Women’s Refuge is delighted to announce the appointment of Naomi Ogg as Chief Executive, commencing 1st December 2025.

Naomi, a descendant of Ngāti Kauwhata, has worked within the National Collective of Independent Women’s Refuges (NCIWR) for over a decade and in the wider family violence sector for 13 years. She is currently the manager of Te Roopu Whakaruruhau in Palmerston North.

With experience both behind the scenes and on the frontline, Naomi has contributed to several collectives and advisory groups focused on family violence and community wellbeing. She brings deep insight into policy, systems change, and kaupapa Māori approaches to supporting wāhine, tamariki, and whānau. Her leadership is grounded in integrity, connection, and a long-standing commitment to the organisation.

She succeeds Dr Ang Jury ONZM, who will be stepping down at the end of this year after 10 years as Chief Executive and more than 20 years of service within the organisation.

“While I am sad to be leaving and embracing the closing of this chapter for myself, I am thrilled to be able to pass the mantle to a true wahine toa,” says Dr Ang Jury ONZM.

“Naomi has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to our kaupapa and, over the years, has walked alongside wāhine, tamariki, and whānau in refuge, contributing to our wider movement in many meaningful ways. I know that under her leadership, the organisation will continue to grow, and she will strengthen our mahi—continuing to honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi.”

Naomi says she is excited to begin this new role and continue advocating for the safety and wellbeing of all those affected by family violence.

“It’s a real privilege to step into this role. I’ve spent time listening to, walking alongside, and learning from our communities—those lessons will come with me into this new chapter. The Women’s Refuge movement itself, and the wāhine who have held and shaped it, have been some of my greatest teachers.”

“I want to acknowledge Dr Ang Jury for her leadership and staunch commitment over many years—she leaves a strong legacy. I know I’m joining a team of passionate and experienced kaimahi and I’m looking forward to learning from them as we continue this important mahi together.”.

New Zealand’s family violence statistics

• On average, just under 50,000 women and children are referred to Women’s Refuge each year.

• On average Women’s Refuge answers 71 crisis calls per day.

• New Zealand has the highest rates of family violence in the OECD.

• 1 in 3 women will experience abuse in their lifetime in Aotearoa.

• Nearly half of all homicides and reported violent crimes are related to family violence.

• Around 67% of family violence episodes go unreported.

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