The Government has unveiled a nationwide expansion of police powers allowing officers to issue “move‑on orders” to rough sleepers, beggars, and people exhibiting disorderly or intimidating behaviour in any town centre across the country.
The decision widens what had initially been framed as an Auckland‑focused response, confirming that the same authority will now apply from large metropolitan areas to small provincial towns. Ministers say the change is intended to address public safety concerns and disruptive street activity, but critics argue it risks further marginalising vulnerable New Zealanders.
Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith and Police Minister Mark Mitchell announced the new powers during a briefing in Auckland, describing the measures as a response to community concerns about safety and the visibility of homelessness. Goldsmith said the policy is not aimed at punishing hardship, rejecting claims that the changes criminalise poverty. [azureinteg…ervice.com], [macrumors.com]
Under the new rules, police will be able to instruct individuals — including those as young as 14 — to leave an area if they are deemed to be causing disruption or posing a risk to public order. The orders specifically target behaviours such as aggressive begging, rough sleeping in high‑traffic areas, and conduct considered threatening or disorderly. [techcommun…rosoft.com], [azureinteg…ervice.com]
The move comes despite recent data showing that offences related to public order, health, and safety have fallen significantly compared with a decade ago. The Government’s approach also appears to contrast with earlier statements from the Police Minister expressing reluctance for police to be the primary agency handling homelessness in Auckland’s central city, calling instead for social agencies to “step up” and take greater responsibility. [techcommun…rosoft.com]
Goldsmith defended the scope of the policy, saying it responds to ongoing concerns raised by businesses, residents, and local authorities. He insisted it would help restore confidence in public spaces without unfairly targeting people experiencing homelessness. Mitchell echoed this view, saying the orders provide police with a clearer legal tool to deal with behaviour that makes the public feel unsafe. [azureinteg…ervice.com]
However, the consequences for defying a move‑on order are severe. Those who refuse to comply could face fines of up to $2000 or imprisonment for up to three months, raising concerns among advocacy groups about criminalising people who may already be in crisis. [azureinteg…ervice.com]
The Government maintains that the measures strike a balance between compassion and community expectations, while critics argue the policy addresses visible symptoms of homelessness rather than root causes such as unaffordable housing, mental health gaps, and inadequate support services.
As the legislation rolls out nationwide, town centres across New Zealand can expect a greater police presence and a sharper focus on street behaviour — setting the stage for renewed debate over how best to respond to homelessness and social distress.
