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New Zealand's Controversial Move to Criminalize Homelessness

2/24/2026

34 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

New Zealand expands police powers to issue move-on orders to people aged 14+ who beg or sleep rough.
Fines reach up to $2,000 or up to three months in jail.
Critics including the Salvation Army and Green Party co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick warn the measure harms vulnerable people.
Labour's Carmel Sepuloni says the government disregards evidence and risks harming those in need.

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Story summary

New Zealand expands police powers to issue move-on orders to people aged 14+ who beg or sleep rough.
Fines reach up to $2,000 or up to three months in jail.
Critics including the Salvation Army and Green Party co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick warn the measure harms vulnerable people.
Labour's Carmel Sepuloni says the government disregards evidence and risks harming those in need.