Rotorua mother supported in her run against violence

A group of police officers will be running a relay between Rotorua and Taupo on Wednesday in support of a Rotorua mother who is raising awareness of domestic abuse.

Kahira Rata-Olley was a victim of abuse for almost 15 years, and she has chosen the annual White Ribbon Day to embark on a gruelling 250km run from her home town to Napier over four days.

At least 12 police officers will be showing their support on the first leg of her 'Running to Stop It' campaign; each officer covering between 5km and 30km in a relay led by Tanya Hemara, Site Manager for Rotorua Child Youth and Family.

This is just one of a number of ways in which police staff across the Bay of Plenty will be marking White Ribbon Day; which internationally calls for the elimination of violence against women.

Bay of Plenty District family violence co-ordinator Graham Perks said family violence caused significant family harm and remained "a daily priority for police".

"We know incidents still go unreported and White Ribbon Day is a valuable opportunity to remind people of the importance of taking a stand.

"It is the responsibility of all of us to work to prevent family harm and make our families safer. This year's focus is on respectful relationships."

He said the men in the community were being asked to look at themselves and ask what kind of man they wanted to be.

"We want to see men showing their partners respect, not exerting power over them or controlling them.

"A consensual relationship where both parties have a choice is vital to a healthy relationship.

The community can also join police at a variety of White Ribbon events around the district.

Events:
* Wednesday November 25 - Police, partner agencies and White Ribbon Riders will be involved in an event hosted by Lakes District Health Board at Rotorua Hospital. 9am to 10am

* Staff in a number of Rotorua cafes, hairdressers and barbers will be wearing White Ribbon t-shirts and using barber's capes with the White Ribbon logo to prompt conversations.

* Family Violence Community Day led by the Salvation Army and supported by police and other family violence partner agencies. 11am on the corner of Bridge St and Leath Pl.

* A march against violence through Opotiki at 10.30am.

* Saturday November 28 - Community event on Rotorua's village green from 1pm until 4pm.

If you or someone you know are in immediate danger call 111.

Women's Refuge Crisis Line also offers a 24hr helpline service on 0800 REFUGE.

For more information about where to get help and how you can help if you know someone affected by family violence go to www.areyouok.org.nz or call 0800 456 450.