Police across New Zealand are set to enforce new anti-gang laws coming into effect at midnight, giving them greater powers to target gang-related crime and intimidation.

Assistant Commissioner Paul Basham said officers would be actively monitoring and responding to breaches of the Gangs Act 2024, which bans public displays of gang patches, signs, or symbols.

“If you wear a gang patch in public, or display a sign or symbol associated with a gang, you can expect the attention of Police, either at the time of the offence, or at a time that suits us,” Basham said.

In preparation for the law’s introduction, Police have launched Operation Nickel, a nationally coordinated plan to equip officers with the tools and training to enforce the new rules. Basham said the operation would ensure officers are ready to respond to breaches and take action as required.

“There will be no excuses. Anyone found in breach of the law can expect the certainty that Police will take action,” he said.

Basham acknowledged that Police would still prioritise urgent calls for service, meaning immediate responses to breaches may not always be possible. However, officers will gather evidence to enforce the law later if necessary.

Dedicated Gang Disruption Units have also been established to target offenders and follow up on reported breaches. These teams will gather evidence for search warrants and arrests to recover gang patches or insignia and address violations.

“Our message is simple — Parliament has passed a law, it’s our job to enforce the law, and we will be enforcing it,” Basham said.

Police staff across the country have completed training to ensure they fully understand the new legislation and how to enforce it effectively. The laws are expected to play a significant role in addressing gang-related activity nationwide.