Centrepoint (commune)

Centrepoint was a New Zealand commune and community, founded in 1977 by Bert Potter near Albany, Auckland. It operated under the principles of alternative living, self-sufficiency, and communal childcare. However, it became notorious and ultimately collapsed due to widespread allegations and subsequent convictions for sexual abuse and drug-related offenses involving Potter and other members.

The commune initially attracted a diverse group of individuals seeking an alternative lifestyle, with a focus on personal growth and rejecting mainstream values. It emphasized a holistic approach to living, including organic farming, natural therapies, and alternative education for the children within the community.

Over time, concerns grew regarding Potter's leadership and the practices within Centrepoint. Allegations of sexual abuse, particularly of children, surfaced, leading to a major police investigation. In 1992, Potter was convicted on multiple charges of indecent assault and drug-related offenses. Other members of the community were also convicted on similar charges.

Following the convictions, Centrepoint was disbanded and its land was sold. The experiences of those who lived at Centrepoint have been the subject of documentaries, books, and ongoing discussions about the dangers of cult-like environments and the importance of safeguarding vulnerable individuals, particularly children. The legacy of Centrepoint remains a cautionary tale about the potential for abuse within communities that operate outside of societal norms and legal frameworks.