Family violence support

Family violence support

  • Support services and information for people affected by family violence.
Healthify Website tiles Generic 2 pale blue
Print this page

Police(external link)
111 in an emergency, or phone 105 or visit your local Police station.

Abuse and Rape Crisis Support Manawatu(external link)
Phone the national 24-hour telephone support line 0800 472 496. ARCS provides services such as individual and group support, counselling and education to women, children and men who are survivors of sexual violence and also their whānau. 

Are you OK?(external link)
It's not OK is a community-driven behaviour change campaign to reduce family violence in New Zealand. Its goal is to change attitudes and behaviours that tolerate any kind of family violence. Phone 0800 456 450.

Are you OK? Family violence services(external link)
A list of the key family violence services, the help that they offer, and how to contact them.

Asian Family Services(external link) 
0800 862 342 Professional, confidential, nationwide face-to-face or telephone support to Asians living in New Zealand.

Citizens Advice Bureau(external link)
A nationwide, but locally based, community organisation. Helps people to know and understand their rights and obligations, and how to use this information to get the best outcomes. Phone 0800 367 222.

Family Action(external link)
Provides help for adults, youth, children and families who have experienced domestic or sexual violence. 0800 326 327 Monday to Friday 8.30 am to 5 pm.

Family Court(external link)
The Family Court deals with lots of issues, from making orders for children not yet born right through to older people who are in need of care and protection. Phone 0800 224 733.

Family Services Directory(external link)
Lists information about family support organisations and the services/programmes they offer to support New Zealand families.

Family Violence – safety programmes(external link)
Being safe is important for your and your children’s wellbeing. Wellbeing includes your physical, emotional and spiritual health and your access to basics like food, housing, healthcare. Wellbeing also includes having the freedom to make your own choices about how you live your life. Through safety programmes, you can learn ways to deal with conflict, access extra support and promote positive relationships.

Find a lawyer(external link)
The law affects nearly everything we do but it can be complex and expert advice is often needed. A lawyer has the training, experience and knowledge to help you. If your lawyer can’t help you with a particular matter, they can refer you to another specialist. Phone 04 472 7837.

Free legal advice(external link)
Free legal help throughout New Zealand. 

In Your Hands(external link)
If you're concerned that your behaviour is hurting or scaring the ones you love, you can find information and support here to make positive changes for you and your family/whānau. Start your journey today.

Legal aid(external link)
Legal aid is an important part of New Zealand's justice system. It helps people to resolve legal problems that may go to court and makes sure that people are not denied justice because they can't afford a lawyer. Phone 0800 253 425.

Pet Refuge(external link)
Pet Refuge works with NZ Police, Women’s Refuge, Shine, Family Action and other domestic violence agencies to assist pets via referrals and also take self-referrals. They transport pets from around Aotearoa New Zealand to provide a national service for families affected by domestic violence. The location of the shelter is kept confidential to protect the safety of the pets, women and children assisted by Pet Refuge.

Safe to Talk(external link)
Provides contact with a trained specialist at any time, day or night, 7 days a week. Answers to questions about sexual harm. Information about medical, emotional and behavioural issues related to harmful experiences. Phone 0800 044 334.

Shakti(external link)
Shakti (strength) provides immediate help and support to women, children and youth of Asian, African and Middle Eastern origin who have experienced sexual abuse, domestic violence and discrimination. Phone 0800 742 584.

Shine(external link)
Shine provides help for thousands of adult and child victims every year to become safe and stay safe through its frontline services, and helps thousands more every year through professional training programmes, DVFREE workplace programmes, and health sector partnerships. Phone 0508 744 633.

The Trust Tararua(external link)
A one-stop shop for supporting families through pregnancy, parenting, and family challenges for people living in the Tararua area. Phone 06 376 7608 or email admin@thetrust.org.nz.

Victims Information(external link)
Provides support to help you deal with the practical and emotional effects of the crime and information to help you understand the legal process. Phone 0800 650 654.

Victim Support – financial assistance(external link)
If you are a victim of sexual violence, and of serious crime, you may be eligible for financial support under the victim assistance scheme (VAS). The type of financial support you receive will depend on your individual circumstances. 

Women's Refuge(external link)
A women’s organisation for women and their children to help prevent and stop family violence in New Zealand. Phone 0800 733 843.

Credits: Healthify editorial team. Healthify is brought to you by Health Navigator Charitable Trust.