What is consent?
In New Zealand, we don’t have a legal definition of consent; however, consent means agreeing to something freely and voluntarily, without pressure or coercion. Consent is an ongoing conversation, not just a one-time “yes” or “no.” In sexual activity, it should be enthusiastic, freely given, informed, and reversible—ensuring everyone is clear about what’s happening. Consent can be withdrawn at any time.
At Whangārei Rape Crisis, we are committed to building a community of consent where respect, clear communication, and choice are central to all interactions, not just sexual ones.
Rape Awareness Week
We run an annual programme of community events to promote awareness, connection, and change. Our two main events are a presence at Artbeat, hosted by Creative Northland, and Rape Awareness Week (RAW), held each May.
RAW focuses on raising awareness of sexual violence, its impacts, and the importance of building a culture of consent through education, conversation, and community action.
See below for FREE events happening this May 2025.
Consent and Support Avenues
12pm–1.30pm | Tuesday 6th May
Whangārei Rape Crisis, Level 1/125 Cameron St
A confidential session on consent and support after sexual harm — any time, any situation.
Hear from forensic nurse Lisa Attwood (MEDSAC) and the Crisis Support team. Q&A included.
Note: Access is via stairs. Online option available.
Sexual Harm in the Workplace
5.30pm–7.30pm | Tuesday 6th May
ONEONESIX, 116 Bank Street
A consent conversation led by MC Louie Elliot (Te Hau Ora o Ngāpuhi) with panellists Emma Campbell (HR Consultant) and Anna Patterson (Thomson Wilson Law). They’ll cover types of workplace sexual harm, how to recognise inappropriate behaviour, employer responsibilities, and building a safe workplace culture.
Parents Talk
12pm–1.30pm | Wednesday 7th May
May Bain Room, Whangārei District Library
Join the Miriam Centre team for an open discussion on talking with children and young people about consent. Learn how to respond to disclosures and access support services, with practical advice for parents, caregivers, and anyone working with young people.
From Reporting to Court
12pm–1.30pm | Thursday 8th May
Whangārei Rape Crisis, Level 1/125 Cameron St
A confidential session on what happens if you or someone you know reports sexual assault. Hear from Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Shane Pilmer and the Court Support Coordinator at Rape Crisis, with time for questions.
Note: Access is via stairs. Online option available.
Musicians for Consent
8pm–10pm | Thursday 8th May
Listen on 88.1 Whangārei or online at Beagle Radio
Join DJ JXO and Rape Crisis GM Ange Jones as they play and discuss music exploring consent and experiences of sexual harm. The night will shift into dance tracks to help you move and shake off any tough emotions.
Frequently asked questions
First and most importantly, what happened is not your fault. Talking to someone you trust, like a friend or whānau member, can help you begin to process what you’re feeling. You’re also welcome to call us on 0800 88 33 00 — we’re here to listen and support you.
Whether or not you report to the police is entirely your choice, and we will support you either way. You can report by calling 111, 105, or visiting your local police station. A medical examination is available to you regardless of whether you choose to report. It can help with collecting evidence and also offers a sexual health check, carried out by one of the friendly female doctors who specialise in this care.
If you are in immediate danger, call 111.
In New Zealand law, the term rape is defined as a form of sexual violation. It specifically refers to non-consensual sexual connection involving the penetration of genitalia by a penis. The broader category of sexual violation also includes unlawful sexual connection, which covers other forms of non-consensual sexual activity, e.g. digital penetration, oral sex, anal sex, etc. If you are unsure about whether the sexual activity was consensual or not, consider the acronym FRIES: Freely given, Reversible, Informed, Enthusiastic, and Specific.
Any touching that is not welcomed can vary from subtle, uncomfortable gestures to overtly harmful actions. In legal terms, this is called indecent assault. You have the option to report an indecent assault to the police also. Whether you report or not, we are here to support you.
No. We support your decision whether to tell the police or not.
Yes. We welcome your support people, friends and whānau to join you. We can also offer support to them if they need it.
Latest consent resources
Download consent posters
Dealing with flashbacks
Using your resilience
