Women's Refuge centres around New Zealand are being kept busy helping women fleeing from domestic abuse at Christmas.
Spokesperson Sarah Pomeroy says most centres are busier than normal for this time of year and there have been a lot of police referrals in the lead-up to Christmas.
She says there are still beds available in safe houses, but many are full.
The centres are expecting to be even busier leading up to the New Year, Ms Pomeroy says, as many women wait until Christmas is over before seeking help.
Women's Refuge in the Far North says agencies that deal with child abuse in the region are understaffed.
