Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington is aware that there have been distressing reports in the media about sexually harmful behaviours by a former staff member at the New Zealand School of Music—Te Kōkī, as well as media reports about sexually harmful behaviours in the wider Wellington music community. We know how upsetting these reports have been for both our staff and students and are truly sorry for the harm this news has caused. We want to assure you that the University is taking these allegations very seriously and is exploring the most appropriate pathways to address these concerns and support our community. We realise that this might be challenging for our community and want to ensure that we are able to support our staff, students and former students during this time.

The University is committed to providing safe, inclusive and restorative environments for our community to study, socialise and work. During an already uncertain and difficult year it is important that we reach out and check-in with each other, turn to friends and whānau for support, and access specialist support as needed.

Support and reporting pathways available for our community:

• If you would like to receive support or access information about reporting sexually harmful behaviours, the Student Interest team is the central point for former and current students to receive information about support and reporting options from trained specialist professionals. You can also report, disclose and anonymously report sexually harmful behaviours through the online reporting portal. You can find further information on the University’s stand-alone sexual harassment response policy and associated procedures here.
• Students can access free and confidential counselling through Mauri Ora. Please note that Mauri Ora have duty counsellors available each afternoon from 1pm to 4pm and students can attend without an appointment and be seen on the same day.
• Safe To Talk (0800 044 334) is a free and confidential service staffed by trained professionals that can be contacted anytime by those impacted by sexually harmful behaviour.
• If you require academic support, please contact your lecturer or Sally Jane as Director of the NZSM to discuss how we can accommodate your needs.

Ngā mihi,

Prof. Jennifer Windsor, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Humanities, Social Sciences, and Education

Prof. Sally Jane Norman, Director, New Zealand School of Music—Te Kōkī