He waka eke noa – We’re all in this together
At Waikato Women’s Refuge, we offer 24/7 tautoko (support) to help wāhine and tamariki live free from violence. Whether you need immediate help or long-term support, we’re here for you – with services grounded in manaakitanga, safety, and whānau wellbeing.
Crisis Response – 24/7 Whānau Safety
Our team is available around the clock, responding to over 5,000 calls a year
- Urgent safety planning
- Legal and medical support
- Risk assessments and GPS alarm systems
- Safe house placements or support to stay safely at home
Community Outreach & Advocacy
Our Community Advocates walk alongside whānau as they rebuild their lives
- Help with legal matters, WINZ, kai, clothing, and more
- Advocacy and support for tāne on a journey of change
- Whānau reconnection and relationship restoration
- Ongoing mentoring and community programme access
Safe Housing & Transitional Support
We provide a secure place to begin healing
- 24/7 staffed safe houses, including a 10-room complex
- Transitional housing to support independent living
- A tikanga Māori approach that fosters emotional resilience, whakapapa connections, and holistic wellbeing
- Access to education, counselling, and parenting programmes
Who has access to our services?
Our doors are open to all impacted by family violence. Whether you’re a woman seeking safety, a child needing support, or a tāne ready to make a change — Waikato Women’s Refuge offers services that meet you where you are. We walk alongside individuals and whānau with compassion, respect, and a belief in the possibility of healing
for women
Safety. Support. A fresh start
Wāhine are at the heart of our work. Our services are designed to help women and their whānau move from crisis to stability with dignity and care. If you need support, we’re here 24/7.
for children
Tamariki deserve to grow up safe and strong
Children are often the silent victims of violence. We work with your whole whānau to increase safety and support access to early childhood education — breaking the cycle for future generations.
