O for Ombudsman
The word “Ombudsman” comes from Sweden. It means ‘grievance person’. Grievance is another word for complaint.
Ombudsman was the name given to us when our office was set up in 1962. We also have another name gifted to us by the Māori Language Commission – Kaitiaki Mana Tangata. In English, this means ‘guardian of the mana of the people’.
Our job is to make sure government agencies make good decisions for New Zealanders. This also includes groups and organisations that do work for the government. The Ombudsman is separate and independent from the government.
If you think a decision isn’t fair, you can talk to us.
What does the Ombudsman do?
We take complaints about decisions government agencies like Oranga Tamariki make. This includes groups and organisations that do work for Oranga Tamariki.
You can find information about the complaint process on our website.
What else does the Ombudsman do?
The Ombudsman does lots of other things. You can read about these on our main website:
Tell your story
Want to talk about what’s happening to you?
Are you worried
about your safety,
or the safety of someone else?
Freephone:
Oranga Tamariki on 0508 326 459
The Police on 111