Concerns are mounting that proposed new move-on powers could criminalise vulnerable young people rather than address the root causes of homelessness, as public submissions open on the Summary Offences (Move-on Orders) Amendment Bill.
The proposed legislation would give Police and authorised officers greater powers to direct individuals to leave public spaces in certain circumstances. Public submissions on the bill are now being accepted, with the deadline set for 11.59pm on July 2.
Among those raising concerns is Hāpai Te Hauora, which warns the legislation could have serious consequences for rangatahi already facing housing insecurity, poverty and social exclusion.
Chief Operating Officer Jason Alexander says the proposal must be examined through a hauora lens, with particular attention paid to the realities faced by young people who have nowhere else to go.
One of the major concerns is that rangatahi as young as 14 could face fines or criminal charges for behaviours directly linked to homelessness. Critics argue the legislation risks treating homelessness as a public order issue rather than a social and housing challenge.
Advocates say many young people sleeping rough or moving between temporary accommodation are already disconnected from support services and often experience multiple barriers including family violence, mental health challenges, poverty and unstable housing.
From a public health perspective, there are fears the proposed powers could further marginalise young people by increasing contact with the justice system rather than connecting them with housing, healthcare and social support.
There are also warnings that move-on orders could push vulnerable rangatahi into more isolated and less visible locations.
Support organisations say young people often choose public spaces because they are well-lit, populated and provide a degree of safety. If moved on, they may seek shelter in abandoned buildings, remote locations or unsafe environments where risks of violence, exploitation and harm increase significantly.
Youth advocates argue visibility can be an important protective factor, allowing community members, outreach workers and support agencies to identify and assist young people in need.
The debate comes as youth homelessness remains a growing concern across Aotearoa. Service providers say many rangatahi are already falling through gaps in housing, mental health and social support systems.
Research consistently points to stable housing as one of the most effective interventions for improving long-term outcomes. Housing-first approaches, wraparound support services and culturally grounded programmes are widely regarded as more successful in reducing homelessness than punitive measures.
Hāpai Te Hauora says policies should focus on addressing the underlying drivers of homelessness rather than penalising young people for circumstances often beyond their control.
The organisation is encouraging communities, whānau, service providers and young people themselves to participate in the submission process and ensure lived experiences are reflected in the parliamentary debate.
The bill is expected to generate significant discussion over the coming weeks as Parliament considers how to balance public safety concerns with the rights, wellbeing and long-term futures of vulnerable rangatahi.
Public submissions on the Summary Offences (Move-on Orders) Amendment Bill close at 11.59pm on Thursday, July 2, 2026.
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