You would have to wonder if Plunket's days are numbered. The iconic parenting organisation that is as Kiwi as Buzzy Bees, as the All Blacks, as Edmund Hillary, has announced that its parenting programme will finish at the end of June because they cannot afford to keep them running.  

Other of Plunket's programmes will continue, including the Well-Child Tamariki Ora service – that's the early checks that many, many newborn babies have. 85 per cent of Pakeha babies, 50 per cent of Māori babies have those Whanau Ora checks. But the parenting programme that's been running for five years will finish at the end of June because it can't afford to keep running. Chief Executive of Plunket Amanda Malu says, as with any charity that relies on donations and grants, Plunket has limited resources. 

Amanda Malu says they have to make tough decisions now to ensure the organisation is financially resilient for the years ahead. Whanau Awhina Plunket turns 115 next month. Amanda Malu says she wants to make sure they're around for another 100 years. 

The first 1000 days are the most vital of a child's life. It is absolutely imperative that parents and their children get the best possible start. And no matter how well prepared you think you are for parenthood, when it happens it can be an absolute roller coaster of emotions. 

You need care. You need guidance. When you're a new family starting off Plunket has provided that for many, many families for many, many years. Is it fit for purpose now? 

I'd love to know where you got your support from. Whether you think Plunket is fit for purpose in this day and age. The parenting programs have been cut, which is a jolly shame. Is this the beginning of the end?