Oranga Tamariki says the physical and emotional wellbeing of children taken into its care would shock and sadden most New Zealanders.
Most are from backgrounds involving serious factors which can include exposure to family violence, parental drug and alcohol abuse, sexual and physical abuse and chronic neglect.
But some Māori are challenging the approach Oranga Tamariki is taking in the removal of babies from the maternity wards.
- Oranga Tamariki isn't 'snatching babies' - Children's Minister Tracey Martin
- Fewer kids going into state care, but they're staying longer
- More than half of children abused in state care are Māori
Last week Ngāti Kahungunu chair Ngahiwi Tomoana vowed not one more baby from his iwi would be taken, while Māori Council executive director Matthew Tukaki wants to see iwi better resourced to help tackle child abuse.
Watch their interview with The Hui.
