NZ Advances Move-On Order Law to Tackle Disorder in City Centres

“Our government is committed to fixing the basics in law and order, and building a future where everyone feels safe to visit, work and live in our central cities,” Goldsmith said.

New Zealand's government has moved forward with controversial legislation aimed at giving Police greater powers to address disorderly behaviour in public spaces, as the proposed law passed its first reading in Parliament. Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith said the legislation is part of the government's broader effort to restore safety and public confidence in city centres and tourist areas across the country.

The proposed measures would allow Police to issue "move-on orders" to individuals engaging in disruptive or intimidating behaviour in public places, including rough sleeping and begging. Supporters say the law is needed to reclaim urban spaces from disorder and improve safety for residents, businesses and visitors, while critics are likely to raise concerns over civil liberties and the treatment of vulnerable populations.

Government Says Public Disorder Has Increased in Recent Years

Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith argued that New Zealand's town centres and urban streets have experienced growing levels of disruption in recent years, affecting businesses, residents and tourism.

"Our government is committed to fixing the basics in law and order, and building a future where everyone feels safe to visit, work and live in our central cities," Goldsmith said.

According to the Minister, many city centres have become increasingly associated with intimidation, anti-social behaviour and public disorder, leading some people to avoid them altogether.

"Our streets and town centres have endured unprecedented levels of disruption in recent years. Many people no longer want to be there. Businesses, residents and visitors are paying the price," he stated.

Goldsmith said business owners have repeatedly expressed frustration over individuals camping outside stores or engaging in disruptive conduct that affects daily operations and public confidence.

Police to Receive Expanded Powers Under Proposed Law

Under the proposed legislation, Police would gain authority to issue move-on orders to people displaying a range of behaviours considered disruptive or disorderly in public places.

The law would apply to individuals who are:

• Displaying disorderly, disruptive, threatening or intimidating behaviour.

• Obstructing or impeding access to businesses.

• Breaching the peace.

• Engaging in all forms of begging.

• Rough sleeping.

• Behaving in ways indicating an intention to inhabit a public place.

Police officers would be able to order individuals to leave a specified area for up to 24 hours and move a reasonable distance away from the location.

The move-on orders would apply to individuals aged 14 years or older and could be issued either in writing or electronically, depending on operational requirements.

Government Rejects Claims of Criminalising Homelessness

The legislation has already sparked debate, particularly over concerns that it could disproportionately target homeless individuals and vulnerable people living in public spaces.

Goldsmith rejected accusations that the government intends to criminalise homelessness.

"There has been much said about this legislation, so let me set the record straight, the Government has no policy to criminalise homelessness," he said.

The Minister stressed that move-on orders themselves would not constitute criminal charges. Instead, only individuals who refuse to comply with Police instructions could face prosecution.

"What we do have, is a policy to give Police the power to issue move-on orders to people displaying disorderly behaviour in public places," he explained.

Goldsmith argued that current laws provide authorities with limited ability to intervene before situations escalate into more serious incidents.

"It means many disruptive, distressing, and potentially harmful acts can occur before police officers have any means of intervention. This legislation changes that," he said.

Debate Likely Over Civil Liberties and Social Impact

The legislation is expected to face scrutiny from civil rights advocates, homelessness organizations and opposition parties concerned about how the powers may be applied in practice.

Critics may argue that rough sleeping and begging are often linked to poverty, mental health issues, housing shortages and social inequality rather than criminal intent. There are likely to be concerns that move-on powers could simply displace vulnerable people without addressing the underlying causes of homelessness.

Human rights groups internationally have frequently warned against policies that restrict public presence or criminalize survival behaviours associated with homelessness.

Supporters of the law, however, argue that public spaces should remain safe, accessible and welcoming for everyone, particularly in major commercial and tourism areas.

Businesses and Tourism Areas Central to Government's Argument

The government has strongly linked the proposed law to protecting city centre businesses and improving public perceptions of urban areas.

Goldsmith said many New Zealanders and business owners support move-on orders because they are increasingly concerned about intimidation and dysfunction in public spaces.

"This is about reclaiming our streets and our city centres for the enjoyment of everybody," he said.

The government has also emphasized the importance of maintaining clean, safe and attractive public areas in key tourism destinations, particularly as New Zealand seeks to strengthen economic recovery and visitor confidence.

Existing Welfare Support Highlighted by Government

The Justice Minister argued that New Zealand already provides extensive welfare support and social assistance for people in need.

"We currently have many tools to help those who are in need, including access to one of the most generous welfare systems in the world," Goldsmith stated.

However, he said authorities currently lack effective tools to deal with disruptive public behaviour before it escalates into criminal activity or public safety concerns.

The government's position suggests the legislation is intended to complement existing social support systems rather than replace them.

Move-On Orders Used Internationally in Various Forms

Move-on powers are already used in different forms in several countries, including Australia and parts of the United Kingdom, where Police can order individuals to leave certain areas if they are causing public disorder or anti-social behaviour.

Such powers have often generated controversy, particularly regarding their use against young people, protesters, homeless individuals and marginalized communities.

Legal experts say the implementation details, oversight mechanisms and safeguards included in the legislation will likely become key points of debate as the bill progresses through Parliament.

Legislation Still Faces Further Parliamentary Stages

Having passed its first reading, the legislation will now proceed through additional parliamentary stages, including committee review, public submissions and further debate before any final vote.

The process is expected to attract significant public attention as lawmakers, advocacy groups, businesses and local communities weigh the balance between public safety, individual rights and social welfare responsibilities.

As New Zealand continues grappling with rising urban pressures, homelessness concerns and public safety debates, the proposed move-on order law is likely to remain a major topic in national political discussions.