The Chair of the Justice Committee is calling for public submissions on the Summary Offences (Demonstrations Near Residential Premises) Amendment Bill. At present, the law does not provide a clear statement about the relevance of privacy in the context of protests and other demonstrations. Article 17 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights affirms the right to be free from arbitrary or unlawful interference with one’s privacy, family and home.

Protests and other demonstrations that are targeted at individuals in their residential premises can disturb their privacy and the use and enjoyment of their home. They can also create an environment of fear and intimidation and deter elected officials from taking stands on contentious issues. The bill would amend the Summary Offences Act 1981 to create a new offence for engaging in a targeted and disruptive demonstration near residential premises. It aims to ensure that the law appropriately balances a person’s right to privacy with the rights and freedoms affirmed by the New Zealand Bill of Rights Act 1990. This includes protecting the public’s ability to protest.

Tell the Justice Committee what you think

Make a submission on the bill by 2.00pm on Monday, 6 October 2025.

For more details about the bill:

· Read the full content of the bill

· Get more details about the bill

· What’s been said in Parliament about the bill?

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