***Distressing content warning***

Hemi McCallum of Ngāi Tahu and Ngāpuhi descent, was in State care in the 1960s-1970s. Hemi passed away in March 2022. Hemi’s experience of multiple abuse and placements had severe impacts on his life. During his time in foster care, Hemi suffered physical and emotional abuse, and neglect. He was also forced to undertake extreme physical labour at a very young age. Hemi’s sister and niece spoke about his time in State care from age 2 until he was discharged at age 15, and his key recommendations for changes to improve the foster care system.