Police can now move on rough sleepers — even without disorderly behaviour
October 25, 2026
Summarised by Centrist
Police gained new powers on Sunday to order rough sleepers, beggars and people behaving in a disorderly manner to leave public places for up to 24 hours.
Under the new law, rough sleeping alone can justify a move-on order, even without threatening or disruptive behaviour. Breaching an order can result in up to three months' imprisonment or a $1,000 fine.
The powers apply to adults aged 18 and over and cover disorderly or intimidating conduct, obstruction of businesses, unreasonable begging and rough sleeping.
Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith insists the legislation does not criminalise homelessness.
"They simply provide police with an additional tool to deal with people displaying disorderly behaviour in public places," he said.
However, the law explicitly includes rough sleeping as a separate ground for issuing an order.
Sunday Blessings co-founder Danielle LeGallais warned that homeless people may struggle to understand the rules, including how far they must move, for how long and what rights they have when questioned or detained.
Retail NZ chief executive Carolyn Young supported action against threatening behaviour outside businesses but questioned whether moving people elsewhere would change their behaviour.
Police say officers will initially seek voluntary compliance and may refer people to support services. Those moved on for rough sleeping or unreasonable begging can return for lawful purposes, such as obtaining food or medical assistance.
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