I hope you’ve been ok these last weeks. Processing the horrific content of the Epstein files has been truly disturbing. For survivors of high-control groups, the news cycle can feel even heavier than for others, says Elise Heerde from the Religious Trauma Collective. “Not because the contexts are the same, but because the pattern is: Abuse exposed. Power named. Evidence public. And still – no real accountability.” That particular kind of betrayal leaves a mark. If you’re feeling anger and grief, you’re not alone. Kia kaha!
Over to our latest content:
- Cult infiltration on campus and markets
- MP Duncan Webb as our Public Advocate
- RISE/Hikitia! professional event in Nelson
CULT ACTIVITY AT UNI AND MARKETS
University semesters are starting now. Campuses are a preferred hunting ground for Korean bible cults that target new students. The NZ Herald published a warning last week and interviewed me (and the UC chaplain) about these insidious tactics.
I’m just as concerned about public events that allow abusive groups to participate, oblivious of their PR and recruitment tactics. Our volunteers spotted stalls by well-known controversial cults in plain sight (photo above, from left to right): Falun Dafa (aka Falun Gong) with a spinning wheel and prizes at the Martinborough Fair; Scientology peddling Dianetics books at the Melbourne Show; and Gloriavale selling art and baking at the Barrytown Market – to name a few.
If you have more examples (and photos), please send them to us. Let organisers know too if they’re lacking discernment. Make your voice heard.
CHRISTCHURCH MP IS OUR PUBLIC ADVOCATE
In much better news: We’re very lucky to have Hon Dr Duncan Webb on board as our freshly appointed Public Advocate. After opening the first New Zealand cult conference in 2024 with a powerful speech (which you can watch here), he is now stepping up to support our work across the social, political and public sector.
Duncan is a New Zealand lawyer, academic, politician and fierce social justice advocate. As professor of law at Canterbury University, Labour MP for Christchurch Central and Minister of the Crown, he has shaped legal reforms and policy. He has been vocal in his criticism of cults like Gloriavale and has a deep personal conviction to expose manipulative entities, protect vulnerable individuals and advocate for systemic reforms to end the abuse in high-control groups. A perfect fit and a strong ally!
BEYOND BELIEF: DECULT COMES TO NELSON
Join us at the top of the South in Whakatū (Nelson) on Thursday, 26 March from 12 – 4 pm for Beyond Belief: Understanding Cult Dynamics where we’ll screen the Decult documentary followed by kōrero and kai.
Other presenters are Willow Duffy (founder and CEO of Safeguarding Children), Kyle Eggleton (Associate Professor, rural GP and survivor advocate) and Lindy Jacomb (founder of the Olive Leaf Network). This free event is hosted by Hikitia!, RISE’s ACC‑funded primary work in the region to prevent sexual harm and family violence. It’s especially suited for those in the support sector and allied fields.
What you’ll gain:
- A stronger understanding of high‑control group dynamics
- More confidence responding to coercive control and trauma
- Practice insights grounded in prevention and ethics
- Tools for safeguarding children and supporting whānau
👉 To register your interest, email [email protected] with “Beyond Belief registration” in the subject line.
I’m excited about this collaboration and hope to see some of you there – please spread the word. And if you or your organisation would like to offer similar talks with experts and survivors, then do get in touch. We’re always happy to bring our mahi to a town near you. Thanks for being part of this growing community.
Ngā mihi nui,
Anke