Right on song for abuse message

Tina Cross with Tupou and Anau Nofoakifolau. Photo / Doug Sherring

Kiwi singer Tina Cross has teamed up with a police choir for a powerful message against domestic violence.

Joining forces with the Counties Manukau District Commander's Police Choir and teenagers from Otahuhu Blue Light Choir, Cross re-recorded her 2014 song Walk Away as a message of support for women in abusive relationships.

The resulting video, launched at Counties Manukau Police District Headquarters, included messages of support from Jude Simpson and Vic Tamati, champions for the national anti-violence campaign It's Not OK.

Cross had performed with the police choir before and was asked to take part in the project by choir leader Inspector Wati Chaplow and manager Martin Bailey.

"She's a true professional and an amazing performer," says Chaplow. "We knew she had this song that dealt with family violence. Its lessons - 'walk away' and 'give her a voice' - are very apt to our work."

The inclusion of personal stories added to the impact of the video, said Mr Chaplow.

"It's hard for a victim to walk away but Jude is proof that it can be done. And Vic's story shows that as an offender you can also walk away from that violence and anger."

Cross, who is also an ambassador for Women's Refuge, said working with the choirs had been "absolutely brilliant".

"We're all in the same waka," she said. "The kaupapa is the same for us all, sworn officer or non-sworn. The most important thing is what the song can deliver."