Professor Terryann Clark | Alarm as New Research Shows One in Eight Teens Experience Sexual Violence

Dale Husband Professor Terryann Clark | Cure Kids Professorial Chair in Child and Adolescent Mental Health at the University of Auckland

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New data released this week reveals that one in eight New Zealand teenagers report having experienced some form of sexual violence, prompting urgent calls from health and community advocates for stronger prevention efforts, better support services, and education grounded in respect and safety.

The figures, drawn from recent research into the experiences of rangatahi, paint a stark picture of the risks young people face – with impacts that reach deep into wellbeing, mental health, education and future relationships. The study underscores that sexual violence is not an isolated issue, but one that affects families, schools and communities across Aotearoa.

Advocates highlight that for many Māori rangatahi, the effects are compounded by existing inequities in health, justice and social services. Māori youth – already disproportionately represented in statistics for other forms of violence and harm – may face additional barriers to accessing culturally safe support and pathways to healing.

Experts say the findings demand a comprehensive response, including:

• Strengthening school-based education on consent, healthy relationships and digital safety;

• Culturally responsive support services that meet the needs of Māori, Pasifika, and diverse communities;

• Improved reporting pathways that reduce stigma and protect privacy; and

• Community-led prevention initiatives that involve whānau, hapū and iwi in shaping solutions.

Sexual violence prevention groups are urging government agencies, education leaders and community organisations to work together to interrupt cycles of harm before they start, and to offer rangatahi the tools and confidence to seek support.

The research also highlights the importance of listening to young people’s voices – ensuring they have a say in the policies and programmes that affect their lives.

As advocacy intensifies, families and communities across Aotearoa are being called on to take seriously the challenge of protecting tamariki and rangatahi from sexual harm, and to champion environments where all young people can thrive with dignity and safety.

Radio Waatea will continue to follow responses from government, tangata whenua leaders and youth groups as Aotearoa confronts this pressing social issue.

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