Kahira Olley (Ngāti Rongomai, Ngāti Pikiao, Ngāti Toa), after experiencing family violence for 25 years, established the Save Our Babies Charitable Trust and initiated programmes to support and empower victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse in Rotorua.

Her initiatives offer a safe space for women and girls to talk about their experiences and receive guidance and support. As well as support groups, they include a community fitness group, a free school lunch programme, free clothing through ‘Boutique of Aroha’, and a photoshoot and runway event with models who are survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse. She was also recently a finalist in the Kiwibank Local Hero of the Year (2025).

Kahira Olley (Ngāti Rongomai, Ngāti Pikiao, Ngāti Toa), after experiencing family violence for 25 years, established the Save Our Babies Charitable Trust and initiated programmes to support and empower victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse in Rotorua.
Her initiatives offer a safe space for women and girls to talk about their experiences and receive guidance and support. As well as support groups, they include a community fitness group, a free school lunch programme, free clothing through ‘Boutique of Aroha’, and a photoshoot and runway event with models who are survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse. She was also recently a finalist in the Kiwibank Local Hero of the Year (2025).

John Cowan hosts ‘Real Life’, a weekly nationwide chat show on Newstalk ZB featuring a different high-profile guest every week. John talks with them about their life, their upbringing, their passions and their view of the world.

Real Life With John Cowan

Kahira Olley MNZM - Domestic Abuse Advocate

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/7784f840-c291-422a-924b-ad9000bbad71/clips/5fafa2f3-07ba-4458-a5b8-b2b0007508d2/transcript