A long-running self-defence programme that claims to have reached more than half a million women nationwide is adjusting to life with reduced funding.
Kia Haumaru - Personal Safety Education's network of trained instructors has delivered self-defence education to schools and communities throughout New Zealand for more than 30 years.
However, Oranga Tamariki funding ceased in April, meaning that Kia Haumaru has not been able to provide as many classes in schools free of charge.
Nevertheless, the programme has continued to offer a few community classes free of charge, with one targeting migrant participants aged older than 16.
"The training extends beyond physical techniques - we take a holistic approach," said instructor Julie Poirier, who has taught at Auckland Women's Center since 2019.
"It's about knowing your rights, recognising your inner strength and understanding there are many ways to resist violence."
Self-defense instructor Julie Poirier Photo: RNZ / Yiting Lin
Participants ranged from women in their teens to those in their 80s, representing diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds.
In a recent session, they practised punches, kicks, breaking free from wrist grabs, and blocking strikes, alongside discussions on relationship safety, de-escalation and recognising early signs of abuse.
Sharron Holden, 65, joined the programme after experiencing a tense situation on the street that, while not leading to physical confrontation, left her traumatised.
"You never know when you might be attacked. You can freeze or go blank. Learning these skills is valuable," Holden said.
"I'm also encouraging my daughter to join."
Regina Ritter, a 23-year-old University of Auckland student, enrolled in the course amid growing concerns for her safety when walking alone in the city center.
She appreciated the practical exercises with other women.
"I've always wondered if I would be able to scream or shout to protect myself in a real situation," Ritter said. "Practising together here has really helped build my confidence."
Julie Poirier demonstrates self-defence techniques. Photo: RNZ / Yiting Lin
Poirier said the programme helped to foster individual and community skills, with participants forming friendships through shared experiences.
The connection could help those living with trauma feel supported, reconnected and ready to re-engage with life, she said.
"Participants have told me the course gave them the confidence to speak up about sexual harassment at work," she said.
"In doing so, they discovered others had similar experiences and were able to take action."
However, funding cuts had put the continuation of free courses in schools in jeopardy, she said.
Future offerings were expected to be a mix of paid and limited free sessions, with fewer facilitators available, affecting the overall reach in the community.
"Those who need it most will miss out," Poirier said. "People living in poverty often have to prioritise groceries or power bills over their safety, even though they are more likely to be targeted and experience crime."
The programme was now seeking grants, partnerships and other options to keep courses accessible, including more self-funded sessions.
The next free workshop open to the public will be held at the Auckland Women's Centre on 27 September. Photo: RNZ / Yiting Lin
"Finding our voice and recognizing our own worth is crucial," Poirier said.
"When more people connect with that, we can have collective conversations that violence is unacceptable - and that's how change happens," she said.
"And that's what we are aiming for. Ultimately, it's improving society so everyone can feel safe."
