2 June 2005

New CAPS NZ CEOs champion children's views

Liz Kinley and Tau Huirama have been appointed CEO and Kaiwhakahaere for Child Abuse Prevention Services NZ.

Ms Kinley and Mr Huirama bring vast experience in the social services sector as well as a bi-cultural perspective to CAPS NZ.

CAPS NZ is the national umbrella organisation for agencies who work with children and families to prevent child abuse. It has 13 member agencies.

"Through Children's Eyes" is the vision that Ms Kinley and Mr Huirama bring to their new role. They are committed to working bi-culturally and effectively to improve outcomes for New Zealand children, by ensuring that the view "through children's eyes" is never lost sight of.

"When people think of children, when people are developing policy, when people are thinking of a safer home, as adults we need to ask ourselves what would that look like through children's eyes?

"If we think of strong and safe families, what would that look like through children's eyes? When we are supporting parents to be the best they can be what will that mean through children's eyes?"

"This is our goal as Chief Executive and Kaiwhakahaere for CAPS NZ."

Ms Kinley's and Mr Huirama's joint experience covers the spectrum of New Zealand's social services.

Mr Huirama is of Tainui descent and has a background in bi-cultural development, counselling and social services. He has worked extensively with children and also in prisons. He has been National Maori manager for National Network of Stopping Violence Services for the last six years.

Ms Kinley has a background in education, child protection social work and family violence prevention in both the Government and non-Government sectors. She has 30 years experience as a manager and social worker, including six years as general manager of professional services for Relationship Services. Most recently she has worked on Government family violence prevention projects.

CAPS NZ Chairperson Jackie Hill said the CAPS Board is thrilled to appoint two such experienced and visionary people to lead the organisation.

"New Zealand has a poor record for child abuse and a high rate of child murders. Our agencies work to prevent child abuse and we are excited about the work we will be able to do with Liz and Tau," she said.

They take up their new role on 5 July.

ENDS

© Scoop Media