Immigration NZ alerted to child smuggling, families adopting more than 10 kids

Aotearoa faces serious risks in international adoptions, including child smuggling and abuse. Government briefings reveal cases of families adopting over 10 children, some as “house-slaves” or subjected to sexual assault. A key concern is the adoption of older children (often 18-25) primarily for immigration benefits, bypassing Family Court oversight. This lack of controls leaves adoptees vulnerable to exploitation, servitude, and harm, with officials warning of rising cases.