History

In 1866 Dr Thomas Barnardo saw the desperation of the street kids living in the slums of London's East End.

Deciding to devote himself to the improvement of their situation he established Dr Barnardos Homes for destitute children providing food, shelter and education.

The demand for places in Dr Barnardos Homes grew as did the need to raise money to support them. This led Thomas Barnardo to look to the public for support.

In 1867 the first of thousands of donations was sent from New Zealand. This support continued for the next 100 years. However, in the 1960s, it was realised that New Zealand children also had needs that were not adequately being met.

Barnardos New Zealand was incorporated in 1969 and the first programme began in 1972. Today it is an independent organisation that provides many different services to children, young people and their families throughout the country. Continuing in the tradition of Thomas Barnardo, Barnardos aims to ensure that all children get the very best start to life.

In the past 30 years Barnardos has developed services to become one of the country's leading child and family welfare agencies. We are also the largest and most experienced provider of quality educational childcare services, providing thousands of New Zealand children with the best care and education every year.

Click here to read more on Dr Thomas Barnardos.