The Royal Commission investigating abuse in state and faith-based care has held its 500th private session with survivors.
Judge Coral Shaw the as chair of the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care. Photo: RNZ / Patrice Allen
Commissioners have been travelling across the country meeting individually with people to hear their accounts of abuse who were in care between 1950 and 1999.
The commission said survivors had described abuse in many different settings including foster homes, borstals, health and education institutions and in religious and state schools.
Royal Commission chair Coral Shaw said it was a privilege to hear from those who chose to come forward to share their often painful experiences.
"My fellow commissioners and I have listened to many people willing to tell of abuse and neglect they suffered while they were in care and continue to do so. Survivors are also telling us about the lifetime and intergenerational effects of abuse on them and their families.
"These accounts are being used by the inquiry to build a picture of the way children, young people and vulnerable adults in care have been treated by those who were responsible for them,'' she said.
About 1700 people are registered to speak with the commission and many more are expected over the course of the inquiry.
The Abuse in Care Inquiry resumes its public hearings next week in Auckland where survivors who have sought redress for abuse suffered in state care will give evidence.
It is set down for 2 weeks.
The Crown will respond later in October.
