UPDATED 4.52pm: Gloriavale's secretive community is laying low, as police issue a formal request for any ex-members of the commune to come forward.

Ex-members have come forward with claims of brainwashing and sexual abuse at the compound.

Commune member Fervent Stedfast told Newstalk ZB it isn't the community's role to fight or debate anything, and anyone who wants to leave can do so if they want.

A request for further comment was refused.

Police are yet to determine whether they'll take any action, however they have indicated an investigation into the Gloriavale community could be on the cards

District Commander Superintendent Karyn Malthus says police are yet to determine whether they'll take any action in light of issues raised in the media.

She says anyone considering coming forward can be reassured they'll be dealt with professionally, by staff trained to deal with sensitive issues.