17Exceptions to non-eligibility for visa or entry permission

1. Despite sections 15 and 16, a visa and entry permission may be granted to any person—

2. in accordance with a special direction; or
3. in accordance with section 83.

4. Despite sections 15 and 16,—

5. entry permission must be granted to—
   1. the holder of a permanent resident visa; and
   2. the holder of a resident visa granted in New Zealand; and
   3. the holder of a resident visa arriving in New Zealand for a second or subsequent time as the holder of the visa:
6. a visa and entry permission must be granted to a person who is for the time being entitled to any immunity from jurisdiction by or under the Diplomatic Privileges and Immunities Act 1968 (other than a person referred to in section 10D(2)(d) of that Act) or the Consular Privileges and Immunities Act 1971.

7. A decision to grant a visa and entry permission under subsection (1) is in the absolute discretion of the decision maker.

Compare

• 1987 No 74 ss 7(3), (4), 11(1)(a)