Epoch New Zealand
EPOCH New Zealand was a small charitable trust formed in 1997. It advocated for law change for more than twelve years. Having accomplished this goal, EPOCH NZ closed its activities but maintained this website as a source of information.
EPOCH NZ focussed much of its work on engaging support for law reform from various non-governmental organisations which advocated for the rights of children or delivered services to children. EPOCH NZ developed and maintained a network of organisations supportive of positive non-violent child discipline and repeal of s59 of the Crimes Act 1961. Member agencies and others were engaged in action and kept informed through regular bulletins and newsletters. EPOCH also lobbied politicians and other person of influence.
As the campaign for change grew and law change became a distinct possibility, EPOCH NZ worked closely with other supportive agencies on the campaign for repeal and where possible, to counter the increasingly vociferous opposition to law reform. Some of the major agencies which were particularly active in promoting law reform were: Barnados NZ, the Children's Commissioner, Every Child Counts, the Families Commission, the Royal New Zealand Plunket Society, Save the Children NZ and UNICEF NZ.
EPOCH NZ relied principally on the tireless (and largely voluntary) efforts of a small number of women. Four of the original signatories to the Trust Deed in 1997 remained as current and active trustees until it was wound up, a testament to their commitment to making a change for children.
EPOCH NZ was funded through a number of grants and donations. In particular EPOCH NZ wishes to acknowledge the extraordinary generosity of the JR McKenzie Trust whose significant contribution enabled trustees to focus efforts on the cause itself rather than on fundraising.