The Kidspot New Zealand Au Pair of the Year has been announced!
Femke Meyer, from Germany, was nominated by her New Zealand Host Family, the McConnochies, of Ashburton. 2012 marks the
first year the New Zealand Au Pair of the Year award has been run to help recognise a growing childcare sector in New
Zealand.
Of a total 36 nominations, Kidspot’s editor, Julie Scanlon, chose Femke as the winner based on her Host Family’s
heart-warming story of dedication to 2 year old Maggie. “Femke was an exceptional carer for two year old Maggie, guiding
her through some major milestones and imparting some of her culture and sweet nature. She also became an integral part
of her host family, stepping in to assist with maturity and compassion when a family illness struck unexpectedly.
Femke's musical talent has fostered a love of music in little Maggie and she even wrote an amazing song for her.”
According to the International Au Pair Association (IAPA) survey, last year New Zealand went from being the 12th to the
8th most popular country in the world for Au Pairs to go to. Cecilia Robinson, Au Pair Link’s founder and 2012 Her
Businesswoman of the Year, says that the growth is due to the affordability and cultural experience that Au Pair
childcare offers kiwi families.
Femke has won a $500 cash prize (as she has returned back home to Germany), while the McConnochie family have won a free
Au Pair placement with Au Pair Link, the award’s sole sponsor.
Robinson says, “With the growth of Au Pair childcare in New Zealand, we feel that these awards are a fantastic way to
recognise the amazing contribution that thousands of Au Pairs make to the everyday lives of kiwi kids and their
families.”
ENDS