Integrating domestic violence services will be difficult, but is necessary.

That's the message from the charity Shine, following findings in the Government's Family Violence Death Review Report which suggested the need for integration.

Client Services Director Jill Proudfoot said making the changes will be hugely difficult.

"I think to change there's got to be disruption and the disruption may be very difficult while it happens but the end result would make it worth the effort I think."

The Family Violence Death Review Report says 312 people have died in New Zealand over ten years.

Women's Refuges Chief Executive Dr Ang Jury isn't surprised to learn how high the death rate is from family violence.

She said this shows the severity of the issue, but that these figures only represent the tip of the iceberg.