Helplines in Canterbury, New Zealand.

Reach out to a hotline in Canterbury, New Zealand for support with abuse and domestic violence

Domestic abuse is any action intended to control or keep power over a spouse, partner, family member, or girlfriend/boyfriend. The abuse may take the form of something physical, or it may be emotional, verbal, sexual, or financial. You might feel threatened, controlled, or belittled.

If you are experiencing abuse or domestic violence, you do not have to deal with this on your own. Staff from 2 hotlines that support people experiencing abuse and domestic violence in Canterbury, New Zealand can help. Contact them if these signs of abuse sound familiar:

• Your partner/family member yells at you
• Being taken advantage of financially
• Your partner/family member has told you they will commit suicide if you leave
• Your belongings and property being destroyed
• Your devices are being monitored or tracked by a partner/family member
• Your partner/family member constantly checks up on you
• Being forced to have sex or perform other sexual activities that you don’t want to
• Your partner/family member has an unpredictable, violent temperament, and they direct the anger at you

After months or years of abusive behaviour from your partner or family member, you might doubting yourself and your sanity. However, this is your abuser talking. The abuse, and everything associated with it, is not your fault.

There is no universal recipe for setting free from abuse and domestic violence. However, know that many women, children, and men in Canterbury, New Zealand have made it. The first step in the process is opening up to a trusted and understanding person. Then, you can find your way out.

If you feel like you might need support today, try reaching out to a hotline in Canterbury, New Zealand. It's free and confidential.