Whanganui family violence rise over holidays - police and Women's Refuge

Hundreds of people joined November's White Ribbon March against family violence in Whanganui.

Family violence incidents in Whanganui have soared over the holiday period, with police attending multiple calls a day.

Women's Refuge Whanganui practice manager Jo said it had been the busiest holiday period for the refuge in six years.

Services the refuge had provided included supporting women in the hospital emergency department, supporting women and children into safe accommodation, working extensively with women in the community to develop safety plans and looking at options and solutions, Jo said.

"Families in the community need to know they are not alone - there are agencies able to support them and offer advocacy and other options," she said.

"I'm sure if people in the community knew how much domestic violence and family violence there actually was, they would rise up and say we're not okay. If you don't think it's okay, then it's not okay."

Women's Refuge Whanganui provides a place of safety, a 24/7 crisis support line, education on the effects and trauma associated with domestic violence and support and advocacy for women and children in the community. Call (06) 344 2204 or 0800 REFUGE.

Whanganui police Sergeant Aaron Bunker said police attended 230 family harm related incidents in December, while in the first three days of January they attended 30 (10 per day).

"With the combination of drinking, the heat and tension, people should remember that while family is important, it's also important to take time out to look after yourself.

"If you're feeling the strain of the season, seek out someone to talk to - a friend, colleague or trusted whanau member."

Mr Bunker said the Family Violence Information Line 0800 456 450 and website www.areyouok.org.nz could provide self-help information and connect people to services where appropriate.