Rights

Real numbers about real children

The reality for children and young people in Aotearoa New Zealand

Many children and young people in Aotearoa grow up in safe, loving and supportive environments. However, too many mokopuna continue to experience violence, abuse and neglect.

Children and young people who experience harm can face lifelong impacts on their health, wellbeing, education and relationships. The effects can be felt not only by individual mokopuna, but by whānau, communities and future generations.

These are the facts about child abuse and neglect in New Zealand. They highlight why protecting children and young people's right to safety must remain a national priority. You can play your part.

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Child safety by the numbers

In the past decade, approximately 113 children aged 0 to 17 years have died through homicide. Two-thirds (66%) were under five years of age, highlighting younger aged children are most at risk of harm.

- Police admin data, 2025

New Zealand has one of the highest rates of children under five years killed by homicide (interpersonal violence) compared with similar countries.

- Derived from the Global Burden of Disease 2023 dataset

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Violence against children is increasing

In 2024, more children under 15 years were recorded as victims of violence than in previous years, and the numbers are significantly higher than five years ago.

- Police Victimisation data 2024; as cited in Table 6a, Salvation Army 2025

In 2024/25, Oranga Tamariki received reports of concern relating to more than 63,000 children, with more than 44,000 reports requiring further action.

-Oranga Tamariki, 2025

Speak up when you’re worried about a child or young person

If a child or young person is in immediate danger, call 111.

If you think a child or young person may be suffering from harm, abuse or neglect, contact Oranga Tamariki on 0508 326 459 or email contact@ot.govt.nz.