Tauranga Women's Refuge are calling on the community to help them kit out a second safe house.

They have secured a four bedroom property and are in need of three new double beds, three sets of single bunks, a lounge suite, dining suite, fridge freezer and washing machine.

Refuge manager Hazel Hape says it will be a place for families to grieve, heal and plan for the future.

'We want it to be part of a fresh start for them.”

She says it's a new property which they're 'pretty stoked about.”

They've only ever had one safe house but she says they have to ‘get real'.

She says domestic violence is on the increase thanks to Covid, the housing crisis, unemployment, and an increase in population.

'It's putting pressure on what would otherwise be healthy relationships.”

In worst cases this descends into domestic violence.

She says she wants families to feel amazing when they arrive, so that they can feel safe.

Hazel says they are very grateful for donations already made.

If people have any of the above items to donate, they can call Hazel on 07-541-1910.