Violent Crime Drops for First Time Since 2018 as Government's Tough-on-Crime Approach Takes Effect

Aggravated robberies saw an eight per cent drop, a change attributed to increased police visibility and the Government’s crime-focused policies.

Violent crime in New Zealand has decreased for the first time since 2018, reflecting the Government's commitment to restoring law and order, Police Minister Mark Mitchell and Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith announced today.

Newly released police data shows a two per cent drop in violent crime for 2024. This marks a significant shift, following a 51 per cent increase in violent crime between 2018 and 2023.

"After years of rising violent crime, it is encouraging to see a reversal of this trend. This drop coincides with New Zealand's prison population reaching its highest level since 2018, along with other key police statistics indicating crime reduction," said Mr. Mitchell.

Overall victimisation has also declined by two per cent, with both general assaults and serious assaults down by one per cent. Aggravated robberies saw an eight per cent drop, a change attributed to increased police visibility and the Government's crime-focused policies.

"We have moved away from the previous soft-on-crime approach and are seeing early signs that our policies are working. The insignia ban and new police powers are proving effective in cracking down on gangs, particularly in cases involving drugs and firearms," Mr. Mitchell added.

Retail theft remains a concern, rising by 11 per cent. However, the Government notes that the violent element of these crimes has stabilized, bringing some relief to small business owners.

Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith highlighted further positive developments from the latest New Zealand Crime and Victims Survey, which recorded 24,000 fewer victims in the year ending October 2024 compared to June 2024.

"These results are promising, though we anticipate some fluctuations in the data before a sustained downward trend in crime emerges. Our long-term goal remains clear: 20,000 fewer victims of serious violent crime by 2029," said Mr. Goldsmith.

The Government remains committed to increasing police presence, expanding crime prevention initiatives, and enforcing stricter consequences for offenders as part of its strategy to improve public safety across New Zealand.