UPDATED 2.47PM: Solemn Marches for Moko are being held right across the country to express collective disgust at our rate of child abuse.

They've been sparked by the horrific violence which claimed the life of three-year-old Moko Rangitoheriri in Taupo.

There is outrage his killers Tania Shailer and David Haerewa, who'd been entrusted to care for him, had their murder charge downgraded to manslaughter by pleading guilty to the lesser charge.

The march at centres around the country, including Auckland, Wellington, Hamilton and Christchurch, has been spearheaded by a group of mums.

The aim is for people to be able to come together in a peaceful march to honour Moko and all other children who have suffered from abuse in New Zealand.

#MarchforMoko organiser says it's important to have a collective voice. @NewstalkZB pic.twitter.com/iVqluqqvEv

— Kelly Teed (@kellyteed) May 22, 2016

In central Auckland, Labour's justice spokesperson Jacinda Ardern addressed a large crowd at Aotea Square.

"Family violence, domestic violence and child welfare are entangled," she said. "We've got to start addressing family violence as an issue as a whole in New Zealand if we are going to protect out children."

All ages out in force at Auckland's #MarchforMoko. pic.twitter.com/kOFwP6Sp0J

— Kelly Teed (@kellyteed) May 22, 2016

A former family violence perpetrator also made an emotional plea for change. Vic Tamati was reduced to tears recounting his past in Aotea Square.

He said he was disappointed with the turn out in comparison to the RSVPs on the Facebook event - especially from men.

"Men are killing our babies and our children. Men are perpetrating the violence. Yeah, I know that women do it too, but I'm a man and I'm just speaking for men, for a want men to make a difference."

In Christchurch, hundreds of people turned out, holding signs like 'Justice for Moko', 'Protect not Neglect' and 'Stop Killing Kids'.

Massive turn out for March for Moko in Christchurch @NewstalkZB pic.twitter.com/bbgqLm1GfN

— Charlie Greenhalgh (@CharlieNewstalk) May 22, 2016

A minute of silence was held at Hagley Park to remember Moko Rangitoheriri.

Christchurch East MP Poto Williams said it's time to take a stand.

"Today, let's make a pledge to our kids that we do everything we can to keep them safe."

She said Moko brings to mind other babies who suffered in private, and died publicly.

"Moko for me has become representative of all those babies who have lost their lives at the hands of those who are charged to care for them."

Child Matters, a national charitable trust dedicated to the prevention of child abuse, said the death of Moko has really struck a chord with New Zealanders.

Spokeswoman Jane Searle said it's not always easy to tell if a child is being hurt or is at risk.

But she's strongly urging anyone who may have concerns about a child to speak up.