Page URL: https://practice.orangatamariki.govt.nz/our-work/adoption/working-with-expectant-parents
Printed: 16/09/2025
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Working with expectant parents

In this section
When expectant parents want to discuss adoption

We need to be impartial, provide information and explore options with expectant parents so they can make an informed decision that meets the needs of te tamaiti.
Other options for expectant parents considering adoption

We support expectant parents to make a fully informed decision about adoption by exploring other options and encouraging expectant parents to consider the long-term needs of te tamaiti.
Involving fathers when considering adoption

Te tamaiti benefits from the involvement of their father and their whānau or family when exploring care options and any adoption plan.
Involving whānau or family in the adoption decision

We should make every effort to involve the expectant parents’ whānau or family when adoption is being considered.
What is open adoption

We help expectant parents and adoptive applicants understand how open adoption works and the decisions they need to make.
Making a birth whānau or family history

When expectant parents decide to place their tamaiti for adoption, we should help them and their whānau or family prepare a birth whānau or family history.
Selecting an adoptive whānau or family from profiles

Once expectant parents have settled on a plan to place te tamaiti for adoption, we explore their preferences and criteria for an adoptive whānau or family and provide profiles for them to consider, which meet their criteria.
Preparing for the birth

We help expectant parents considering adoption to understand and prepare for what happens after te tamaiti is born.
Balancing the Adoption Act and the Oranga Tamariki Act

When parents are considering adoption, we need to understand statutory obligations and be able to explain the impact of different legislation to birthparents so we can help uphold the mana of everyone.

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