stability

Young people in care experience consistency, safety, and a sense of belonging.

Whānau care is where a child is being raised by someone in their whānau or extended family. Often it means a child living with their grandparents – but could also be another family member like an aunt, uncle or older sibling. Whāngai is the traditional Māori practice of whānau care.