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STOP Strategy - combatting Graffiti Vandalism

Crime prevention - Graffiti vandalism

Graffiti vandalism is the intentional unlawful defacing of property with writing, markings or graphics. Tagging, a form of graffiti vandalism, is the writing of a stylised signature on a wall or other property and is the most common form of graffiti vandalism in New Zealand.

On 15 February 2008, the Prime Minister, Rt Hon Helen Clark, announced the development of the STOP (Stop Tagging Our Place) strategy, a nationwide approach designed to combat graffiti vandalism in New Zealand. The strategy includes a range of initiatives to address graffiti vandalism.

The strategy was launched on 4 September 2008. The Ministry of Justice's Crime Prevention Unit has produced the following information material for retailers, retail staff, local government agencies and the public. This material explains the aspects of the strategy, and responsibilities under the law for retailers, local government agencies and consumers.

Legislation

How to STOP Graffiti Guide

The How to STOP Graffiti Guide is a practical resource for territorial authorities, schools, businesses and private residents. It outlines the practical steps that can be taken to prevent and manage graffiti vandalism within communities and includes guidelines on best practice. The Guide can be downloaded below:

STOP Graffiti Guide (PDF, 2.25Mb)

Below are links to the legislation related to graffiti offences as provided by the Summary Offences (Tagging and Graffiti Vandalism) Amendment Act 2008 and enacted in the Summary Offences Act 1981 - sections 11,11A, 11B, 14A and 14B. Section 14B comes into force on 26 September 2008. The Crimes Act 1961 also contains one graffiti-related offence - section 269(2):

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