Criminal lawyers have flagged serious concerns with planned citizens' arrest powers and new laws specifically targeting the so-called coward punch, and assaults on first responders. The Crimes Amendment Bill is currently before Select Committee.
The Criminal Law Committee, a part of the Law Association, has written to parliament explaining while lawyers favour the intent of the changes - they have concerns about how the legislation will actually work in practice, and if they will comply with the Bill of Rights Act. Julie-Anne Kincade KC is the Vice-President of The Law Association and Convenor of the Criminal Law Committee.
Protesters gathered outside the New Plymouth Court for the sentencing of Daytona Thompson in October 2025 for the manslaughter of Daniel Nganeko who died following a one-punch attack. Photo: RNZ / Robin Martin
