Ākina's Statement on the Repeal of Section 7aa of the Oranga Tamariki act

Helmut Modlik at Select Committee Meeting for the repeal of Section 7aa of the Oranga Tamariki act.

Helmut Modlik, Tumu Whakarae of Te Rūnanga o Toa Rangatira Incorporated (supported by Trini Ropata-Tawhiri and Paranahia Broughton), delivered a powerful statement during an oral submission to the Select Committee considering the repeal of Section 7AA.

His message was clear: “Do what’s right, and if any of you can’t because your personal experience means you cannot objectively consider others' lived experience, preferences, Tīriti obligations, or objective evidence, then stand aside. It’s time to do what is right!”

Ngāti Toa and Oranga Tamariki codesigned a Family Group Conference model informed by mātauranga-a-iwi for whānau. The programme prioritises early intervention, family involvement, and whānau support, in a mana-enhancing, whānau centred approach.

The model's effectiveness is evident in whānau feedback:
“I felt supported, like I had a blanket wrapped around me. I don’t have much family support. They were my help.”
“ I took my mind away from thinking the worst, to thinking that things would be better if I just let them help.”
“We can see our tamariki thriving.”

Ngāti Toa believes that the success of this model - where whānau remain together and are not being placed in state care - has been enabled by 7AA.

Ākina stands in solidarity with Ngāti Toa, and in opposition to the proposed repeal of section 7aa of the Oranga Tamariki act.

Watch the powerful oral submission presented here

Read the media release here