On December 9th 2022, The Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence and Sexual Violence, Marama Davidson, launched a comprehensive 25-year plan today to eliminate family and sexual violence. VIN Whanganui supports this strategy which aims to create fundamental, society-wide change in Aotearoa. Its vision is a nation where people can flourish, free from the threat of family violence and sexual violence. What is Te Aorerekura? Te Aorerekura is a roadmap which sets Aotearoa on an inter-generational journey toward wellbeing and a stronger, more peaceful nation. Its guiding vision, or moemoeā, is that: “All people in Aotearoa New Zealand are thriving, their wellbeing is enhanced and sustained because they are safe and supported to live their lives free from family violence and sexual violence”. Te Aorerekura is the result of discussions with thousands of people, including ongoing input from tangata whenua, leaders from our diverse communities, sector specialists and government agencies. Te Tiriti o Waitangi/Treaty of Waitangi is woven throughout Te Aorerekura, and has tangata whenua, children, young people, those impacted by violence, and their communities at its core. The strategy builds on all the good work we know is already happening across government and within our communities. But such a major shift in our attitude toward family violence and sexual violence requires a new way of working. Te Aorerekura brings together a unified whole-of-government response and sets out an equal partnership with tangata whenua and communities. It recognises that this is a problem New Zealanders can only solve by working together. The framework also helps keep governments and the public sector accountable for their actions and progress in achieving the vision of Te Aorerekura. What are the principles of Te Aorerekura? Te Aorerekura is based on a set of core beliefs and values. These are: Equity and inclusion: Prioritising equity and inclusion in all spaces, ensuring equity of resourcing and outcomes; that all voices are heard and represented at all levels of decision-making; and that all people have options about the supports they receive. Aroha: Acting with aroha, recognising that treating people with kindness and care enables healing and demonstrates what respectful relationships look like. Tika and Pono: All actions are tika and pono, where people act with fairness, integrity, and are accountable for their actions. Kotahitanga: People work together in an integrated way, reflecting kotahitanga to provide support to others, and receive support in return. Kaitiakitanga: Kaitiakitanga is practised – all people understand their roles and responsibilities to ensure the safety and wellbeing of people and their families and whānau.
