Today, I'm apologizing on behalf of the government to
everyone who suffered abuse, harm and neglect. While
in state care to make this apology to all survivors
on behalf of my own and previous governments, you
deserved so much better. And I am deeply sorry
that New Zealand did not do better by you.
I am sorry that you were not believed when you
came forward to report your abuse. I am sorry
that many bystanders, staff volunteers and carers turned a
blind eye and failed to stop or report abuse.
It was horrific, it was heartbreaking, it was
wrong and it should never have happened for many of
you. It changed the course of your life.
And for that, the government must take responsibility.