Government Introduces Tougher Penalties for Violence, Trafficking and Retail Crime

Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith says the bill reflects the Government’s commitment to “fixing the basics in law and order” and ensuring that victims—not offenders—remain at the heart of the justice system.

The Government has unveiled the Crimes Amendment Bill, a major package of law-and-order reforms aimed at delivering tougher consequences for violence against frontline workers, coward punches, human trafficking, and escalating retail crime. Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith says the bill reflects the Government’s commitment to “fixing the basics in law and order” and ensuring that victims—not offenders—remain at the heart of the justice system.

Goldsmith emphasised that police officers, paramedics, firefighters and Corrections staff face life-threatening risks every day. “Where others may flee, first responders and prison officers run towards danger to help those who need urgent assistance. Assaulting them puts multiple lives at risk, so there must be greater consequences for these heinous acts of violence.”

Stronger Penalties for First Responder Assaults

For the first time, New Zealand law will include specific offences for assaults on first responders and prison officers. These offences will allow courts to impose higher penalties that reflect the seriousness of attacks on people whose roles are critical to public safety. The measure follows growing reports of violent assaults on ambos, police, and custodial staff, often resulting in injury and long-term trauma.

Crackdown on Coward Punches

The Bill introduces two new coward-punch offences aimed at tackling sudden, unprovoked attacks that frequently cause catastrophic harm. Goldsmith says perpetrators too often escape with sentences that fail to reflect the scale of damage inflicted. Under the new regime, courts will be empowered to issue significantly tougher penalties, ensuring accountability for assaults that can result in severe brain injuries or death.

Tackling Retail Crime and Supporting Shop Owners

Retail crime has surged across the country, burdening small businesses and leaving many feeling vulnerable. The Bill establishes a new shoplifting infringement regime, designed to give police and retailers more tools to respond swiftly and consistently to theft. Business owners have long complained of offenders “walking out with whatever they please”, and the Government says the new framework will help curb that behaviour and restore confidence for shopkeepers.

Expanded Citizen’s Arrest Powers

Alongside these measures, the legislation expands citizen’s arrest powers, enabling members of the public to intervene more effectively when a crime is occurring—while still ensuring safeguards against misuse. The Government says the change aims to strengthen community resilience and reduce impunity for offenders.

Stronger Human Trafficking and Smuggling Laws

The Bill also strengthens trafficking and people-smuggling laws to close loopholes that have allowed offenders to evade serious consequences. The Government says criminal groups have become increasingly sophisticated, and enhanced legal tools are necessary to combat exploitation and cross-border criminal networks.

Goldsmith reiterated the Government’s pledge to introduce the reforms before the end of the year. “We promised to have this introduced before the end of the year, and now we’re delivering. We aim to have this passed into law before the next election.”

The Crimes Amendment Bill will now progress through the parliamentary process, where it is expected to attract extensive public and sector feedback, particularly from justice advocates, retail groups, and first responder organisations who have long called for stronger protections.