Petition request

That the House of Representatives amend New Zealand’s criminal laws to ensure that any person (regardless of age, ethnicity or economic status) convicted of a crime that resulted in the death of a person under the age of 18 receives a full life sentence.

Petition reason

I believe sentences handed down for crimes resulting in the death of a youth do not reflect the true gravity of the offence. In my opinion, the taking of a child’s life should result in a life behind bars for the offender regardless of age, ethnicity or economic status.

Petition progress

  • Open for signatures
  • Closed for signatures
  • Select Committee
  • Reported
  • Referred to Minister
Number of signatures: 9513
Date presented: 24 Feb 2026
Considered by: Petitions
Presenting member: Katie Nimon
Closing date: 20 Feb 2026