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Demand for Shakti's safe houses has doubled over the past two years

After the opening of our third safe house, Shakti recently spoke to RNZ about what this means for women and families seeking safety and support."Shakti Women's Refuge has provided more than 7000 overnight spaces over the past two years, almost double the roughly 3600 spaces it provided in the preceding two-year period.The organisation opened a third safe house in Auckland last month as it continues to see women and children seeking support, including women who face additional challenges because ...

Shakti speaks out on dowry abuse in NZ Herald article

A recent article in the NZ Herald, 'Indian police seek deportation of New Zealand-based man over alleged dowry abuse, reached out to Shakti for comment on the issue of dowry abuse.'Shakti, a domestic and sexual violence intervention agency focusing on Asian, African, and Middle Eastern communities, said more than 75% of Indian victims coming through its doors had reported dowry abuse.'Read the full article here. ...

Shakti’s 30th Anniversary Featured in Indian Weekender

Shakti Women’s Refuge Trust was recently featured in the Indian Weekender, recognising our 30 years of service and advocacy for migrant and refugee women across Aotearoa. The article highlights our nationwide anniversary events and the ongoing work to end family violence.Read the full article on Indian Weekender...

My Yellow Sun – Women's Perspectives on War book release

This book features stories of women displaced by war, who met with Farida Sultana and Shila Nair in Europe while they were making a documentary aimed at demystifying the term ‘refugee’ and providing first-hand accounts from displaced women who paid the ultimate price of war. The book is written by Farida along with Shasha Ali and with content contributions from Shila.The book was launched in the week of UN International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, at the Women’s Bookshop...

Charity fundraising event

A fundraiser organised by Shakti Governance members including long-term member Dr. Shanthi Selvakumar was also held at Novotel Hotel, Auckland on October 25, tickets for which were sold to raise funds for the cause....

Shakti's book launch

At the Parliament event, a book on Shakti – OurStory: 30 years of Social Transformation was formally released by the Chief Victims Advisor Ruth MoneyThe book, chronicled by long term Shakti member Shila Nair, captures our history over the years and includes survivor stories.100% of proceeds from the sale of this book will go towards the cause of eliminating violence against women and children.To order the book, please email: finance@shakti.org.nzPrice: $50 per bookFollowing this national event...

Celebrating Shakti's 30th Anniversary

On 22 October 2025, Shakti proudly commemorated our 30th Anniversary in service with a national event held at Parliament. This milestone brought together founding members, political leaders, partner agencies, funders, and long-standing supporters from across the country to honour three decades of commitment to empowering ethnic women and children and helping them lead violence-free lives.Shakti Women’s Aid UK, CEO Girijamba Polubothu was present and was the keynote speaker at the event....