Reporting suspected abuse

See information on reporting alleged abuse and what to do if you’re worried about a child.

Learn what to do if you suspect abuse of a child in an education facility, or want to make an allegation of abuse about any education facility.

What should I do if I suspect a child is being abused?

Suspected abuse of a child should be reported to Oranga Tamariki and/or New Zealand Police. Oranga Tamariki and New Zealand Police are able to investigate allegations and hold offenders accountable.

You can find information about reporting suspected abuse of a child to the New Zealand Police on their website.

I suspect a child is being abused. What should I do? | New Zealand Police(external link)

You can find information about reporting suspected abuse of a child to Oranga Tamariki on their website.

Worried about a child? Tell us | Oranga Tamariki — Ministry for Children(external link)

What is the Ministry of Education’s role?

The Ministry of Education can help schools and early learning services to prepare for, manage and respond to traumatic events, including suspected abuse. More information about our Traumatic Incident services can be found on our website.

Responding after a crisis | Education in New Zealand(external link)

We can also help you raise matters relating to suspected abuse with an early learning service, school or other education facility.

For more information you can contact:

Stephanie.Ramirez@education.govt.nz

Phone: +64 4 439 5441 or 027 615 8429

If you’re worried about a child 

Follow the process in your Child Protection Policy if you suspect abuse.

If there's a real risk that the child will be harmed ring the Police 111 or Oranga Tamariki as soon as you can.

Guidance for sharing information about the wellbeing and safety of a child(external link)

Guidance for sharing information where there are family violence concerns(external link)

Last reviewed: 30 August 2022 Has this been useful? Give us your feedback