New Zealand

Phone line for Gloriavale complaints

14:53 pm on 1 May 2015

Police have set up a freephone number for the growing number of people wanting to discuss their experiences at Gloriavale.

The West Coast Christian community is being investigated as a result of allegations made by former members, including inappropriate relationships between some adults and minors.

Tasman district commander Superintendent Karyn Malthus said the 0800 number would make it easy for people throughout the country to contact officers directly involved in the investigation.

She said calls would be answered by the Tasman police, who had been trained to deal with sensitive issues, and information will be collected before action, if any, is taken.

Police would not say how many complaints about Gloriavale they have had or what they relate to.

Ms Malthus said to protect the privacy and welfare of people raising concerns, the police would not be commenting on the investigation.

The number set up by police for complaints is 0800 400 800