Summary Offences Act 1981

Offences resembling nuisance

37: Disturbing meetings

You could also call this:

"Don't disrupt meetings in public - you could get a fine."

Illustration for Summary Offences Act 1981

You can get a fine of up to $200 if you unreasonably disrupt a meeting in a public place. This includes meetings, congregations, or audiences. You will be liable to this fine if you do this.

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View the original legislation for this page at https://legislation.govt.nz/act/public/1986/0120/latest/link.aspx?id=DLM53708.

This page was last updated on 11 December 2025 — View changes

Topics:

Crime and justice > Police and safetyGovernment and voting > Local councils

36: Lighting fires, or

"Don't set fires near buildings or plants without a good reason"

38: Drinking in public place, or

"Drinking alcohol in public places is not allowed and can result in a fine"

37Disturbing meetings

Every person is liable to a fine not exceeding $200 who, in any public place, unreasonably disrupts any meeting, congregation, or audience.

Compare

1927 No 35 ss 3(dd), 3C
1960 No 7 s 3(1)
1967 No 154 s 2(1)

Notes

Section 37: amended, on 1 January 1998, by section 7 of the Summary Offences Amendment Act 1997 (1997 No 97).