The Government confirms details on national apology to survivors.
The New Zealand Government will hold a national apology ceremony on November 12, acknowledging the State's failures in care. The event will be held in Parliament and streamed online, with concurrent events in Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. Around 1200 survivors and support people are expected to attend.
According to Lead Coordination Minister Erica Stanford, the morning will begin with a mihi whakatau ceremony followed by survivor voices and apologies from government agency Chief Executives. The Prime Minister will then deliver the national apology at 11:30 am, followed by a statement from the Leader of the Opposition. Proceedings will be structured to ensure survivors feel supported throughout.
Wellbeing support services will be available at all locations, including mental health nurses, Rongoā Māori providers, and counsellors. The Government will also detail its response to the Royal Commission's final report during the ceremony.