Changes to the way sexual violence cases are handled in court were recommended in a report by the New Zealand Law Commission, with the majority of recommendations supported by Tauranga organisations.
The Law Commission reviewed the justice system experiences of sexual violence victims and released the recommended changes on Monday, including a specialist sexual violence court, with judges receiving extra training, time limits for sexual violence cases going to trial, and the option of alternative processes outside of the criminal justice system.
Justice Minister Amy Adams said, in a press release, the Government would consider the recommendations.
"Victims of sexual violence have already suffered a harrowing ordeal. It's worth exploring any ideas for how the justice system can better meet their needs," Ms Adams said. The report found a victim's recovery time could be delayed due to the time spent waiting for trial and having to give evidence in court.
Tauranga Women's Refuge manager Angie Warren-Clark said changes to the justice system were "absolutely fundamental".