Proposed new orders could see unruly people ordered out of central cities for 24 hours

Thursday, 21 May 2026

Disruptive people, rough sleepers, and beggars could be ordered to leave public areas for up to 24 hours under proposed new Police powers. (file photo)

Legislation which provides Police with the power to issue move-on orders as a tool to deal with disorderly behaviour in public places has passed its first reading in Parliament.

The bill aims to give Police the authority to order disruptive individuals out of central cities and public spaces.

Under the proposed law, anyone who refuses to follow a move-on order could face prosecution.

Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith said the legislation was designed to address unprecedented levels of disruption in streets and town centres, which had left many people unwilling to visit central cities.

“Businesses, residents and visitors are paying the price,” Goldsmith said.

“Many are just trying to make a living, but have to face disruptive people camped outside their store, day in day out.”

Goldsmith stated that the Government had limited tools to handle disorderly conduct, meaning distressing or potentially harmful acts often occurred before officers could intervene.

However, he rejected claims that the bill targeted vulnerable populations, stating that the Government had no policy to criminalise homelessness.

“A move-on order is not a criminal charge,” Goldsmith said. “Only people who refuse those orders, will face prosecution.”

Under the legislation, Police would be able to issue orders to individuals displaying disorderly, disruptive, threatening, or intimidating behaviour, as well as those obstructing people from entering businesses or breaching the peace.

The power would also extend to all forms of begging, rough sleeping, and behaviour that indicates an intent to inhabit a public place.

The orders would apply to people aged 14 or older and could require an individual to leave a specified area for up to 24 hours, or move on a reasonable distance specified by a constable.

Depending on operational appropriateness, the orders would be issued electronically or in writing.

Goldsmith said that while New Zealanders sought to help those in need, they should not have to accept city centres and showcase tourist spots becoming places of intimidation and dysfunction.

The bill will now be referred to a select committee for public submissions and further consideration.