Breaking Silence - Series Three

Presenter, author and abuse survivor Simonne Butler continues to share the voices of New Zealanders impacted by domestic abuse in this third series of Breaking Silence. This series explores legal and systemic barriers survivors can face, from family court disputes in episode one, to international custody battles in episode four. Episode two highlights how cyberbullying and grooming can leave young people vulnerable. Advocates like Debbs Murray and Detective Jaimie Leigh share their insights in supporting victims in episodes three and six, while episode seven follows Fiona Southorn’s journey from abuse survivor to Paralympic success. Across two episodes, Butler opens up about her own journey of survival and healing, Check out the full episode guide here. 

...I remember lying there and thinking "this is it", and I was okay and I'd made my peace, just because it meant I was never ever going to have to deal with him again.

– Presenter Simonne Butler recalls the night her partner almost killed her, early in episode five

Key Cast & Crew

Daniel Habedank

Online Editor, Composer - Theme Music

Karen MacKenzie

Director (episodes 1 - 5, 7 & 9)

Lisa Greenfield

Post-Production Director (episodes 1, 3 - 5 & 8), Editor (episodes 1, 3 - 8),

Simonne Butler

Presenter, Interviewer

Juanita Edwards

Series Producer, Director

Truda Chadwick

Narrator