Police and Oranga Tamariki are investigating a community-based tutor who provided tuition at several schools and community organisations in Waikato and Bay of Plenty.
"As part of these enquiries, Police and Oranga Tamariki have been working with schools and the Ministry of Education to identify children who may have had contact with the tutor, and to engage with their families," Detective Inspector Kevin McNaughton said.
Investigators from both agencies have been meeting with affected families to explain the investigative process.
"Our focus is on ensuring that enquiries are conducted thoroughly, professionally and with the wellbeing of children at the centre of the process."
McNaughton told RNZ police were in the early stages of determining whether criminal activity had occurred after receiving a report from a school about the tutor. He said five to six schools had engaged with the tutor.
No charges had been laid, but police would investigate should they find evidence of criminal activity, McNaughton said.
Parents and caregivers were asked not to question their children about the matter, or undertake their own enquiries.
"We appreciate that parents naturally want answers and reassurance. However, conversations of this nature are best undertaken by trained professionals to ensure children's wellbeing is protected and information obtained is as reliable as possible," McNaughton said.
"Police emphasise that being contacted as part of the investigation does not mean that any particular child has been harmed."
McNaughton said the investigation had followed "extensive engagement" with schools, providers, and community organisations.
"All of which have been cooperative and supportive of police enquiries.
"Police are continuing to assess information as it is received and encourage anyone with information they believe may be relevant to contact police by calling 105, or via 105 online."
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