Oranga Tamariki (OT) get involved when the Police or a member of the public reports that they’re concerned about the care and/or protection of a child. The law says one or more of the following in section 14 of Oranga Tamariki Act 1989 must be met for there to be care and protection concerns:
The child is being, or likely being, harmed (physically, emotionally or sexually);
The child’s parents or guardians are unwilling or unable to care for the child; or
The child’s development, physical or mental or emotional well-being is or is likely to be impaired or neglected.
Different types of concerns will have different responses or plans from OT to keep children/tamariki safe. You can seek legal advice from a family lawyer if you’re unsure what your rights are.