Child protection officials believe New Zealand may be finally tackling its child abuse problem after the first drop in abuse cases for at least eight years.

A father who allegedly bashed his children with a machete and cricket bats is facing eight years behind bars.

Police officers broke into a car in Huntly yesterday to get to a baby which had been left alone.

Children's advocate Dame Lesley Max wants more promotion of contraception as a step towards tackling child abuse.