Staying Safe and Sane

QUICK EXIT

Survival – Rights and Realities

Neon sign reading 'KNOW YOUR RIGHTS' mounted on a brick wall

The Universal Safety Clause: Your Absolute Right

No matter where you are, no matter what time it is, and no matter who you are with—nobody has the right to offer you harm. Period.

Violence, threats, and abuse are never “part of the deal,” and they are never your fault. Whether you are at home, at work, in a flat, or on the street, you have the absolute right to exist without fear of:

  • Physical Violence: Nobody has the right to touch you in a way that hurts or intimidates you.
  • Sexual Harm: Your body belongs to you. Consent must be clear, enthusiastic, and can be withdrawn at any second.
  • Emotional Abuse: Constant put-downs, threats, or controlling behavior (like taking your phone or money) is violence.
  • Workplace Bullying: A boss or colleague does not have the right to harass or threaten you just because they pay your wages.

If you are in immediate danger right now, call 111.

If you aren’t safe where you are staying or who you are with, reach out to these “Safe Zones” immediately:

  • Shine (Domestic Violence): Call 0508 744 633 (9am to 11pm) for a safe way out of a violent home or relationship.
  • Safe to Talk: Call 0800 044 334 or text 4334 for confidential support regarding sexual harm.
  • Youthline: Text 234 if you just need to talk to someone about a situation that feels “off.”

The Tribe is a sanctuary. We do not tolerate violence, and we will always back your right to be safe.

Why this is “True and Correct” for 15–25s:

  • The Crimes Act & Domestic Violence Act: These laws in New Zealand apply to everyone, regardless of age. Under-18s have additional protections under the Oranga Tamariki Act.
  • The Employment Relations Act: Specifically protects workers from “Personal Grievances” including harassment and a non-safe working environment.
  • The Bill of Rights Act: Guarantees your right to freedom from torture or cruel, degrading, or disproportionately severe treatment.

Work and Income (WINZ): The Safety Net

The Reality: We want you in a career you love, but sometimes you need a “bridge” to get there. WINZ isn’t a lifestyle choice; it’s a resource you are legally entitled to if you hit a wall.

  • Jobseeker Support: If you are 18+ and looking for work or training, this is your basic survival income. Be aware that the government has introduced a Parental Assistance Test for 18- and 19-year-olds. Unless you have children, your parents’ income may now affect whether you can get Jobseeker Support or the Emergency Benefit. If you can’t reasonably rely on your parents for support, you may need to prove a “support gap” to qualify.
  • Youth Payment: If you are 16 or 17 and cannot live with your parents, you may be eligible for direct financial support.
  • Emergency Grants: You can apply for “one-off” help for food, dental emergencies, or rent arrears even if you aren’t on a permanent benefit.
  • Your Rights: You have the right to bring a support person (a “Tribe” member or advocate) to any WINZ meeting.
  • The Tool: Work and Income – Check What You Might Get — An anonymous tool to see what money you are entitled to.

The 4 Survival Zones

1. Flatting & Housing (Your Whare)

  • The Reality: Landlords often try to bully young tenants.
  • The Rights: You are entitled to a warm, dry home and 48 hours’ notice for inspections.
  • The Tool: Tenancy Services — The official site for bonds and rent rules.

2. Work & Pay (Your Cents)

  • The Reality: Trial periods and unpaid training are common ways young workers get ripped off.
  • The Rights: You must have a written contract and be paid at least the minimum wage (or 80% if you are a “starting-out” worker).
  • The Tool: Employment NZ — Your guide to rest breaks and holiday pay.

3. The Law & Police (Your Liberty)

  • The Reality: Interactions with police can be intimidating.
  • The Rights: You have the right to remain silent and to know why you are being stopped. If you are under 18, you are dealt with by the Youth Court.
  • The Tool: YouthLaw Aotearoa — Free legal advice for anyone under 25.

4. Money & Debt (Your Freedom)

  • The Reality: “Buy Now, Pay Later” schemes can trap you in debt early.
  • The Rights: You can apply for “Hardship” if you can’t make payments.
  • The Tool: MoneyTalks — A free, anonymous helpline for debt.

The Survival Checklist

  1. Save the Number: Put 0800 YOUTHLAW (YouthLaw) in your phone.
  2. Check Your Entitlement: Use the WINZ “Check What You Might Get” tool to see your safety net options.
  3. Know the 111 Rule: If you are not safe, call for help immediately.