The statistics
Of the more than 1.1 million children in New Zealand, the majority (approximately 80%) will never come to the attention of Oranga Tamariki. But there are some families and whānau who need extra help and support.
Reports of concern
We're working in partnership with an increasing number of iwi, Māori and community organisations to help families and whānau earlier with issues that put children at risk.
About 10 people contact us every hour with concerns about a child. Over the past year we have averaged 240 calls and emails every day from the community – doctors, teachers, neighbours and police. Concerns relate to drug and alcohol addiction among parents, neglect, physical, sexual and emotional abuse of children, and family violence.
From the reports of concern we receive, we make 100 assessments each day. Of these assessments there is the equivalent of two classrooms of children who we have never had contact with before.
COVID-19 variance
During the COVID-19 lock-down period there were fewer reports of concern. We believe this was because everyone had to stay home and there weren’t as many people like teachers and doctors able to watch out for children.
Read our operational reporting for data collected from 26 March to 9 June
A diverse team
To meet the needs of at-risk children we are a diverse group of professionals and community-minded individuals with specialist skills.

Published: August 7, 2020