17 June 2026
Kayla was inspired to start volunteering for Whānau Āwhina Plunket when she saw how impactful support groups could be – even though she had been unable to join a similar group herself.
“I was raising my twins during Covid and we were moving around a lot, so access to support services and groups was quite limited and, in many ways, unrealistic for my situation," she says.
"My experience gave me a real appreciation for the work Plunket does in creating supportive spaces where parents can connect over shared experiences and feel safe, supported, and seen. I love seeing parents build friendships and realise they’re not alone.”
With her twins now six years old, Kayla volunteers as host of the Plunket in the Neighbourhood (PIN) group in Miramar, Wellington. Kayla is studying psychology with an interest in family and child psychology. In her studies, she is looking to better understand where there are gaps in the support available to parents in the early years.
“Much of my passion comes from my own experiences navigating parenthood, which showed me both the value of supportive services and how isolating it can feel when those supports are limited or hard to access.”
This experience is what makes watching connections grow between whānau such a special part of hosting the PIN groups.
I've seen friendships form between parents who may never have met otherwise, and I've had mothers openly share challenges that they had been carrying alone.
“I've seen friendships form between parents who may never have met otherwise, and I've had mothers openly share challenges that they had been carrying alone. We also get to witness the sweet milestones of the little ones and share in those moments of excitement with whānau,” she says.
Returning to Plunket included another special moment as Kayla reconnected with Plunket nurse Fiona, who had supported her as a new parent.
“The kindness and care Fiona showed left a lasting impression that I’ve never forgotten. When I ran into her all these years later, she gave me the biggest hug and quickly asked for updates on the twins. It was a simple interaction, but a gentle reminder of the genuine care she has for the families she works with.”
For Kayla, volunteering is about helping whānau feel less alone.
“Having been a parent who could have benefited from more connection in those early years, and now as a volunteer helping to create those opportunities for others, has made this role especially meaningful. I'm grateful to be part of an organisation that helps families feel supported, connected, and less alone.”
