New Zealand police will soon have increased powers to issue move-on orders for disruptive behavior in public spaces, including begging and rough sleeping. The government announced amendments to the Summary Offences Act aimed at addressing concerns about intimidation and dysfunction in city centers and tourist areas.
New Powers for Police
Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith stated that while New Zealanders are generally helpful, city centers shouldn’t become places of “intimidation and dysfunction.” He emphasized the need to address declining businesses impacted by unchecked bad behavior.
The amended legislation will allow police to issue move-on orders to individuals who are:
- Displaying disorderly, disruptive, threatening, or intimidating behavior
- Obstructing someone entering a business
- Breaching the peace
- Begging, in any form
- Rough sleeping
- Displaying behavior indicating an intent to inhabit a public place
Officers issuing these orders will be required to warn individuals that breaching the order is an offense, unless a reasonable excuse for remaining exists. Repeated behavior in different locations will result in further move-on orders, according to Goldsmith.
Police Minister Mark Mitchell supported the increased powers, stating that current limitations hinder police response to disruptive acts that don’t rise to the level of a criminal offense. He believes the changes are a step towards “fixing the basics in law and order.”
Auckland Business Chamber Welcomes Changes
The Auckland Business Chamber has praised the move as a “sensible and necessary step to strengthen safety in the city centre.” Chief Executive Simon Bridges stated the change fills a gap in existing enforcement tools.
Bridges emphasized the importance of a safe and welcoming city center for businesses, staff, and visitors. He noted that the new powers will allow police to intervene earlier in situations before they escalate, protecting the public and safeguarding Auckland’s reputation.
The amendments to the Summary Offences Act will now proceed through the legislative process before taking effect.
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