Aotearoa New Zealand has the highest rates of domestic violence in the developed world. Breaking Silence returns for another series to tell the story of eight wāhine who have lived through or watched their loved ones suffer from heinous acts of violence. Some episodes highlight the important fact that not all abuse is physical — that in some cases the abuser doesn't touch you at all — and these stories focus on financial and psychological control. The subjects of these eight episodes now help others through art, music, therapy and early intervention. In the final episode, host Simonne Butler tells her own story of escape from an abusive relationship. Check out the full episode guide here.
Warning: This series deals with the subject of all types of abuse. Viewer discretion is advised.
He said, 'Don't tell anyone, or else.' So I never did.– Maureen Fepulea'i on the threats her abuser made, in episode one
Made with funding from NZ On Air
Interview with domestic abuse survivor Hina Nasir (episode five), Radio New Zealand, August 2024
Official website for financial wellbeing and hardship charity Good Shepherd (episode three)
Interview with presenter Simonne Butler, Radio New Zealand, November 2020
Murderer of Zana Yaqubi denied appeal (episode two), New Zealand Herald, October 2025
Official website for Tauranga Living Without Violence (episode seven)
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