By Laura Frykberg
The number of sexual assaults is still on the increase according to statistics released by the police this week.
Since 2009 the numbers have continued to grow, leading to more and more women learning to protect themselves.
Once a week, in a Wellington gym, a group of women of all ages and ability, practice basic moves to defend themselves from attac.
Hinano Sefesi began the self defence class after a morning run turned into a threatening situation.
“I passed this guy and I though 'he's a bit weird', and I didn't think more of it, and then a few moments later, I heard really heavy footsteps, and I turned around and he was chasing me, and where I lived there weren't many street lights, and I just had to outrun him,” says Ms Sefesi.
But others in menacing circumstances have been less fortunate the numbers have been steadily increasing.
Between July last year and June this year there were more than 3400 reported sexual assaults and related offences. The previous year there were more than 3200, and the year before that just under of 3000.
Research also suggests a large proportion aren't reported because victims know their attacker.
Labour's police spokesman says the statistics are a concern.
“Sexual assaults going up by 15 percent over two year should be a concern for all New Zealanders, especially when women and children are usually the victims of that,” says Kris Faafoi.
While most women who attend the class haven't been attacked, instructor Maren Frerichs says it doesn't hurt to be prepared.
“Most attacks on women are going to be taken to the ground, in fact most fights at some situation are taken to the ground, so it's really valuable to know what to do on the ground and how to defend yourself,” says trainer Maren Frerich.
And one quick visit isn't enough - it definitely takes lots of practice and training.
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