---
title: "Why do some children have detailed information while others don't?"
description: "Not all tamariki or recipients will have their interests listed"
url: https://support.kohatree.co.nz/en/articles/23-why-do-some-children-have-detailed-information-while-others-don-t
collection: "Getting Started"
updated: 2026-10-27
language: en
---

# Why do some children have detailed information while others don't?

Not all tamariki or recipients will have their interests listed

## Why do some children have detailed information while others don't?

**Great question!** We love that you want to give a thoughtful koha. Here's what you should know:

When schools and social services register the children they'd like matched with donors, they do their best to share details like age, gender, and interests. **Not all organisations are able to gather this information**.

## What you might see (and what you might not)

The information available varies depending on what the school or social service was able to share. You might see:

-   **Detailed interests** – like "loves drawing," "into sports," or "learning about dinosaurs"
    
-   **Favourite colours or activities**
    
-   **General age-appropriate details** that help you get to know them a bit
    

**Not all organisations can gather this level of detail**, but they always try their best to give you helpful insights. Sometimes you'll just have age and gender to go on—and that's okay!

## Where to find their interests

When you've been matched with a child, their information is right there on your match dashboard. Here's how to find it:

1.  **Log in to your Koha Tree account**
    
2.  **Go to "My Matches"** or your dashboard
    
3.  **Select the child you've been matched with**
    
4.  **Scroll to the "Other Information" section** – this is where any interests, hobbies, or preferences shared by the school or organisation will appear
    

[Koha Tree - 1 November 2025 - Watch Video](https://www.loom.com/share/f5683ee4591d47848a2e6c333d9df6e9)

![](https://cdn.loom.com/sessions/thumbnails/f5683ee4591d47848a2e6c333d9df6e9-3fa02d66aaa45a43-full-play.gif)

## Here's the important bit: it's a wishlist, not a requirement

**Ka runga rawa atu koe** (You're awesome!) for wanting to get something they'll love. But here's the thing—those interests are just a helpful guide, not a checklist you need to follow exactly.

You're not expected to source the exact items listed. Think of it as a hint about what kind of koha might bring a smile to their face. If you can use those interests to inspire your gift, amazing! If not, that's totally fine too.

## What you should do

-   Use the interests as **inspiration**, not rules
    
-   Remember they're just getting to know the child too
    
-   Trust your instincts about what would make a meaningful koha
    
-   Know that **whatever you choose will be appreciated**
    

The most important thing is that you're bringing aroha (love and compassion) to your gift-giving. That's what makes it special.

**Need help choosing?** Ask our community in the Facebook group here: