Youthline says shocking new figures into teenage violence and abuse come as no surprise.

Otago University research reveals 21 percent of females seeking shelter in women's refuges are aged between 15 and 19.

20 percent of females and nine percent of male secondary school students say they've been victims of unwanted sexual behaviour from someone close to them.

Youthline spokeswoman Briana Hill told Nadine Higgins New Zealand has huge challenges to face.

"We see a huge adult problem in that realm. I think that domestic violence and relationship violence and sexual violence, the numbers in New Zealand for adult relationships are similarly pretty shocking."

LISTEN ABOVE TO YOUTHLINE'S BRIANA HILL SPEAK WITH NADINE HIGGINS

Police advice for people in family violence situations

- In an emergency dial 111 and ask for the Police.

- If you or anyone you know is a victim of violence, talk to police or someone who can help.

- If you are concerned about your safety, you (or family or friends) can request information relating to the violence history of a new partner through the Family Violence Information Disclosure Scheme