This month the Government launched the Mahi Aroha Carers’ Strategy Action Plan. It is a Commitment by the Government to better recognise and support the vital contribution of the more than one million carers across Aotearoa New Zealand who provide unpaid care and support to family, whānau and friends.
Family carers play an essential role in communities across Aotearoa, supporting people living with disabilities, chronic health conditions, age related conditions, or recovering from illnesses. We have heard and advocated for many years the challenges that carers face. Financial pressures, impacts on their own health and wellbeing, loneliness and feeling lost and forgotten by the government, in the system and society.
Family carers provide a fiscal benefit to New Zealand providing support work commissioned by the Carers in 2021-2 was valued at $17.6 billion each year. That number is expected to be a conservative number.
This plan has been developed in partnership with the Carers Alliance and representatives from carers’ organisations, including Multiple Sclerosis NZ.
The new plan is focused on improving three areas that carers have consistently told us matter most:
- Recognition and appreciation
- Health and wellbeing
- Financial security
Mahi Aroha isn’t new but this revised version is a new style “rolling action plan” meaning it has no expiry date. This ongoing approach and commitment means the actions and priorities can continue to be reviewed and built on as the needs of carers and communities change.
As a member of the Carers Alliance, Multiple Sclerosis NZ welcomes this important step towards better recognising and supporting the people who care for others across Aotearoa. Family carers are the backbone of support for many people living with MS across Aotearoa. They deserve to live well in their own rights, as well as supported to do their essential work.
This isn’t where the work stops, but gives clarity as to where priorities are now heading. There is still much to do to see changes that MS carers have told us they desperately need. Together with members of the Carers Alliance, Multiple Sclerosis NZ will continue to listen and advocate for the needs of family and whānau carers.
Learn more about Mahi Aroha: mahi-aroha-carers-strategy-action-plan.pdf
Last Updated September 24, 2026