Plain language law

New Zealand law explained for everyone

 Plain Language Law homepage
Back to
73: Treason
or “This law explains what counts as being very disloyal to New Zealand and its ruler.”
You could also call this:

“This law explains how you might be punished if you try to hurt or betray your country.”

If you commit treason, as described in parts (a) to (e) of section 73, you will be sent to prison for life if you are found guilty. This is the usual punishment, unless the law says something different.

If you commit treason as described in part (f) of section 73, you can be sent to prison for up to 14 years.

If you are loyal to the Sovereign of New Zealand (like the King or Queen) and you try to commit treason, either inside or outside of New Zealand, you can be sent to prison for up to 14 years.

This text is automatically generated. It might be out of date or be missing some parts. Find out more about how we do this.

Next up: 75: Evidence of treason

or “You need more than one person's evidence to prove someone committed treason, except in special cases.”
Next

Part 5 Crimes against public order
Treason and other crimes against the Sovereign and the State

74Punishment for treason or attempted treason

  1. Except as otherwise provided in this Act, every one who commits treason within the meaning of any of the provisions of paragraphs (a) to (e) of section 73 shall upon conviction be sentenced to imprisonment for life.

  2. Every one is liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 14 years who commits treason within the meaning of paragraph (f) of the said section 73.

  3. Every one is liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 14 years who, owing allegiance to the Sovereign in right of New Zealand, attempts to commit treason within or outside New Zealand.

Compare
  • 1908 No 32 ss 95, 99
Notes
  • Section 74(1): amended, on , by section 3(2) of the Abolition of the Death Penalty Act 1989 (1989 No 119).