“We appreciate that parents naturally want answers and reassurance. However, conversations of this nature are best undertaken by trained professionals to ensure children’s wellbeing is protected and information obtained is as reliable as possible.”
Police emphasised that being contacted as part of the investigation did not mean any particular child had been harmed.
The investigation has involved extensive engagement with schools, providers and community organisations, which McNaughton said had been co-operative and supportive of police inquiries.
Police are continuing to assess information as it is received and are asking anyone with information they believe may be relevant to contact police by calling 105 or making a report online, quoting file number 260919/1953.
Anyone requiring support can contact Oranga Tamariki on 0508 326 459 or Victim Support on 0800 842 846.