For many children growing up in the country, pets become important members of the family, and cherished friends. Children learn valuable life skills such as responsibility, empathy and selfconfidence by caring for their pets, which rely on them for food,
shelter and unconditional love. Similar life lessons are instilled in New Zealand children through the seven Children’s Health Camps throughout the country. On 18 April 2013, Te Puna Whaiora Children’s Health Camps launched its new name, Stand Children’s Services, Tu Maia Whanau. Stand Children’s Services aims to nurture the dreams and aspirations of our nation’s children, allowing them to find their turangawaewae, their 'place to stand’. New Zealand Post is continuing to support Children's Health Camps under its new name. The 10-cent surcharge on each stamp in this issue will go directly to Stand Children’s Services, and will help to ensure that vulnerable New Zealand children receive the attention and care they deserve. The three stamps in this special issue illustrate a rural New Zealand childhood, and the special role that pets play in growing up in the country.