Support
No one is meant to do this alone, yet being a solo mum can often feel exactly like that. The weight of parenting, work, finances, and decision-making all rests on your shoulders, especially if you have no family & friends close by. But even then - also the strongest mums need support.
Support comes in many forms and this page is here to provide an overview of the different types of support available, including emotional, parenting & childcare and other practical support.
Childcare & Parenting Help
Plunket
Plunket offers practical parenting guidance, health checks for children, and parenting workshops. They also provide advice on feeding, sleep, and development. You can call them 24/7 - 0800 933 922 for any parenting enquiries. I recommend saving this number in your phone contacts along with Healthline 0800 611 116 so that you have numbers handy immediately.
Grandfriends
Grandfriends is a New Zealand-based program that connects older adults with families to provide practical and social support. For solo mums, Grandfriends can be a source of hands-on support and inter-generational connection within the community.
Babysitter platforms
Babysitters can be your break, relief on logistics or fallback option when the juggle is too much. Platforms like Babysits and Caresies connect parents with vetted babysitters, nannies, or parent-to-parent care swaps.
Facebook groups
Local community groups, online or in your area, can be a great source of support for solo mums, from sharing advice to swapping babysitting tips or discovering helpful resources. While many connections are positive, it’s important to stay cautious: not everything is vetted, and experiences can vary. Use these groups as a helpful starting point, and always trust your instincts when reaching out or arranging support. Common ones include Solo mums NZ and Surviving Separation NZ.
You can also find early stages of a practical ideas list for every-day life that might inspire you too.
Other practical and day-to-day support
Foodbanks
New Zealand Food Network coordinates local foodbanks and community pantries across the country.
The Salvation Army Foodbank offers food parcels, budgeting advice, and additional family support services.
Bellyful
Bellyful is a charity that delivers free, nutritious, home-cooked meals to families with newborns or those facing illness. Bellyful operates through local branches, allowing you to request meals for yourself or others in need. You can also volunteer or donate to support their mission.
Homecarelink
Homecarelink is a platform that brings all sorts of local help together - whether it’s childcare, home cleaning, meal prep, or personal support. You can connect directly with multiple providers in one place. Note: This has just been rolled out by another mum in the Bay of Plenty but is planned to be a NZ wide platform.
Miss Daisy
Driving Miss Daisy is a practical support service offering companion driving service, assisting with various tasks such as medical appointments, grocery shopping, school runs, and even taking pets to the vet. Their drivers are police-checked, first aid trained, and hold Passenger Service Licenses.
Emotional & Peer Support
Birthright New Zealand
Birthright has dedicated single-parent support. They offer a range of services, including home visits, practical assistance, and advocacy, to ensure that single-parent families have the resources and support they need.
Parent to Parent (for children with disabilities)
Parent to Parent provides support groups and services for parents and caregivers, including for children with disabilities or health impairments. They offer a platform for parents to connect with others facing similar challenges, share experiences, and receive emotional support. They also have a resource hub where you can find about disabilities.
Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand
The Mental Health Foundation offers a wealth of resources to help provide support and education for individuals, including single parents, who may be struggling with mental health issues. They provide information on accessing mental health services, support groups, and strategies for wellbeing.
Skylight
Skylight is a key resource for solo mothers seeking emotional support. They offer counselling, tailored resources, and specialized programs to help individuals and families build resilience and navigate challenges. Skylight also provides guidance for parents on communication and wellbeing, creating a safe, supportive space for solo mums to access practical tools and emotional support when facing life’s stresses.