Attachment theory and resilience theory have developed as two separate bodies of knowledge with their own genealogy. In this paper it is argued that the concepts of attachment and resilience should be regarded as complementary and that each is strengthened by such an approach. The cultural implications are discussed with particular reference to the indigenous population of Aotearoa New Zealand and a case is made for the importance of attachment as a crucial factor in minimising risk and maximising resiliency for children in need of care and protection.