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Gloriavale Inquiry Reveals Ongoing Child Safety Concerns

11/19/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Authorities provided parenting advice to Gloriavale leaders in 2017 after reports of suffocation tactics used on children.
Despite this, leaders encouraged parents to continue the practice privately, according to former resident David Courage, who noted it was common when he left in 2019.
A new inquiry began in late 2024 after evidence of airway obstruction emerged, resulting in formal warnings for two adults.
Barrister Brian Henry criticized Oranga Tamariki for not protecting children, stating the technique aimed to break their will.
Social Development Minister Louise Upston acknowledged the issue's severity and confirmed that all agencies are addressing child safety concerns.

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Story summary

Authorities provided parenting advice to Gloriavale leaders in 2017 after reports of suffocation tactics used on children.
Despite this, leaders encouraged parents to continue the practice privately, according to former resident David Courage, who noted it was common when he left in 2019.
A new inquiry began in late 2024 after evidence of airway obstruction emerged, resulting in formal warnings for two adults.
Barrister Brian Henry criticized Oranga Tamariki for not protecting children, stating the technique aimed to break their will.
Social Development Minister Louise Upston acknowledged the issue's severity and confirmed that all agencies are addressing child safety concerns.