Heather and James Tuhoro
Heather and James Tuhoro, of Hamilton, received the Queen's Service Medal for services to foster care. Mr and Mrs Tuhoro have been foster carers and have cared for more than 380 children and young people, in particular those with high and complex needs, for some 15 years. They have continued in many cases to provide commitment to children no longer in their care. They are also involved in local and national foster care organisations. Mr Tuhoro was the Chairperson of the Waikato Foster Care Association and Mrs Tuhoro is the Secretary of the Association. Mr Tuhoro is an allegation support person for the New Zealand Foster Care Federation. From time to time, they become the ‘public face’ for fostering in the media. Mr and Mrs Tuhoro received the Excellence in Foster Care Award in 2008.