One year on: Marist Brothers NZ Affirm Commitment to Survivors with Support Services and Upcoming Public Apology

The 12 of November marks one year since the Governments National commitment to honouring and remembering survivors of historical abuse in state care and faith-based institutions. The Marist Brothers stand firmly in that commitment and join in marking this anniversary with deep respect and humility.

The Marist Brothers acknowledge the deep harm caused and the courage of those who have come forward. The Marist Brothers focus on listening, creating safe spaces for Survivors, tangata whaiora, victim and thrivers to share their experiences, and working together to build a future of support and healing.

To mark this occasion the Marist Brothers, want to announce that professional and independent counselling and therapy are available for anyone who experienced abuse while in the care of a Marist Brother or the Marist Institute. This support can be accessed by contacting the lay staff at the Marist Brothers Professional Standards Office who can provide further information.

Also, the Marist Brothers are honoured to announce their commitment to a public apology ceremony - further details will be shared in early 2026.

This important step is being developed with guidance from the Survivors Public Apology and Redress (SPAR) committee, a group of Survivors working alongside the Marist Brothers to ensure the public apology acknowledges the significant harm caused and takes meaningful steps toward healing and redress.

We sincerely thank every person who took the time to provide input into the planning of this ceremony. Your contributions are deeply appreciated. To all Survivors: we hear you, we honour you, and we remain committed to walking this path of accountability and care together.

Br Peter Horide

On behalf of the New Zealand Marist Brothers