Relaunch of the Te Tai Tokerau Sexual Violence Prevention Strategy

A Strategy Built Together – For Te Tai Tokerau, By Te Tai Tokerau

As part of the Te Tai Tokerau Sexual Violence Prevention Network, Whangārei Rape Crisis is pleased to share the updated Te Tai Tokerau Sexual Violence Prevention Strategy 2023–2028. Grounded in the lived experience of survivors, and shaped by the knowledge and leadership of our communities, this strategy reflects a shared regional commitment to preventing mahi tūkino / sexual violence and supporting healing. While firmly community-driven, it also aligns with Te Aorerekura: The National Strategy to Eliminate Family Violence and Sexual Violence, connecting our local efforts to national goals for change.

The foundation for this strategy was laid in 2022, when a group of specialist sexual harm response and prevention organisations came together to collaborate and surface the needs of the region. Supported by Oranga Tamariki, the group — including Korowai Tūmanako, SOS Kaipara Charitable Trust, Miriam Centre, Tautoko Tāne Te Tai Tokerau, Te Whare Ruruhau O Meri, SAFE, Te Whaitipu Counselling (formerly Mid North Family Support), and Whangārei Rape Crisis — worked collectively to map the strengths, challenges, and aspirations across Te Tai Tokerau.

In 2023, the kaupapa grew. We welcomed a wider group of community and government partners into the conversation, and in August, the Te Tai Tokerau Sexual Violence Prevention Roadshow brought more than 500 people together across hui in Whangārei, Dargaville, Kaitaia, and Kerikeri. Their voices and insights helped shape the direction of this strategy.

The strategy focuses on four key areas:

1. Tangata Whenua – Māori leadership and tikanga at the centre
2. Community Practice & Prevention – local solutions led by whānau
3. Networking, Awareness & Advocacy – strong connections and visibility
4. Capacity & Capability Building – skilled, sustainable workforces

These are guided by three goals: working together to prevent harm and support healing; delivering connected services; and growing a resilient, well-supported sector.

This is a living strategy — created by the region, for the region — and it will continue to evolve alongside our communities.

Ko wai mātou. Who we are.
The Te Tai Tokerau Sexual Violence Prevention Network is a regional network led by a partnership of specialist sexual violence services, working with contributing partners to ensure the implementation of the Te Tai Tokerau Sexual Violence Prevention Strategy 2023–2028.