Defence Act 1990

Offences punishable by civil courts

83: Obstructing members of Armed Forces in execution of duty

You could also call this:

"Blocking Armed Forces members from doing their job"

You can commit an offence if you obstruct a member of the Armed Forces on purpose or by being reckless. This can happen in New Zealand or elsewhere when a member is doing their job. You could go to prison for up to 3 months or get a fine of up to $1,000 if you are found guilty.

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View the original legislation for this page at https://legislation.govt.nz/act/public/1986/0120/latest/link.aspx?id=DLM206498.

This page was last updated on 14 December 2025 — View changes

Topics:

Crime and justice > Criminal lawCrime and justice > Police and safety

82: Procuring and assisting desertion, or

"Helping a soldier desert or hide is against the law"

84: Obstructing parades, or

"Don't stop military exercises on purpose or by accident"

Part 7Offences punishable by civil courts

83Obstructing members of Armed Forces in execution of duty

Every person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 months or to a fine not exceeding $1,000 who, in New Zealand or elsewhere, intentionally or recklessly obstructs or interferes with any member of the Armed Forces acting in the execution of his or her duty.

Notes

Section 83: amended, on 1 July 2013, by section 413 of the Criminal Procedure Act 2011 (2011 No 81).