‘Vicious, sinister, deadly’: Stalking law passes with up to five-year jail term
Legislation, which creates a new offence for stalking and harassment, passed its third reading in Parliament last night.
The minister behind the bill, Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith, said for too long, perpetrators had been able to emotionally, psychologically and economically harm their victims through stalking behaviour.
Stalking and harassment is defined as a pattern of behaviour which the offender knew was likely to cause the victim fear or distress.
“Stalking and harassment is vicious, sinister and can be deadly. Parliament has sent a clear message – this insidious behaviour has to stop,” Goldsmith said.
“Today is a victory for a wide range of New Zealanders.”
Women are greatly overrepresented as victims by “deluded, the sexist and the abusive”.
“Even worse, their children are frequently exploited to surveil victims, pass on threats, or even be threatened themselves,” he said.
“This victory would not be possible without the tireless advocacy and help of many people.”
More than 600 people submitted to a Parliamentary select committee on the issue with many sharing their own experiences and the impact of stalking in their lives.
A pattern of behaviour is defined as two specified acts within a two-year period.
The Crimes Legislation (Stalking and Harassment) Amendment Bill outlines a range of stalking behaviours, including:
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Watching and following another person.
Unwanted communication.
Damaging another’s reputation and relationships.
A police notice system and relevant defences are also built into the new offence.
Green Party spokesperson Tamatha Paul said the Government had agreed to pick up the party’s suggested amendment which was to ensure police informed victims before they served a notice to the perpetrator.
“Survivors and advocates told us that they were worried that when police notify the perpetrator that they are breaking the law, that the victim would not be notified and that the victim could be retaliated against,” Paul said.
“To everyone who got involved and made their voices heard, thank you.”
The bill will come into force in May 2026, six months after the legislation receives royal assent, to allow for training for police, court staff and the judiciary, and the development of information for the public.
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What's your best cost-saving tip?
Just when we thought the cost of living couldn't climb any higher...it does. While things like fuel prices are out of our control, many of us are looking for small, practical ways to stretch our dollars a bit further. So let’s put our heads together!
Over the next little while, we’ll be sharing tips to help you save money — and we’d love to hear yours too. What’s working for you right now?
Here are a few ideas to get started:
🎉 Plan ahead for the year (birthdays, events, travel) to avoid surprise costs
🪙 Check out $2 shops for everyday items like stationery, baking paper, foil, and cling wrap - often much cheaper than the supermarket
🐖 Bring back the piggy bank and save your loose change
🔨 DIY where you can - like mowing the lawn instead of paying someone
💵 Set a daily budget before heading out and stick to it (cash can help!)
🧴 Stretch household products by diluting things like shampoo or dishwashing liquid
Got a tip that’s helping you save? Share it below, the tip might make a huge difference to someone else.
Poll: Is it okay to grocery shop in your PJs?
I'm sure you've seen it while doing your weekly shop... In fact, it may have even been you.
What do you think about people heading to the supermarket in their pyjamas?
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17.1% It's fine!
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74.4% It's questionable
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8.4% Other - I'll share below
The Cost of Living: Meal Ideas 🍽️
Continuing our series on how to manage the rising cost of living, this week we’re diving into the kitchen. We want to know your "secret weapon" recipes.
Share below your go-to meals that are:
💰 Budget-friendly (won't break the bank)
🥞 Delicious and easy to whip up
🍜 Great for leftovers (dishes that stretch for several days)
Whether it’s a legendary 20-cent lentil soup or a clever way to dress up basic mince, please share your meal ideas in the comments below!
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