More children will die unless New Zealanders adopt a zero tolerance to domestic violence

Preventing Violence in the Home says anyone who knew the Kahui twins were being abused has to accept some responsibility for their deaths.

Chris Kahui, the father of three-month-old twins Cru and Chris, has this afternoon been found not guilty of their murder.

New Zealand's largest not-for-profit group dedicated to keeping people safe in their own homes warns that more children like three month old twins Chris and Cru will be killed unless all New Zealanders adopt a zero tolerance to family violence.

Executive Director Jane Drumm says all family and friends visiting the Kahui home had a responsibility to report the abuse, or do something about it.

"All it takes is one person to speak up to save a life, or in this case, two lives. Domestic violence thrives in secrecy," she says.

Ms Drumm says domestic violence perpetrators have reported that hearing a simple 'cut it out' from someone close, like a friend or family member can have an enormous impact.

Alternatively, support is available from government agencies or through the national domestic violence helpline 0508 DVHELP (0508 384 357).

Ms Drumm says ordinary New Zealanders need to share in the responsibility to stamp out domestic violence.

"New Zealanders need to open their eyes and understand the extent of the problem. Everyone needs to recognise the signs, know how to help safely and be prepared to take action," she says.

As part of the drive to increase awareness, between June 9-20 Preventing Violence in the Home is running a fundraising event 'Stop for NZ's Biggest Morning Tea', which is being supported by the Bank of New Zealand.

ENDS

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