In New Zealand, the standard speed limit on most rural open roads is:

100 km/h. The default open-road speed limit is 100 km/h. Some sections of motorway are now posted at 110 km/h, and lower limits apply in towns, near schools, and on some rural roads.

In New Zealand, motorbike riders and pillion passengers must:

Wear an approved safety helmet at all times when on the road. Motorbike riders and pillion passengers must wear an approved safety helmet on the road. Riding without one is a traffic offence under the Land Transport Act 1998.

On which side of the road do you drive in New Zealand?

The left. In New Zealand you drive on the left, like in the UK, Australia, and Japan.

Which of these is a serious crime under New Zealand law?

Theft. Theft is a criminal offence under the Crimes Act 1961. It involves dishonestly taking someone else's property without their permission.

Drink-driving (driving while affected by alcohol) is:

A criminal offence in New Zealand. Drink-driving is a serious criminal offence. It can lead to fines, loss of your licence, or imprisonment.

It is illegal in New Zealand to drive a car while:

Holding and using a phone. It is against the law to use a hand-held mobile phone while driving in New Zealand. You can use a phone hands-free in some situations.

It is illegal in New Zealand to:

Hit another person without lawful reason (assault). Assault, hitting or attacking another person without lawful reason, is a criminal offence under the Crimes Act 1961.

At what age can you legally buy tobacco or vaping products in New Zealand?

18. You must be 18 or over to buy tobacco, vaping products, or smokeless tobacco in New Zealand.

Wearing a seatbelt in a car in New Zealand is:

Required by law for the driver and all passengers if a belt is fitted. The driver and all passengers must wear a seatbelt if one is fitted to the seat. The driver is responsible for making sure children under 15 are properly restrained.

Children under what age must be in an approved child restraint in a car?

7. Children under 7 must travel in an approved child restraint that is suitable for their age and size whenever they are in a car.

In New Zealand, jury service is:

A duty most people on the electoral roll can be called to do. Most adults on the electoral roll can be called for jury service. The Juries Act 1981 sets the rules for who can serve and the small list of people who are excused.

Driving while using a hand-held mobile phone in New Zealand:

Is a traffic offence with a fine and demerit points. Using a hand-held mobile phone while driving is illegal under the Land Transport Act 1998 and the road rules. It carries a fine and demerit points.

Selling alcohol to a person under 18 in New Zealand is:

An offence under the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012. The Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012 makes it an offence to sell or supply alcohol to people under 18 in licensed premises, with limited exceptions.

In New Zealand, smacking a child as discipline is:

Generally an assault under the Crimes Act, with no defence of "reasonable force" for correction. A 2007 amendment to section 59 of the Crimes Act removed the defence of reasonable force for the purpose of correction. Hitting a child for discipline is generally treated as assault.

In New Zealand, a "Protection Order" under the Family Violence Act 2018 is:

An order from a District Court judge that protects victims of family violence. A Protection Order is a court order that limits how a respondent can contact or behave towards a protected person. Breaching a Protection Order is a criminal offence.

Under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1975, controlled drugs are split into how many classes?

Three classes (Class A, B, and C). The Misuse of Drugs Act 1975 puts controlled drugs into Class A (very high risk), Class B (high risk), and Class C (moderate risk).

Under the Trespass Act 1980, a person commits an offence if they are warned to leave a property and:

They neglect or refuse to leave, or they return within two years of the warning. Under section 3 of the Trespass Act 1980, it is an offence to remain on a property after being told to leave. Returning within 2 years of a trespass warning is also an offence.

Under New Zealand law, a person can act in self-defence using:

Force that is reasonable in the circumstances as the person believes them to be. Under section 48 of the Crimes Act 1961, a person is justified in using such force as is reasonable in the circumstances as he or she believes them to be. The test combines what the person believed with what was reasonable.

In New Zealand, "bail" is:

The release of a defendant while their case is ongoing, with conditions in many cases. Bail is the release of a person charged with an offence while their case is ongoing. The Bail Act 2000 sets out when bail can be granted and what conditions can apply.

Under the Victims' Rights Act 2002, a victim of certain offences has the right to:

Provide a victim impact statement to the court before sentencing. Victims have the right to provide a victim impact statement. The judge takes the statement into account at sentencing. Victims also have rights to information and to be told about parole and release.

In New Zealand, "name suppression" in a criminal case is:

A court order that prevents some names or details being published in the news media. A court can order name suppression of a defendant or witness, usually for limited reasons such as risk of extreme hardship, safety, or to protect a victim. The Criminal Procedure Act 2011 sets the rules.

In New Zealand, "restorative justice" in criminal cases is:

A formal meeting between the offender, victim, and a trained facilitator to discuss harm. Restorative justice is a voluntary process where the offender and victim meet (with a trained facilitator) to discuss what happened and what could put things right. The judge can take the outcome into account at sentencing.

In New Zealand, "disorderly behaviour" is:

A summary offence under the Summary Offences Act 1981 covering disruptive behaviour in public. Disorderly behaviour is an offence under the Summary Offences Act 1981. It usually covers conduct that disturbs public order, such as fighting in public.

In New Zealand, exceeding the speed limit usually results in:

A fine and demerit points, with bigger penalties at higher speeds. Speeding offences are usually dealt with by infringement fines and demerit points. High-level speeding can lead to court action, loss of licence, and possible prison.

In New Zealand, accumulating 100 or more demerit points within two years results in:

A 3-month driver licence suspension. Drivers who accumulate 100 or more demerit points within 2 years have their licence suspended for 3 months. Demerit points come with many traffic offences.

In New Zealand, the District Court hears most cases. The High Court generally hears:

More serious criminal trials, civil cases over set thresholds, and some appeals. The High Court hears the most serious criminal trials (such as murder), civil cases above the District Court limit, and appeals from the District Court. The Court of Appeal sits above it.

In New Zealand, possession of a small amount of cannabis for personal use is:

An offence under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1975 (cannabis is a Class C drug). Cannabis is a Class C controlled drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1975. Possession or use is an offence, although Police have discretion to consider a health-based approach for personal use.

In New Zealand, an Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA) handles:

Complaints about the conduct of New Zealand Police officers and Police practice. The Independent Police Conduct Authority is an independent body that takes complaints about Police conduct or practice and can investigate them.

In New Zealand, when arrested by Police, a person:

Has the right to remain silent and to consult a lawyer without delay. Sections 23 and 24 of the Bill of Rights Act 1990 give arrested people the right to be told why they are arrested, to remain silent, and to consult a lawyer without delay.

What is the minimum age of criminal responsibility in New Zealand?

10. The general age of criminal responsibility in New Zealand is 10. Children aged 10 or 11 can only be charged with murder or manslaughter. Children aged 12 or 13 can be charged with serious offences that carry a maximum penalty of 14 or more years in prison.

Which of these is a criminal offence under New Zealand law?

Burglary (entering a building without permission to commit a crime). Burglary is a serious criminal offence under the Crimes Act 1961. It involves entering a building without permission with intent to commit a crime inside.

New Zealand's blood-alcohol limit for drivers aged 20 and over is:

50 mg per 100 ml of blood. For drivers aged 20 and over, the limit is 50 mg of alcohol per 100 ml of blood, or 250 micrograms per litre of breath.

For drivers under 20, the legal limit for alcohol while driving is:

Zero alcohol. Drivers under 20 must have zero alcohol in their breath or blood when driving in New Zealand. This is a strict zero limit.

Driving without a current driver licence in New Zealand is:

A traffic offence. Driving without holding a valid driver licence is a traffic offence and can result in fines and other penalties.

Domestic (family) violence in New Zealand is:

A criminal offence and a serious public concern. Family violence is a criminal offence. The Family Violence Act 2018 and the Crimes Act 1961 set out protections, offences, and orders that can be made.

Which agency takes most criminal complaints from the public?

The Police. New Zealand Police investigate crimes. Some specialist agencies handle particular offences (for example, customs, immigration, and tax fraud).

New Zealand's main trial-level criminal court for less serious cases is:

The District Court. The District Court hears most criminal and civil cases in New Zealand. More serious cases can move to the High Court.

New Zealand's highest court is:

The Supreme Court of New Zealand. The Supreme Court of New Zealand, set up by the Supreme Court Act 2003, is the highest court. It replaced the Privy Council in London for New Zealand cases.

Under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1975, dealing with a Class A controlled drug carries a maximum penalty of:

Life imprisonment. Section 6 of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1975 sets the maximum penalty for dealing in a Class A drug at life imprisonment. Class B is up to 14 years, Class C up to 8 years.

Under the Bail Act 2000, "reverse onus" provisions for some serious offences mean:

The defendant must satisfy the judge that bail should be granted. For some serious offences (such as Class A drug dealing or where there is a previous record of serious violence), the Bail Act 2000 puts the onus on the defendant to show why they should be released on bail.

The main purposes of sentencing under the Sentencing Act 2002 include:

Holding the offender accountable, denouncing conduct, deterring offending, and rehabilitation. Section 7 of the Sentencing Act 2002 lists purposes including accountability, promoting responsibility, providing for the interests of the victim, denouncing, deterring, protecting the community, and assisting rehabilitation.

In New Zealand, the Search and Surveillance Act 2012 mainly:

Sets out rules and powers for searches by Police and other enforcement agencies. The Search and Surveillance Act 2012 governs how Police and other enforcement officers can search people, places, and things, and use surveillance devices. It works alongside the section 21 right under the Bill of Rights Act.

In New Zealand criminal procedure, "Category 1" and "Category 2" offences are:

Less serious offences usually heard by a judge alone in the District Court. Under the Criminal Procedure Act 2011, offences are split into 4 categories. Category 1 and 2 are less serious and tried by a judge alone. Category 3 can have a jury, and Category 4 (the most serious) is tried in the High Court.

In New Zealand, a "summary offence" is generally:

A less serious offence dealt with quickly in the District Court without a jury. Summary offences are less serious offences. Most are heard in the District Court by a judge alone, without a jury. Many are listed in the Summary Offences Act 1981.

The Crimes Act offence of "common assault" is best described as:

Intentionally applying force to another person without lawful reason. Assault under the Crimes Act 1961 is the act of intentionally applying or attempting to apply force to another person without lawful justification or consent.

Murder under the Crimes Act 1961 generally carries a:

Presumption of life imprisonment. Section 172 of the Crimes Act sets the punishment for murder. There is a presumption of life imprisonment, although the court may impose a lesser sentence in rare cases where life would be manifestly unjust.

Driving with a blood-alcohol level above the adult limit in New Zealand can lead to:

A fine, loss of licence, and possibly imprisonment for serious cases. Drink-driving above the adult limit (50 mg per 100 ml of blood) is an offence under the Land Transport Act 1998. Penalties include fines, demerit points, loss of licence, and prison for repeat or high-level offending.

In New Zealand, the legal age of consent for sexual activity is:

16. The age of consent for sexual activity in New Zealand is 16, set out in the Crimes Act 1961.

In New Zealand criminal law, the standard of proof needed to convict a person is:

Beyond reasonable doubt. The criminal standard is "beyond reasonable doubt". Civil cases use a lower standard, "the balance of probabilities".

Topic · 49 practice questions

Criminal offences

Last updated 12 May 2026

Criminal offences is one of the six topic areas govt.nz lists for the New Zealand citizenship test. It covers the kinds of laws people are expected to know about as part of everyday life: drink driving, family violence, theft and dishonesty offences, drugs, and the role of the New Zealand Police. The questions below are practice questions written from publicly available guidance, not the real test.

Take the practice quiz

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What this topic covers

Common criminal offences in New Zealand
The role of the New Zealand Police
Drink-driving and drug-driving rules
Family violence and protection orders
Where to get help if you are a victim of crime

Note: These are practice questions only. They do not constitute legal advice and the official test materials have not been released.

Practice questions (49)

Question 1

In New Zealand, the standard speed limit on most rural open roads is:
- A 50 km/h
- B 70 km/h
- C 100 km/h Correct
- D 110 km/h on every state highway in the country, regardless of conditions
Why

The default open-road speed limit is 100 km/h. Some sections of motorway are now posted at 110 km/h, and lower limits apply in towns, near schools, and on some rural roads.

Source: www.nzta.govt.nz
Question 2

In New Zealand, motorbike riders and pillion passengers must:
- A Wear a high-visibility safety vest at all times when riding on any public road in NZ
- B Wear an approved safety helmet at all times when on the road Correct
- C Be over the age of twenty-five before they can ride as a pillion in any case
- D Have at least three years of car driving experience before they can ride a motorbike
Why

Motorbike riders and pillion passengers must wear an approved safety helmet on the road. Riding without one is a traffic offence under the Land Transport Act 1998.

Source: www.nzta.govt.nz
Question 3

On which side of the road do you drive in New Zealand?
- A The right
- B The left Correct
- C The middle
- D It depends on the region
Why

In New Zealand you drive on the left, like in the UK, Australia, and Japan.

Source: www.nzta.govt.nz
Question 4

Which of these is a serious crime under New Zealand law?
- A Lighting a bonfire on private property
- B Theft Correct
- C Parking on your own driveway
- D Hosting a private gathering
Why

Theft is a criminal offence under the Crimes Act 1961. It involves dishonestly taking someone else's property without their permission.

Source: www.legislation.govt.nz
Question 5

Drink-driving (driving while affected by alcohol) is:
- A Legal if you drive slowly
- B A criminal offence in New Zealand Correct
- C Only illegal at night
- D Only illegal in cities
Why

Drink-driving is a serious criminal offence. It can lead to fines, loss of your licence, or imprisonment.

Source: www.nzta.govt.nz
Question 6

It is illegal in New Zealand to drive a car while:
- A Listening to the radio
- B Holding and using a phone Correct
- C Wearing a coat
- D Drinking water
Why

It is against the law to use a hand-held mobile phone while driving in New Zealand. You can use a phone hands-free in some situations.

Source: www.nzta.govt.nz
Question 7

It is illegal in New Zealand to:
- A Hit another person without lawful reason (assault) Correct
- B Take photographs in any public park or reserve
- C Wear sunglasses inside a shop or shopping centre
- D Talk loudly with friends in a quiet shop or library
Why

Assault, hitting or attacking another person without lawful reason, is a criminal offence under the Crimes Act 1961.

Source: www.legislation.govt.nz
Question 8

At what age can you legally buy tobacco or vaping products in New Zealand?
- A 16
- B 17
- C 18 Correct
- D 21
Why

You must be 18 or over to buy tobacco, vaping products, or smokeless tobacco in New Zealand.

Source: www.legislation.govt.nz
Question 9

Wearing a seatbelt in a car in New Zealand is:
- A Optional for adults but mandatory for any children under twelve
- B Required by law for the driver and all passengers if a belt is fitted Correct
- C Only required while driving above 50 km/h on the open motorway
- D Only required for back-seat passengers under the age of sixteen
Why

The driver and all passengers must wear a seatbelt if one is fitted to the seat. The driver is responsible for making sure children under 15 are properly restrained.

Source: www.nzta.govt.nz
Question 10

Children under what age must be in an approved child restraint in a car?
- A 5
- B 7 Correct
- C 12
- D 16
Why

Children under 7 must travel in an approved child restraint that is suitable for their age and size whenever they are in a car.

Source: www.nzta.govt.nz
Question 11

In New Zealand, jury service is:
- A A purely voluntary civic duty for any New Zealand adult
- B A duty most people on the electoral roll can be called to do Correct
- C A role open only to qualified lawyers and retired judges
- D A civic duty open only to those over sixty years of age
Why

Most adults on the electoral roll can be called for jury service. The Juries Act 1981 sets the rules for who can serve and the small list of people who are excused.

Source: www.justice.govt.nz
Question 12

Driving while using a hand-held mobile phone in New Zealand:
- A Allowed when the vehicle is moving at low road speed
- B Is a traffic offence with a fine and demerit points Correct
- C Allowed if the driver is over the age of thirty years
- D Only banned during the hours between dusk and dawn
Why

Using a hand-held mobile phone while driving is illegal under the Land Transport Act 1998 and the road rules. It carries a fine and demerit points.

Source: www.nzta.govt.nz
Question 13

Selling alcohol to a person under 18 in New Zealand is:
- A Permitted at supermarkets but not at convenience stores
- B An offence under the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012 Correct
- C Allowed at major outdoor sports events with crowd controls
- D Allowed for tourists holding a valid overseas passport
Why

The Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012 makes it an offence to sell or supply alcohol to people under 18 in licensed premises, with limited exceptions.

Source: www.legislation.govt.nz
Question 14

In New Zealand, smacking a child as discipline is:
- A Permitted for parents in all family situations and homes provided no injury or mark is left
- B Generally an assault under the Crimes Act, with no defence of "reasonable force" for correction Correct
- C Allowed only at registered private and state schools, in line with school discipline policies
- D Required by law in certain cases involving repeated and serious child disobedience at home
Why

A 2007 amendment to section 59 of the Crimes Act removed the defence of reasonable force for the purpose of correction. Hitting a child for discipline is generally treated as assault.

Source: www.legislation.govt.nz
Question 15 · medium

In New Zealand, a "Protection Order" under the Family Violence Act 2018 is:
- A An order from a District Court judge that protects victims of family violence Correct
- B A formal warning issued by Police that lasts only twenty-four hours after the offence
- C A type of insurance policy that pays a victim a fixed sum after any assault
- D A short-term restraining order that only the New Zealand Police can ever issue
Why

A Protection Order is a court order that limits how a respondent can contact or behave towards a protected person. Breaching a Protection Order is a criminal offence.

Source: www.justice.govt.nz
Question 16 · medium

Under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1975, controlled drugs are split into how many classes?
- A Two classes (Class A and Class B)
- B Three classes (Class A, B, and C) Correct
- C Four classes (Class A, B, C, and D)
- D Five classes including a separate class for medicines and another for plants
Why

The Misuse of Drugs Act 1975 puts controlled drugs into Class A (very high risk), Class B (high risk), and Class C (moderate risk).

Source: www.legislation.govt.nz
Question 17 · medium

Under the Trespass Act 1980, a person commits an offence if they are warned to leave a property and:
- A They post a complaint about the warning on social media within seven days of receipt
- B They neglect or refuse to leave, or they return within two years of the warning Correct
- C They walk past the property again on the public footpath at any time afterwards
- D They are seen by the property owner driving past the property in their own car
Why

Under section 3 of the Trespass Act 1980, it is an offence to remain on a property after being told to leave. Returning within 2 years of a trespass warning is also an offence.

Source: www.legislation.govt.nz
Question 18 · medium

Under New Zealand law, a person can act in self-defence using:
- A Any level of force at all, even if it is far greater than the threat the person faced
- B Force that is reasonable in the circumstances as the person believes them to be Correct
- C Only the same level of force as the attacker uses, with no other test applying
- D Only verbal threats and no actual physical force in any situation involving a threat
Why

Under section 48 of the Crimes Act 1961, a person is justified in using such force as is reasonable in the circumstances as he or she believes them to be. The test combines what the person believed with what was reasonable.

Source: www.legislation.govt.nz
Question 19 · medium

In New Zealand, "bail" is:
- A A fine paid as part of a final sentence after a defendant has been convicted in court
- B The release of a defendant while their case is ongoing, with conditions in many cases Correct
- C A type of community sentence that requires reporting to a probation officer weekly
- D A formal Police caution that ends the case without any court hearing taking place
Why

Bail is the release of a person charged with an offence while their case is ongoing. The Bail Act 2000 sets out when bail can be granted and what conditions can apply.

Source: www.legislation.govt.nz
Question 20 · medium

Under the Victims' Rights Act 2002, a victim of certain offences has the right to:
- A Personally choose the prison that the offender will be sent to after sentencing
- B Provide a victim impact statement to the court before sentencing Correct
- C Cancel the trial at any stage, ending the process without any further hearing
- D Decide which judge will hear and decide their case during all hearings
Why

Victims have the right to provide a victim impact statement. The judge takes the statement into account at sentencing. Victims also have rights to information and to be told about parole and release.

Source: www.legislation.govt.nz
Question 21 · medium

In New Zealand, "name suppression" in a criminal case is:
- A A court order that prevents some names or details being published in the news media Correct
- B A rule that no court hearing in New Zealand can ever be reported to the public at all
- C A right that always applies automatically to every defendant during a court hearing
- D A standard step that only ever applies to people who plead guilty at first appearance
Why

A court can order name suppression of a defendant or witness, usually for limited reasons such as risk of extreme hardship, safety, or to protect a victim. The Criminal Procedure Act 2011 sets the rules.

Source: www.justice.govt.nz
Question 22 · medium

In New Zealand, "restorative justice" in criminal cases is:
- A A formal meeting between the offender, victim, and a trained facilitator to discuss harm Correct
- B A new trial held by a community panel after the District Court has decided the case
- C A formal sentence reduction that is automatically applied to every guilty plea in NZ
- D A way of cancelling all court costs after a victim withdraws their complaint to Police
Why

Restorative justice is a voluntary process where the offender and victim meet (with a trained facilitator) to discuss what happened and what could put things right. The judge can take the outcome into account at sentencing.

Source: www.justice.govt.nz
Question 23 · medium

In New Zealand, "disorderly behaviour" is:
- A A serious indictable offence under the Crimes Act 1961, with a long maximum sentence
- B A summary offence under the Summary Offences Act 1981 covering disruptive behaviour in public Correct
- C A traffic offence handled solely by NZTA, with no criminal record attached to it
- D A complaint heard only by the Human Rights Review Tribunal under the Human Rights Act
Why

Disorderly behaviour is an offence under the Summary Offences Act 1981. It usually covers conduct that disturbs public order, such as fighting in public.

Source: www.legislation.govt.nz
Question 24 · medium

In New Zealand, exceeding the speed limit usually results in:
- A An automatic prison sentence for any speed over the posted limit on any road
- B A fine and demerit points, with bigger penalties at higher speeds Correct
- C No penalty at all if you have a clean driving record over the past three years
- D A free defensive driving lesson at any NZTA licensing office in your home district
Why

Speeding offences are usually dealt with by infringement fines and demerit points. High-level speeding can lead to court action, loss of licence, and possible prison.

Source: www.nzta.govt.nz
Question 25 · medium

In New Zealand, accumulating 100 or more demerit points within two years results in:
- A A formal warning letter and no other consequences for the driver concerned
- B A 3-month driver licence suspension Correct
- C An automatic permanent ban from holding any New Zealand driver licence at all
- D A free driver retraining course funded by the Accident Compensation Corporation
Why

Drivers who accumulate 100 or more demerit points within 2 years have their licence suspended for 3 months. Demerit points come with many traffic offences.

Source: www.nzta.govt.nz
Question 26 · medium

In New Zealand, the District Court hears most cases. The High Court generally hears:
- A Only minor parking and dog control complaints brought by local councils in NZ
- B More serious criminal trials, civil cases over set thresholds, and some appeals Correct
- C Only employment disputes between staff and their employers in central government
- D Only family law cases involving care of children and relationship property in NZ
Why

The High Court hears the most serious criminal trials (such as murder), civil cases above the District Court limit, and appeals from the District Court. The Court of Appeal sits above it.

Source: www.courtsofnz.govt.nz
Question 27 · medium

In New Zealand, possession of a small amount of cannabis for personal use is:
- A Fully legal for adults aged 18 and over to buy, possess, and use in any setting
- B An offence under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1975 (cannabis is a Class C drug) Correct
- C Allowed in private homes but a serious offence to grow even one plant indoors
- D Treated as a parking-style infringement with no criminal record attached at all
Why

Cannabis is a Class C controlled drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1975. Possession or use is an offence, although Police have discretion to consider a health-based approach for personal use.

Source: www.legislation.govt.nz
Question 28 · medium

In New Zealand, an Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA) handles:
- A Complaints about the conduct of New Zealand Police officers and Police practice Correct
- B All criminal complaints made by the public against members of the public in NZ
- C Disciplinary cases against lawyers practising in the District and High Courts
- D Complaints about the use of body-worn cameras by private security guards in NZ
Why

The Independent Police Conduct Authority is an independent body that takes complaints about Police conduct or practice and can investigate them.

Source: www.ipca.govt.nz
Question 29 · medium

In New Zealand, when arrested by Police, a person:
- A Must immediately answer all questions asked by the Police officer at the scene
- B Has the right to remain silent and to consult a lawyer without delay Correct
- C Must give a written statement before being released from the Police station
- D Can be held without charge for up to seven days while Police gather evidence
Why

Sections 23 and 24 of the Bill of Rights Act 1990 give arrested people the right to be told why they are arrested, to remain silent, and to consult a lawyer without delay.

Source: www.legislation.govt.nz
Question 30 · medium

What is the minimum age of criminal responsibility in New Zealand?
- A 8
- B 10 Correct
- C 14
- D 16
Why

The general age of criminal responsibility in New Zealand is 10. Children aged 10 or 11 can only be charged with murder or manslaughter. Children aged 12 or 13 can be charged with serious offences that carry a maximum penalty of 14 or more years in prison.

Source: www.youthcourt.govt.nz
Question 31 · medium

Which of these is a criminal offence under New Zealand law?
- A Driving a vehicle that has current registration and warrant
- B Burglary (entering a building without permission to commit a crime) Correct
- C Being late to work without giving any prior notice
- D Walking on a public beach during the early evening hours
Why

Burglary is a serious criminal offence under the Crimes Act 1961. It involves entering a building without permission with intent to commit a crime inside.

Source: www.legislation.govt.nz
Question 32 · medium

New Zealand's blood-alcohol limit for drivers aged 20 and over is:
- A 80 mg per 100 ml of blood
- B 50 mg per 100 ml of blood Correct
- C 0 (no alcohol allowed)
- D 100 mg per 100 ml of blood
Why

For drivers aged 20 and over, the limit is 50 mg of alcohol per 100 ml of blood, or 250 micrograms per litre of breath.

Source: www.transport.govt.nz
Question 33 · medium

For drivers under 20, the legal limit for alcohol while driving is:
- A The same as for adults
- B Zero alcohol Correct
- C Half the adult limit
- D Twice the adult limit
Why

Drivers under 20 must have zero alcohol in their breath or blood when driving in New Zealand. This is a strict zero limit.

Source: www.transport.govt.nz
Question 34 · medium

Driving without a current driver licence in New Zealand is:
- A Always fine
- B A traffic offence Correct
- C Allowed if your country's licence is in your bag
- D Allowed in rural areas
Why

Driving without holding a valid driver licence is a traffic offence and can result in fines and other penalties.

Source: www.nzta.govt.nz
Question 35 · medium

Domestic (family) violence in New Zealand is:
- A A private matter the law does not cover
- B A criminal offence and a serious public concern Correct
- C Allowed in some marriages
- D Only investigated if there are witnesses
Why

Family violence is a criminal offence. The Family Violence Act 2018 and the Crimes Act 1961 set out protections, offences, and orders that can be made.

Source: www.justice.govt.nz
Question 36 · medium

Which agency takes most criminal complaints from the public?
- A The Reserve Bank
- B The Police Correct
- C The Ministry of Health
- D The Department of Internal Affairs
Why

New Zealand Police investigate crimes. Some specialist agencies handle particular offences (for example, customs, immigration, and tax fraud).

Source: www.police.govt.nz
Question 37 · medium

New Zealand's main trial-level criminal court for less serious cases is:
- A The Supreme Court
- B The District Court Correct
- C The Court of Appeal
- D The Privy Council
Why

The District Court hears most criminal and civil cases in New Zealand. More serious cases can move to the High Court.

Source: www.districtcourts.govt.nz
Question 38 · medium

New Zealand's highest court is:
- A The District Court, hearing most criminal and civil cases
- B The High Court, sitting in the four main centres
- C The Court of Appeal, which reviews lower court decisions
- D The Supreme Court of New Zealand Correct
Why

The Supreme Court of New Zealand, set up by the Supreme Court Act 2003, is the highest court. It replaced the Privy Council in London for New Zealand cases.

Source: www.courtsofnz.govt.nz
Question 39 · hard

Under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1975, dealing with a Class A controlled drug carries a maximum penalty of:
- A A fine of up to one thousand dollars and no possible prison sentence at all
- B Life imprisonment Correct
- C A maximum of two years in prison and a fine, with no possible longer sentence
- D A community sentence of up to four hundred hours of community work and a fine
Why

Section 6 of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1975 sets the maximum penalty for dealing in a Class A drug at life imprisonment. Class B is up to 14 years, Class C up to 8 years.

Source: www.legislation.govt.nz
Question 40 · hard

Under the Bail Act 2000, "reverse onus" provisions for some serious offences mean:
- A The Police must prove that the defendant should be granted bail in any case
- B The defendant must satisfy the judge that bail should be granted Correct
- C Bail is automatically granted unless a judge gives written reasons for refusal
- D The court must order a hearing within 24 hours of the first court appearance
Why

For some serious offences (such as Class A drug dealing or where there is a previous record of serious violence), the Bail Act 2000 puts the onus on the defendant to show why they should be released on bail.

Source: www.legislation.govt.nz
Question 41 · hard

The main purposes of sentencing under the Sentencing Act 2002 include:
- A Holding the offender accountable, denouncing conduct, deterring offending, and rehabilitation Correct
- B Recovering legal aid costs from the offender's family under the Legal Services Act
- C Setting maximum bail conditions and managing prison population under the Bail Act 2000
- D Allocating community service hours among regional councils under local government law
Why

Section 7 of the Sentencing Act 2002 lists purposes including accountability, promoting responsibility, providing for the interests of the victim, denouncing, deterring, protecting the community, and assisting rehabilitation.

Source: www.legislation.govt.nz
Question 42 · hard

In New Zealand, the Search and Surveillance Act 2012 mainly:
- A Sets out rules and powers for searches by Police and other enforcement agencies Correct
- B Sets out the rules for civilian surveillance of neighbours during noise disputes
- C Sets out the rules for media reporting on the actions of the New Zealand Police
- D Sets out the rules for biosecurity searches at New Zealand airports and ports
Why

The Search and Surveillance Act 2012 governs how Police and other enforcement officers can search people, places, and things, and use surveillance devices. It works alongside the section 21 right under the Bill of Rights Act.

Source: www.legislation.govt.nz
Question 43 · hard

In New Zealand criminal procedure, "Category 1" and "Category 2" offences are:
- A Less serious offences usually heard by a judge alone in the District Court Correct
- B The most serious offences, such as murder and manslaughter, heard in the High Court
- C Offences that are heard only in the Court of Appeal in Wellington of New Zealand
- D Offences that are dealt with by trial in the Maori Land Court near the offence
Why

Under the Criminal Procedure Act 2011, offences are split into 4 categories. Category 1 and 2 are less serious and tried by a judge alone. Category 3 can have a jury, and Category 4 (the most serious) is tried in the High Court.

Source: www.legislation.govt.nz
Question 44 · hard

In New Zealand, a "summary offence" is generally:
- A A less serious offence dealt with quickly in the District Court without a jury Correct
- B The most serious type of offence, which is heard only in the Supreme Court of NZ
- C An offence handled only by the Maori Land Court for cases involving Maori land in NZ
- D An offence that is automatically dismissed if there is no public statement to media
Why

Summary offences are less serious offences. Most are heard in the District Court by a judge alone, without a jury. Many are listed in the Summary Offences Act 1981.

Source: www.legislation.govt.nz
Question 45 · hard

The Crimes Act offence of "common assault" is best described as:
- A Driving any motor vehicle over the posted speed limit on a public road
- B Intentionally applying force to another person without lawful reason Correct
- C Stealing items of low value from a shop, supermarket, or workplace
- D Speaking rudely or aggressively to a stranger in a public place or shop
Why

Assault under the Crimes Act 1961 is the act of intentionally applying or attempting to apply force to another person without lawful justification or consent.

Source: www.legislation.govt.nz
Question 46 · hard

Murder under the Crimes Act 1961 generally carries a:
- A A two year maximum prison term and a moderate fine
- B Presumption of life imprisonment Correct
- C A $500 fine and twelve months home detention
- D Community service for around 200 hours and a fine
Why

Section 172 of the Crimes Act sets the punishment for murder. There is a presumption of life imprisonment, although the court may impose a lesser sentence in rare cases where life would be manifestly unjust.

Source: www.legislation.govt.nz
Question 47 · hard

Driving with a blood-alcohol level above the adult limit in New Zealand can lead to:
- A A fine, loss of licence, and possibly imprisonment for serious cases Correct
- B A short written warning posted to the registered owner of the vehicle a few days after the offence
- C A free advanced driving lesson at the nearest NZ Transport Agency licensing office for first offenders
- D No penalty for first offences, only a recorded caution that drops off the driver record after twelve months
Why

Drink-driving above the adult limit (50 mg per 100 ml of blood) is an offence under the Land Transport Act 1998. Penalties include fines, demerit points, loss of licence, and prison for repeat or high-level offending.

Source: www.nzta.govt.nz
Question 48 · hard

In New Zealand, the legal age of consent for sexual activity is:
- A 14
- B 15
- C 16 Correct
- D 21
Why

The age of consent for sexual activity in New Zealand is 16, set out in the Crimes Act 1961.

Source: www.legislation.govt.nz
Question 49 · hard

In New Zealand criminal law, the standard of proof needed to convict a person is:
- A Beyond reasonable doubt Correct
- B On the balance of probabilities
- C Beyond all possible doubt
- D On the judge's preference
Why

The criminal standard is "beyond reasonable doubt". Civil cases use a lower standard, "the balance of probabilities".

Source: www.justice.govt.nz

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