Korowai Aroha | Position Statement and Key Asks

At VOYCE – Whakarongo Mai, we are dedicated to amplifying the voices of rangatahi who have experienced abuse in state care. Korowai Aroha is an independent submission to the Royal Commission, detailing the experiences and key asks of 11 young individuals who endured abuse after 1999.

These testimonies, presented to the Royal Commission last year, will contribute to the final Abuse in Care report, due to be released later this week. Although the original inquiry focused on abuse and neglect from 1950 to 1999, it has also addressed cases of abuse beyond this period, ensuring that no survivor’s voice is left unheard.

The 11 young contributors to this now public submission have outlined 25 key asks and recommendations in the Korowai Aroha Position Statement. These courageous individuals highlight the profound sense of hopelessness, fear, and isolation faced by those abused in Oranga Tamariki care. The goal of Korowai Aroha is to ensure that the voices of rangatahi are not only heard, but acknowledged by the Commission.

Contributors to the submission have openly discussed their distrust of the government, ongoing trauma, insufficient support for caregivers, and the lack of action taken when abuse is reported. One poignant account from a young survivor recalls, “I was 5 when the abuse got really, really bad because OT didn’t bother to check in. OT never came.”

We commend the extraordinary bravery of these young people. It is imperative that their courage is honoured by urgently implementing their recommendations and the broader findings of the inquiry due later this month.

The public release of this submission ahead of the Abuse in State Care report is crucial for validating the voices and experiences of rangatahi abused after 1999. Acknowledging the recent experiences of young people underscores the intergenerational nature of these failures by the state. Instead of care and protection, they received trauma and abuse from those entrusted with their welfare. Recognising this submission validates the brave mahi of our young people to share their experiences and drive change.

At VOYCE – Whakarongo Mai, we stand with these courageous young individuals in advocating for urgent reforms to New Zealand’s state care system. Together, we strive for a future where every child is treated with the care, protection, and respect they deserve.

You can read the full submission of Te rōpū kaitiaki mō ngā teina e haere nei below: