The '1,000 days campaign' calls for increased, and more effective, investment in the early years of a child's life - the first 1000 days. The 1000 day (3 year) parliamentary term spans the crucial first 1000 days of a child's life - when the most important physical, mental and social development occurs.

"The first 1000 days represents the greatest chance politicians have to get it right now and for the future. New Zealand children currently experience some of the worst outcomes in the OECD resulting from low levels of investment, maltreatment and poverty (see Key Facts about Children attached). Those poor outcomes cost the nation at least $6bn per annum," says Every Child Counts Chairperson, Liz Gibbs.

"There is a wealth of evidence showing the high return on investment in children. We are urging all parliamentarians to ensure that children are at the centre of this parliament's focus and parents receive the support they need to meet their responsibilities to their children."