Media Release: Move-On Orders Amendment Bill, Sept 4th 2026
Media Release: The Wellington City Mission is deeply concerned by reports of Move-on Orders Bill proceeding without changes to rough sleeping provisions
The Wellington City Mission is disappointed and deeply concerned by reports that the Move-on Orders Amendment Bill will proceed to Parliament, without changes to rough sleeping provisions.
The Bill, first introduced in May 2026, includes the application of law that would allow Police to issue Move-on Orders in response to rough sleeping (Sections [8A[1] [f]).
The Wellington City Mission, along with many others, urged the Justice Select Committee to recommend the removal of these provisions. Together, we warned that these provisions risk treating homelessness and poverty as matters of public disorder, rather than circumstances requiring an effective social response.
The Wellington City Mission urges all political parties and members of parliament to consider their position on this legislation, and the implications of making homelessness a reason for police intervention.
We acknowledge and agree with recent comments by ACT leader & Deputy Prime Minister David Seymour, who highlighted the importance for the Bill to focus on disruptive behaviours.
The Wellington City Mission has supported the Bill’s stated objective of responding to genuinely disruptive, disorderly or harmful behaviour and ensuring that public spaces are safe, accessible and welcoming for everyone.
The Mission however remains deeply concerned by reports that the Select Committee Report is not recommending removal of Sections [8A[1] [f], which gives police the power to move on individuals for sleeping rough. The legislation fails to make a clear distinction between a person’s circumstances and conduct that is genuinely disorderly, disruptive or harmful.
The Wellington City Mission works alongside people experiencing homelessness in our community every day. The organisation is committed to looking at effective social responses to rough sleeping.
The Wellington City Mission will continue to engage constructively with Government and other agencies on measures that improve public safety while ensuring people experiencing homelessness are supported and protected.
For any media enquiries, contact Joe Horsman (joe@wcm.org.nz)