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March 11, 2026
#regional: Wellington Community Leaders Urge Government to Drop Move-On Orders
Matthew Tukaki
Posted On March 11, 2026
Community leaders in Wellington are calling on the Government to abandon proposed move-on powers, warning the measures could harm vulnerable people and undermine civil liberties.
In an open letter to ministers, a coalition of local leaders, advocates and community organisations said the proposed legislation risks criminalising poverty and homelessness rather than addressing the underlying causes.
The Government has announced plans to amend the Summary Offences Act to allow police to issue move-on orders requiring individuals to leave a public space for up to 24 hours if their behaviour is considered disruptive or disorderly. The powers would apply to people aged 14 and over and breaching an order could result in fines or possible jail time.
Those behind the Wellington letter say the policy focuses on removing people from public view rather than tackling the deeper social issues that lead to homelessness, including housing shortages, mental health challenges and rising living costs.
Community advocates argue that simply moving people on from city centres will not solve the problem and may instead push vulnerable individuals further to the margins.
Public health leaders and social agencies have previously raised similar concerns, saying homelessness should be treated as a social and health issue rather than a law-and-order matter.
The letter also warns that expanded police powers could affect the rights of people to occupy and use public spaces, particularly those who already face significant barriers to housing and support services.
Supporters of the Government’s plan say the move-on powers are intended to restore safety and order in town centres where businesses and residents have reported increasing disruption and antisocial behaviour.
However, Wellington community leaders say any response to social challenges must focus on long-term solutions such as housing support, mental health services and community-based interventions.
They are urging the Government to reconsider the proposal and instead work with councils, social agencies and community groups to develop policies that address the root causes of homelessness rather than shifting the problem from one place to another.
The debate over move-on powers is continuing nationwide as Parliament considers changes to public order laws and how best to balance community safety with the protection of civil rights.
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