Te Ao Māramatanga Statement on the Royal Commission into Abuse in State Care

3 November 2025 • Media Releases

Te Ao Māramatanga Statement on the Royal Commission into Abuse in State Care

Te Ao Māramatanga | New Zealand College of Mental Health Nurses acknowledges the findings and recommendations of the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in State Care. This statement is informed by kōrero with survivors and their networks, and honours all individuals, families, and whānau who experienced tūkino (abuse and neglect) while in the care of state-run or faith-based institutions. We also acknowledge those who passed before having their experiences heard.

We accept the findings of Whanaketia and recognise the significant and lasting impacts of institutional tūkino on many people’s lives—including loss of opportunity, compromised health and wellbeing, and disconnection from whānau, identity and community. We acknowledge that these impacts continue across generations.

We also recognise that some health professionals, including nurses, were involved in causing harm. As the professional body for mental health, addiction, and disability nurses, Te Ao Māramatanga affirms its responsibility to act.

This statement outlines our commitment to support healing, strengthen professional standards, and work with survivors to ensure the future of mental health nursing is safe, accountable, and shaped by lived and living experience.

Please click here to view the full Statement.

Please click her to view the Media Release.

The recorded statement will be available shortly.

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Te Ao Māramatanga Statement on the Royal Commission into Abuse in State Care

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