Oranga Tamariki Act 1989, s 15
Yes. Oranga Tamariki (OT) can talk to children at school without a parent or guardian being there. Children can ask for an adult to be present during the interview as part of an OT investigation or assessment.
Anyone can contact OT if they think a child has been harmed, abused or neglected. Schools should have a process for reporting these concerns and information about what situations they would involve OT.
Usually, the school will contact you if your child is having problems at school or if the police are involved. The school does not have to tell parents or guardians that OT is talking to a student if the parent or guardian is the person accused of causing harm or if the child has asked the school or OT not to tell them.
For more information, see the section “Dealing with Oranga Tamariki” in the Community Law Manual