New Zealand has officially made stalking a criminal offense. Previously, stalking was handled through other laws, including harassment, intimidation, trespassing, family violence and harmful digital communications. Advocates said this approach often failed to recognize stalking as a repeated pattern of behaviour. The new law came into effect on May 26.
The change follows the case of Farzana Yakubi, a 21-year-old Muslim law student who reported being stalked by Khanwapol Singh multiple times in 2022. She shared evidence with police, including messages in which he threatened to throw acid in her face.
In December, Yakubi warned that the situation had escalated and that she feared for her life. Her complaint was still awaiting investigation when Singh killed her on December 19, 2022. A police watchdog later found the response to her reports was inadequate.
Under the new law, stalking is now defined as a pattern of behaviour that happens at least twice within a two-year period and is likely to cause fear or distress.
The law covers behaviours such as following someone, watching them, tracking them, repeated unwanted contact, doxing, online impersonation and interfering with their property or pets. Police can also formally warn people whose behaviour may amount to stalking if it continues.
People convicted of stalking can now face up to five years in prison. The reform followed widespread public pressure after Yakubi’s death, including a petition signed by more than 20,000 people.
