Our Story
Waikato Women’s Refuge - Te Whakaruruhau first opened in 1986 thanks to the efforts of local Maori women who sought to save lives and reduce the harm caused by domestic violence.
In those early years, the service provided a 24 hour crisis response team and safe housing. Fast forward more than 30 years and Waikato Women’s Refuge has grown from a one bedroom flat to five safe houses across Hamilton and continues to operate 24/7 to provide safe housing, advice and community-based support.
In 30 years our service has transformed into one involving the whole family. We believe that working with the whole family creates long-term change with domestic violence. This is why, where possible, we work with men who are committed to change, along with your extended family.
The vision of Te Whakaruruhau was created, and is now maintained, by two strong, passionate and committed women - Ariana Simpson and Ruahine (Roni) Albert. Together they have worked tirelessly to raise awareness of the issues for women and whanau living with violence. They have fought hard to provide a local and national response to domestic violence and continue to challenge a system that refuses to hold perpetrators accountable for their behaviour and abusive actions towards their families.
Crisis Response
We have a 24/7 crisis service. Our experienced staff are available to see you where and when you need them. They work with you to decide what support you need - from advice through to full residential care in one of our safe houses. Our services are personalised to fit your needs, because only you know what will work best for you and your children.
Community Outreach
Our community team will visit you in your home or any other place you choose, and help you with any problems you have. They will give you support and be your advocate in your contact with agencies such as Work and Income, Housing New Zealand or Child, Youth and Family, ensure you get any medical care you or your children need, stay with you if you visit a lawyer, help you get food, clothing or furniture for your family, and help you leave town or simply provide you with advice on what to do next.
Residential Services
If you have to leave your home, we have safe houses where you and your children can stay with complete security. We have skilled and qualified staff who provide a non-judgmental, caring and supportive environment. You may be with us for a couple of nights until your family can help you, or you may be with us longer-term until you feel you can cope on your own. While you are staying with us, there are a range of educational programmes you can undertake to help you and your children get back on your feet. Your children are also taken care of; they can go to school or attend early childhood education services.
We offer
• A purpose-built crisis facility with two safe houses catering to high risk families needing additional safety, care and protection. This facility has 24/7 staffing who will support you and your family.
• A general safe house for whanau who are low-to-medium risk but require support and advocacy to negotiate with social service agencies, partners and whanau.
• A transition house for whanau waiting to reintegrate back into the community or whanau needing respite.
Remember
• Family violence can occur in any home, regardless of culture, ethnicity or origin.
• Violence in any shape or form is unacceptable.
• You can help your local Refuge by donating goods or funds, or helping us spread the word on the services we provide.
