Parents

A parent includes a:

• birth parent
• adoptive parent
• step-parent or partner of your parent
• any other person acting as a parent who is financially responsible for you. This can include family members, whāngai, and some current and former caregivers and legal guardians.

If you're not sure, you can email us to talk about your situation.

Caregivers and guardians who are not parents

A person (including their partner) who is or was your caregiver or legal guardian is not a parent if:

• they are or were paid a Foster Care Allowance, Orphan’s Benefit or Unsupported Child’s Benefit for you, or
• you’re living, or have lived, with them under a Transition Support Living Arrangement through Oranga Tamariki.