Breaking Silence - Series One

Web series Breaking Silence shines light into a dark corner; New Zealand's shameful rates of domestic abuse. Presenter, author and survivor Simonne Butler meets ordinary women and men sharing stories of pain and hope. In episode one Butler discusses her own recovery from an attempt on her life. In episode two David White spreads messages of violence prevention after his daughter's murder. Episodes three and five tell stories of recovery from physical and financial abuse. In episode five Butler interviews Farida Sultana from Shakti Refuge. Episode seven highlights an organisation helping women start again after leaving Women's Refuge. Episode eight touches on abuse in Pasifika households and how it can stay hidden. Check out the full episode guide here.

...his behaviours were absolute indicators of the control and abuse in a family violence situation. Monitoring where Helen was and going shopping, 'who you're talking to?'. It's even checking the speedo the car;, it's looking at the phone when the back's turned to see what messages you've got. So many little things, until it gets bigger and bigger, more confrontational...

– David White on the man who killed his daughter, in episode two

Key Cast & Crew

Naashon Zalk

Director, Cinematographer

Simonne Butler

Presenter, Interviewer

Paul Oremland

Editor

Juanita Edwards

Producer

Truda Chadwick

Narrator

Lisa Metivier

Research