Source: New Zealand Government
Money seized from criminals will be used to help victims of family violence escape dangerous homes without having to leave their pets behind, Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee announced today.
Pet Refuge New Zealand Charitable Trust will receive $2 million over three years from the Proceeds of Crime Fund to maintain nationwide emergency shelter and care for pets belonging to people escaping family violence.
“No one should have to choose between their own safety and leaving a beloved pet behind with a violent partner,” says Mrs McKee.
“For some victims, that is exactly the choice they face. Abusers can threaten or harm animals as another way of controlling their victims, and fear for a pet’s safety can keep people trapped in dangerous homes.
“Research by Women’s Refuge found more than half of women surveyed had delayed leaving a violent situation because they feared for their pets. That is a very real barrier to getting people to safety.
“Pet Refuge provides secure temporary accommodation for pets while victims and their families access refuge, emergency housing and other support. Since opening its shelter in 2021, Pet Refuge has provided more than 82,000 safe bed nights for pets affected by family violence. Its service combines a secure Auckland shelter with vetted boarding providers around the country, allowing it to respond to cases nationwide.
“This is exactly the sort of practical intervention the Proceeds of Crime Fund should support. We are taking money out of the hands of criminals and using it to remove an obstacle that can keep victims exposed to violence.
“The service provided by Pet Refuge gives Police and frontline family violence agencies another practical option when helping people at immediate risk.
“Police officers regularly encounter people at some of the most dangerous moments of their lives. When someone is ready to leave an abusive home, we want as few barriers as possible standing in their way.
“Knowing there is somewhere safe and confidential for a pet to go can make an enormous difference and allow Police and other frontline services to focus on getting the victim and their family to safety.”
The funding will support Pet Refuge’s existing nationwide service while it develops a second shelter, expected to become operational in 2028. It will contribute to pet welfare staff, case coordination, external boarding and the costs associated with emergency placements and care.
The funding is being provided through the Proceeds of Crime Fund, which uses assets recovered under the Criminal Proceeds (Recovery) Act to support initiatives aimed at reducing violent crime.
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/09/24/crime-proceeds-to-help-victims-and-their-pets-escape-violence/