Sexual Violence Support Services in Christchurch
Experiencing sexual violence, or supporting someone who has, can be overwhelming and isolating. In Ōtautahi , there are specialist services that provide safe, confidential, and compassionate support for people of all genders and ages. Whether the harm happened recently or in the past, these organisations can offer medical care, crisis support, counselling, advocacy, and culturally grounded services. Below is a guide to the key supports available.
Safe to Talk – He pai ki te kōrero
Safe to Talk is a free, confidential, nationwide sexual‑violence helpline available 24/7 for anyone affected by sexual harm — including survivors, supporters, and professionals. They provide immediate emotional support, information, crisis counselling, and connection to local services.
Support is available by phone, text, email, and online chat, and you can contact them anonymously if you prefer.
Website: safetotalk.nz (Email/Webchat available)
Phone: 0800 044 334
Text: 4334
Cambridge Clinic
The Cambridge Clinic is a 24/7 specialist medical service for anyone aged 13 and over who has been sexually assaulted or abused, whether recently or historically. They provide medical care, advice, check‑ups, and forensic examinations when needed. They also offer a self‑referral pathway for their non‑fatal strangulation service.
Website: cambridgeclinic.co.nz
Phone: 03 366 0067
Email: office@cambridgeclinic.co.nz
Aviva
Aviva provides 24/7 specialist support for people experiencing or recovering from family and sexual violence. They offer crisis response, ongoing support, advocacy, and help navigating the justice system. Their services are available to people of all genders and ages.
Walk-in Support:
9am-4pm, Monday-Friday
Unit 4, Amuri Park, 25 Churchill St, Christchurch Central
Website: avivafamilies.org.nz
Phone: 0800 284 82669
Email: enquiries@aviva.org.nz
START
START provides early intervention, counselling, and long‑term support for children, young people, adults, and their families who have experienced sexual violence or other trauma. Their team specialises in trauma‑informed therapy and works with survivors at any stage of healing.
Website: starthealing.org
Phone: 03 355 4414
Email: admin@starthealing.org
Te Puna Oranga
Te Puna Oranga offers kaupapa Māori crisis response and support for individuals and whānau affected by sexual violence and family harm. Their services are grounded in tikanga Māori and focus on safety, healing, and strengthening whānau wellbeing.
Website: tepunaoranga.co.nz/
Phone: 0800 222 042
Email: info@tepunaoranga.co.nz
STOP
STOP provides whānau‑centred support and therapy for adults, adolescents, and children who are worried about, have engaged in, or are showing concerning or harmful sexual behaviour. Their programmes focus on safety, accountability, and building healthy relationships.
Website: stop.org.nz
Phone: 03 353 0257
Male Survivors Canterbury - Mens Centre
Male Survivors Canterbury provides free, confidential support for male survivors of sexual harm, offering a safe, non‑judgemental space for men and male‑identifying people to heal at their own pace. Their services include peer support, one‑to‑one counselling, group programmes, and opportunities to connect with others who have lived experience. Their approach is grounded in the belief that recovery is possible and that no one should have to navigate the impacts of sexual violence alone.
Website: canmen.org.nz/male-survivors
Phone: 03 365 9000
Christchurch Police
Police can support you to access urgent medical care and connect you with the Cambridge Clinic following an acute sexual assault. You can choose whether or not to make a formal report.
ACC Sensitive Claims
ACC funds therapy for anyone affected by sexual violence — no police report is required. Many therapists in Christchurch are registered to provide ACC Sensitive Claims counselling.
How The Loft Can Support You
The Loft is here to help you navigate the sexual violence support services available in Ōtautahi Christchurch. If you’re unsure where to start, need help understanding your options, or want someone to walk alongside you as you reach out for support, we can guide you through the process. Our team can connect you with medical care, crisis services, counselling, or culturally grounded support. We can meet with you by phone or Zoom, making it easier to access help in a way that feels safe for you. If you’d like support taking the next step, please get in touch with us and we will help you get connected.