Family Violence Support in Ōtautahi
Family violence can happen to anyone, and it includes much more than physical harm. It can be emotional abuse, controlling behaviour, threats, financial control, sexual harm, stalking, or any behaviour that makes you feel scared, unsafe, or trapped. If someone is trying to control what you do, who you see, what you spend, or where you go, that is also family violence. You deserve to feel safe, respected, and supported — and many services in Christchurch can help.
What Family Violence Can Look Like
Family violence includes:
Physical harm — hitting, pushing, choking, or damaging property
Emotional abuse — yelling, threats, put‑downs, intimidation
Financial control — taking your money, stopping you from working, controlling all spending
Social isolation — stopping you from seeing friends, whānau, or support people
Digital abuse — monitoring your phone, tracking your location, controlling your online accounts
Sexual harm — any sexual activity you did not freely agree to
If any of this sounds familiar, you are not alone — and help is available.
Family Violence Support Services in Christchurch
Below is a simple overview of key services that offer safety, support, advice, and practical help. These organisations can assist whether you’re thinking about leaving, planning to stay safe, or needing emergency support.
Aviva
Supports people of all genders experiencing or using violence. Offers crisis support, safety planning, counselling, and youth services. Website: aviva.org.nz
Phone: 0800 AVIVA NOW (0800 28482 669)
Shakti Christchurch
Specialist support for migrant and refugee women experiencing family violence.
Website: shakti.org.nz
Phone: 0800 SHAKTI (0800 742 584)
Te Whare Hauora
Provides safe houses, crisis support, safety planning, and 24/7 help for wāhine Māori and their tamariki.
Website: tewharehauora.com Phone: 0800 11 7474
SHE (Support, Empower, Heal)
Provides safe houses, crisis support, and safety planning for women experiencing violence.
Website: tewharehauora.com Phone: 0800 REFUGE (0800 733 843)
West Christchurch Women’s Refuge
Provides safe houses, crisis support, and safety planning for women and their children.
Website: refuge4me.org.nz Phone: 0800 REFUGE (0800 733 843)
He Waka Tapu – Family Harm Support
Offers kaupapa Māori support, safety planning, programmes, and crisis help.
Website: hewakatapu.org.nz
Phone: 0800 HE WAKA (0800 439 252)
1737 – Need to Talk?
Free 24/7 phone or text support with trained counsellors.
Phone/Text: 1737
Police – Family Harm Team
If you are in immediate danger, call 111. Police also have specialist teams who follow up on family harm reports and connect people with support services.
You Deserve Support
Family violence is never your fault. You don’t need to have left the relationship, made a plan, or be “sure” something is wrong before reaching out. These services can help you understand your options, stay safe, and get the support you need.
If you’d like, I can also create a Christchurch‑only quick‑reference sheet, a Loft‑branded version, or a simple safety‑planning guide.
How The Loft Can Help
The Loft is here to support you if you’re dealing with family violence or feeling unsure about what to do next. We can listen, help you understand your options, and connect you with the right organisations for safety, counselling, housing, legal help, or practical support. If you want someone to walk alongside you while you figure out your next steps, contact us and our team can guide you toward the services that best fit your situation.