The $2.4 million contract for the programme - in which parents of children from birth to 18 take a course that comes in a "tool box" - was contained in last week's Budget, but has attracted criticism because the contract was not put out to tender.

"Anyone who looks at this course would see immediately there is nothing else like it in New Zealand," said NZ Christian Network's National Director Glyn Carpenter.

"Furthermore, Parents Inc as an organisation is also unique in this country. In fact, there's not many organisations like it in the world."

Mr Carpenter said that Parents Inc has built up a long track record of quality programmes based on Judeo-Christian values, and thousands of families have benefited from their work.

"In light of the recent OECD report and comments from the Children's Commissioner about the challenges faced by children who are not in two-parent homes, quality parenting training is clearly needed - and it's needed now."

Mr Carpenter said while an open tender process may be more usual, it appears that proper process was followed in awarding the contract.

"The special nature of the Toolbox programme and the urgency of the situation for many New Zealand families, means the sooner it gets rolled out through the country the better," said Mr Carpenter.

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