Online exploitation cases on the rise - here's how and why predators are targeting Kiwi kids

Jul 1, 2025

Ask episode

Chapters

Transcript

Episode notes

A warning that today’s episode contains content that listeners might find disturbing. You can find support links below.

New Zealand police are becoming increasingly concerned about online groups targeting Kiwi children through social media.

Apps like Snapchat have become a breeding ground for sex abuse material, while overseas groups are actively participating in “sadistic online exploitation”.

And it’s not just happening offshore, with two sisters this week sharing their story of being targeted by a Wellington man masquerading as an 11-year-old girl.

NZ Herald investigative reporter Michael Morrah has been looking into this case for months, and joins us today on The Front Page to explore what’s happening online.

Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network.

Host/Sound Engineer: Richard Martin
Producer: Ethan Sills

Michael Morrah's full story from this week can be found here.

SEXUAL HARM - Where to get help

If you've ever experienced sexual assault or abuse and need to talk to someone, contact Safe to Talk confidentially, any time 24/7:

Call 0800 044 334
Text 4334
Email support@safetotalk.nz

For more info or to web chat visit www.safetotalk.nz
Alternatively contact your local police station.

If you have been sexually assaulted, remember it's not your fault.

Youth services:

Youthline: Call 0800 376 633 or text 234
What's Up: Call 0800 942 8787 (11am to 11pm) or webchat (11am to 10.30pm)
Depression helpline: Call 0800 111 757 or text 4202 (available 24/7)
Helpline: Need to talk? Call or text 1737
Aoake te Rā (Bereaved by Suicide Service): Call 0800 000 053

For more information and support, talk to your local doctor, hauora, community mental health team, or counselling service.

The Mental Health Foundation has more helplines and service contacts - click here for information

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.