He Ture Hou · New Law · 26 May 2026
Stalking is now a crime.
Here's what that means for you.
For the first time in Aotearoa, stalking is its own criminal offence — and the law recognises the many ways it happens, including online, through whānau, and through technology.
Published June 2026 · Source: Ministry of Justice Aotearoa
Wāhine know this pattern. The unwanted messages that keep coming. The person who seems to always be nearby. The feeling that you're being watched. Now the law has a name for it — and consequences for those who do it.
What changed on 26 May 2026
The Crimes Legislation (Stalking and Harassment) Amendment Act 2025 came into force on 26 May 2026. For the first time, stalking is a standalone criminal offence in Aotearoa — separate from harassment, with its own definition and its own consequences.
The maximum penalty is five years' imprisonment. Conviction also carries an automatic removal of any firearms or private security licence, and courts can issue a firearms prohibition order.
Importantly, the law applies regardless of the relationship — partner, ex-partner, acquaintance, or stranger. Anyone can be a stalker. And while anyone can be a victim, the law explicitly recognises that women are disproportionately affected.
The law uses the term "specified acts" — a pattern of two or more of these behaviours within two years, where the person knows they are causing fear or distress.
Watching, following, loitering near, or obstructing the victim
Recording, tracking, contacting or communicating with the victim
Publishing material about the victim online — including false information
Using technology to track — including devices, apps, spyware, drones, or AI
Damaging or interfering with the victim's property, taonga, or pets
Using other people or organisations to intimidate or continue contact
Damaging the victim's reputation, opportunities, or relationships
Any act that would cause fear or distress to a reasonable person
If you need Police but cannot speak for fear of harm, press keys when asked — Police will still respond.
Police can act after a single incident. They can issue a stalking and harassment notice to the person causing harm before it escalates to a charge.
A written diary, screenshots, photos, messages, or objects left by the stalker. Store evidence somewhere the person causing harm cannot access — or give it straight to Police.
You don't have to figure this out alone. Organisations like Women's Refuge, Shine, and Victim Support can help you understand your options before you decide what to do next.
What Police can do
- Issue a stalking and harassment notice after a single incident — a formal warning that puts the behaviour on record
- Charge the person with stalking and harassment if there are two or more incidents within two years
- Issue a police safety order if there is risk of family violence — requiring the person to leave the home for up to ten days
- At sentencing, courts can also issue restraining orders, harmful digital communication orders, disposal orders for images or videos, and firearms prohibition orders
Download these resources directly from the Ministry of Justice.
Tautoko — Help and support
All services below are free. Many are available 24/7. You don't have to be in crisis to reach out.
Community Law Centres and Citizens Advice Bureau offer free legal information across Aotearoa. Visit communitylaw.org.nz or cab.org.nz. To find a lawyer: lawsociety.org.nz