The Abuse in Care Royal Commission’s Pacific investigation public hearing, Tulou - Our Pacific Voices: Tatala e Pulonga, starts today in Auckland.

Commissioners will hear from two witnesses. Witness evidence summaries are outlined below.

After a witness speaks their full evidence, along with footage of them speaking, will be available for download.

The hearing is being live-streamed on the Abuse in Care website(external link). 

Hearing location: Fale o Samoa, 141 Bader Drive, Māngere, Auckland 2022

19 July

9.30am (approx.)

Opening ceremony

11.45am (approx.)

Opening statements

12.15pm (approx.)

Associate Professor Hon. Luamanuvao Dame Winnie Laban DNZM QSO

Associate Professor Hon. Luamanuvao Dame Winnie Laban DNZM QSO is a former New Zealand politician, of Samoan heritage. She became the country’s first female Member of Parliament of Pacific Island descent. Luamanuvao will provide contextual background on the migration of Pacific peoples to Aotearoa, lived experience of growing up in Aotearoa during the 1950s to present, her career experience in the community and Government, and insights into abuse and neglect of Pacific peoples in care.

2.30pm (approx.)

Fa’amoana Luafutu

Fa’amoana Luafutu came to New Zealand from Samoa when he was 8 years old. On the first day of school his teacher was unable to pronounce his name and told him that his name would now be ‘John’.  Fa’amoana spent time in Owairaka Boys’ Home, Kohitere Boys’ Training Centre and other foster placements where he experienced abuse. He has told his story through theatre, writing, creative arts and music in the hope that sharing his experience through these mediums will help Pacific people in their own journeys. 

Media enquiries: 027 298 2094; media@abuseincare.org.nz

About the Abuse in Care Inquiry

The Abuse in Care Royal Commission of Inquiry is investigating the abuse and neglect that happened to children, young people and vulnerable adults in care from 1950 and 1999.