We were designated an NPM in 2007 under an amendment to the Crimes of Torture Act 1989. The focus is to prevent human rights breaches in places of Police detention.
We identify systemic issues arising from complaints and incidents such as:
We also make regular announced and unannounced visits to Police and court cells.
The Human Rights Commission has overall responsibility for coordinating New Zealand's programme of monitoring and reporting on places of detention.
Find out more about the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture (OPCAT) and our role in monitoring places of Police detention.
Read about our reports on places of Police detention.
View the OPCAT Annual reports.
View the Crimes of Torture Act 1989.