Contextual hearing 29 October to 8 November 2019
About the hearing
The Contextual hearing was the Inquiry’s first public hearing. The Inquiry heard from witnesses on topics that provided context to the wide ranging scope of the Inquiry and that the Inquiry explored in more detail over the next few years.
Survivors, family members and supporters, academics, representatives of interested organisations and members of the public watched the hearing from the public gallery, and it was live-streamed across New Zealand.
***Distressing content warning***
This material contains explicit descriptions of tūkino – abuse, harm and trauma – and may evoke strong negative, emotional responses for readers. Although this response may be unpleasant and difficult to tolerate, it is also appropriate to feel upset. Respect others’ truths, breathe deeply, take care of your spirit and be gentle with your heart. However, if you or someone in your close circle needs support, please contact your healthcare or wellbeing provider.
Hearing schedule
Outlined below are the survivors and experts that spoke at the hearing. Witness statements, briefs of evidence, video footage and transcripts of their testimony can be accessed through the links below.