Choose holiday cheer rather than festive fear

Hawke's Bay police are urging families to avoid situations which could "escalate" into physical or emotional abuse this festive season.

Detective Sergeant Darren Pritchard, the Hastings Family Violence co-ordinator, said incidents of family violence increase dramatically during the festive season.

"Christmas is an extremely emotional time of the year and an expensive time for many families," Mr Pritchard said.

"The impact of these costs is sometimes psychological. More often it becomes a time for immense fear, when it should be a time for happiness and cheer."

Over a dozen calls were attended during the Christmas and Boxing Day period in Hastings.

"Children are the biggest victims. Often they don't understand what has happened, why it happened, or how to prevent it happening."

The dynamics surrounding family violence were "complex".

"It's often escalated by arguments over money, relationships, access to children, visiting relatives, plus a variety of other domestic causes and issues. Some arguments disintegrate into violence causing injury to victims, with distress and real confusion to children."

Tips for a violence-free festive season:

Set aside money to cover bills in January and February.

Moderate your drinking.

If your situation has become heated, take time out.

If you are feeling afraid, talk to someone you trust.

Don't sweat the small stuff.

If you share joint custody of children - come to an agreement so that all the children get to spend time with each of you.

Most importantly - if you have any fears for your own or your children's safety, contact the police immediately.