The Road to Hell

A harrowing account of state violence against children in New Zealand's postwar era.
From the 1950s to the 1980s, the New Zealand government took over 100,000 children from troubled homes and placed them in state care. Institutions like Epuni and Kingslea became sites of abuse, neglect, and social isolation. Elizabeth Stanley tells the stories of 105 individuals who experienced this system, drawing on extensive records and interviews.

Road to Hell exposes the brutal realities faced by these children: violence, punishment, and the long-term consequences of state-led harm. It's a powerful call for redress and change. This is for academics, social workers, and anyone seeking to understand the dark side of New Zealand's social history.
Understand the systemic failures of the child welfare system.Recognize the long-term impact of institutional abuse.Advocate for change and prevent future harm.