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Government announces crackdown on immigration breaches with new deportation rules, as overstayer numbers revealed
The Government is cracking down on serious immigration breaches, announcing it will strengthen deportation settings on the same day Immigration NZ revealed there are more than 20,000 people who have overstayed their visa.
Immigration Minister Erica Stanford believes the changes, soon to be … View moreThe Government is cracking down on serious immigration breaches, announcing it will strengthen deportation settings on the same day Immigration NZ revealed there are more than 20,000 people who have overstayed their visa.
Immigration Minister Erica Stanford believes the changes, soon to be introduced to Parliament, will address gaps in New Zealand’s compliance framework.
For example, under the current rules, someone who commits a serious crime cannot be liable for deportation if they have held a residence visa for more than 10 years.
“We’re fixing that,” Stanford said. “Where migrants don’t follow the conditions of their visa, I’ve made it clear to Immigration NZ compliance and enforcement actions are a priority.”
Between July 2024 and the end of June this year, 1259 people were deported from New Zealand, self-deported or voluntarily departed New Zealand, Immigration NZ said. This is an increase of 352 from the previous financial year.
Among the changes that Stanford’s new legislation will make is an expansion of deportation liability to up to 20 years to cover those with residence class visas who commit serious criminal offences.
Rules will be tightened to ensure providing false or misleading information can trigger deportation liability and clarifying that historic crimes – including those committed before arriving in New Zealand – can lead to deportation liability.
The definition of when a visa is considered to have been granted in error will be expanded. This means holders of a visa granted by mistake will no longer benefit from it and may be liable for deportation.
Deportation liability notices will also be able to be issued electronically if a physical address cannot be located. Immigration offers will have the ability to request identity-based information from someone when there is good cause to suspect they may be in breach of their visa conditions or potentially liable for deportation.
“We know most people comply with their visa conditions and New Zealand laws while they are here,” said Stanford.
“For those who do not, it’s important we have the right tools in place. We are proposing changes to the Immigration Act to ensure the immigration system is more robust and responsive so it can act more decisively when serious breaches occur.”
Stanford said penalties for migrant exploitation will also be toughened. The maximum penalty will rise from seven years imprisonment to 10 years.
“Migrant exploitation is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. This change recognises the seriousness of this crime and builds on a suite of changes made by this Government to reduce the opportunity for exploitation and stamp it out when it occurs.”
Immigration NZ said on Thursday that as of July 1, there were around 20,980 people in New Zealand who have overstayed their visa. This is the first estimate to be carried out using a new methodology which the agency believes has better accuracy than the previous one used in 2017.
In 2017, there were an estimated 14,000 overstayers, but immigration NZ warned against direct comparisons because of the different methodologies used.
In terms of nationalities, there are 2599 individuals from Tonga who were believed to be overstayers, followed by 2577 from China and 2213 from the US.
The top 10, which also includes people from Samoa, India, Great Britain, Philippines, Malaysia, Canada and Germany, represents 69.7% of the total estimate.
There were 24,425 people from Tonga who arrived in New Zealand on a temporary visa between July 1, 2023, and June 30, 2025. Of these, 472 were recorded as being overstayers, or 1.93%. This is the largest percentage recorded, followed by 1.66% of Samoans who arrived during this period.
Most of those recorded as being overstayers are in New Zealand on a visitor visa. Only a small number are here on a work visa – 2219 – or a student visa, 1031.
Ricardo Menéndez March from the Greens said the figures showed the need for the Government to offer a pathway to residency to many of those “falling through the cracks”.
“People without a visa need support. Most are active participants in our communities, have family here, and are also more vulnerable to exploitation,” he said.
“While the Greens have stopped countless families from being deported and their livelihoods destroyed, the Government should do its part.
“An amnesty programme for overstayers is not a novel idea - the New Zealand government offered a residency pathway for thousands of overstayers in the 1980s.
“The Greens have long called for an amnesty for overstayers, and better residency pathways for migrants. This is backed by many organisations such as the Pacific Leadership Forum and the Migrant Workers Association.”
Steve Watson, general manager of Immigration Compliance and Investigations, said the total estimate was a small proportion of the temporary migrants who come to New Zealand.
“Each year, New Zealand processes around one million visa applications and 1.6 million New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority requests and sees approximately 3.6 million arrivals from non-New Zealand citizens each year.
“While the vast majority of people comply with their visa conditions and leave before the expiry of their visa, unfortunately some people do not leave and consequently remain in New Zealand unlawfully.”
The estimate will be updated annually to ensure transparency and improve public confidence in the immigration system.
Immigration NZ said it does a significant amount of work to educate migrants on their rights and obligations as visa holders in New Zealand.
“We have an early intervention process for clients who become unlawful, encouraging active engagement with INZ, including options of voluntarily departing New Zealand before they are deported. People who overstay their visa must understand that if they do not qualify for a further visa, they are expected to leave New Zealand, or face deportation. ”
In terms of ensuring compliance, over the past couple of years it has focused on addressing situations such as “criminal activity as the first priority, particularly those who pose a threat to national security”.
“We have improved our productivity significantly in the compliance space over the last two years and this has seen our deportation numbers increase in recent years. Our operational focus is to ensure those who are of greatest risk to New Zealand, are deported.
“When Immigration Compliance staff locate someone who has overstayed their visa, they assess all available options including alternative visa pathways. Where possible individuals are encouraged to leave New Zealand voluntarily if they do not qualify for a new visa.”
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Ryman Residents prove strength has no age limit!
First-time lifter Mona got the technique down pat while Colin lifted an incredible 60kg! Even 100-year-old Bill joined in! Together they raised $1,700 for Hato Hone St John. A day full of fun, courage, and community spirit!
Click read more to read about the full lift-off.
Declutter, Sell, Cash In, Repeat!
Spring’s the perfect time to clear out the garage, wardrobe, or that cluttered cupboard and turn your unused goods into cash!
Join the Neighbourly Online Garage Sale on Saturday, September 27th. It’s free, local, and the easiest way to find new homes for the things you no longer need from … View moreSpring’s the perfect time to clear out the garage, wardrobe, or that cluttered cupboard and turn your unused goods into cash!
Join the Neighbourly Online Garage Sale on Saturday, September 27th. It’s free, local, and the easiest way to find new homes for the things you no longer need from spare tents and pre-loved books to clothes that deserve another spin.
How it works:
List your items individually before the day. Then, sit back as interested buyers on Neighbourly browse and get in touch directly.
And if you’re not selling?
There’s still treasure to be found! Jump online on the 27th and grab yourself a bargain or two.
Let’s turn clutter into community wins.
Don’t miss out!
Transform Your Garden into a Games Zone with This Dartboard Cabinet!
Impress your friends by building an easy-to-make dartboard cabinet finished in Resene FX Faux Rust Effect, Resene FX Blackboard Paint and Resene Furniture and Decking Oil that will transform your garden into a games room. Find out how to make your own dartboard with these easy step by step … View moreImpress your friends by building an easy-to-make dartboard cabinet finished in Resene FX Faux Rust Effect, Resene FX Blackboard Paint and Resene Furniture and Decking Oil that will transform your garden into a games room. Find out how to make your own dartboard with these easy step by step instructions.
What are you watching right now?
With so many amazing series out right now, and with so many streaming services showing exclusive content, we thought we could do a national roundup of the best shows on TV! 📺
We want to know: What are you watching, what makes it the best show around, and where are you watching it?
(The … View moreWith so many amazing series out right now, and with so many streaming services showing exclusive content, we thought we could do a national roundup of the best shows on TV! 📺
We want to know: What are you watching, what makes it the best show around, and where are you watching it?
(The Neighbourly Team's suggestion: Taskmaster on TVNZ, because watching celebrities do silly things over dinner is the end to the day we all need!)
Mac Senior Net Meeting
Come along to St Lukes Church, 130 Remuera Road, on Tuesday 23 September at 2pm.
Our topic is Hearing Technology – an informative and practical session with expert presenter Thomas Müller.
A great chance to learn, ask questions and connect with others. Everyone welcome!
Email: … View moreCome along to St Lukes Church, 130 Remuera Road, on Tuesday 23 September at 2pm.
Our topic is Hearing Technology – an informative and practical session with expert presenter Thomas Müller.
A great chance to learn, ask questions and connect with others. Everyone welcome!
Email: mac.auckland@seniornet.nz or Phone Janet 0212148386.
Made in INDIA in NewZealand
Made-in-India battery-electric trains will run on New Zealand’s tracks within three years.
www.thehindubusinessline.com...
Care for your gardener’s hands with a free gift this September
Gardening can be tough on your hands, so we’ve got the perfect treat. This spring, when you subscribe to NZ Gardener, you’ll receive a FREE Earths Botanics Gardeners Nourishing Hand Cream from Matakana Botanicals, valued at $24 RRP.
Specially crafted for hardworking hands, this luxurious … View moreGardening can be tough on your hands, so we’ve got the perfect treat. This spring, when you subscribe to NZ Gardener, you’ll receive a FREE Earths Botanics Gardeners Nourishing Hand Cream from Matakana Botanicals, valued at $24 RRP.
Specially crafted for hardworking hands, this luxurious cream blends New Zealand Manuka Oil, renowned for its natural antibacterial qualities, with Manuka Honey, to deeply nourish, moisturise, and assist with repair.
Subscribe now to enjoy inspiring ideas for your garden and a little care for your hands.
From the team at Mags4Gifts
T&Cs apply. Offer available to the first 350 people who subscribe to NZ Gardener for 6 months, 1 year, or 2 years between 1–28 September 2025.
Scam Alert: Phone calls from Tel Companys advising you of a prize
2degrees are alerting the public about a new scam involving phone calls. Scammers are targeting personal details while using prizes (smartwatches, phones, and discounts) as bait.
❌ Never give out personal info to callers
🔔 Feeling unsure? End the call and contact the company on their … View more2degrees are alerting the public about a new scam involving phone calls. Scammers are targeting personal details while using prizes (smartwatches, phones, and discounts) as bait.
❌ Never give out personal info to callers
🔔 Feeling unsure? End the call and contact the company on their official number
If you get suspicious communication, please contact Netsafe.
Kiwi families can now claim more money for childcare costs under the FamilyBoost tax rebate.
Families can now get up 40% off their childcare bill, which is a significant increase.
For example, an eligible family paying $100 per week in childcare could now get $40 per week back instead of $25.
More families will also qualify, as we have lifted the income threshold.
These changes will … View moreFamilies can now get up 40% off their childcare bill, which is a significant increase.
For example, an eligible family paying $100 per week in childcare could now get $40 per week back instead of $25.
More families will also qualify, as we have lifted the income threshold.
These changes will apply for fees paid from 1 July 2025.
This will come as a welcome relief for families with young children who are doing it tough with everyday costs.
If you have young children, I encourage you to go onto the Inland Revenue’s website to see if your family is eligible.
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Greenwoods Corner Epsom Spring Festival 2025
The much-loved Greenwoods Corner Spring Festival is set to return on Saturday 20 September 2025, bringing together locals, visitors, and businesses for a vibrant day of music, food, entertainment, and family fun in the heart of Epsom.
Running from 10am to 3pm at the corner of Manukau and Pah Road,… View moreThe much-loved Greenwoods Corner Spring Festival is set to return on Saturday 20 September 2025, bringing together locals, visitors, and businesses for a vibrant day of music, food, entertainment, and family fun in the heart of Epsom.
Running from 10am to 3pm at the corner of Manukau and Pah Road, the festival will once again transform Greenwoods Corner into a lively hub of activity – showcasing the very best of Auckland’s community spirit.
Festivalgoers can expect:
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Live music & performances from talented local musicians and cultural groups
Delicious food & drink from local eateries and market stalls
Family-friendly entertainment including rides, roving performers, and kids’ activities
Stalls & specials featuring unique products and offers from local businesses
Prizes & giveaways throughout the day
While the festival will bring back many of the community’s favourite attractions from previous years, 2025 will also introduce new surprises and enhanced experiences to make the event even more memorable.
The festival is proudly organised by the Greenwoods Corner Business Association and is supported by the local business community and the Albert-Eden Local Board. Entry is free, and everyone is welcome.
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All self-employed people, including contractors and sole traders, can claim expenses against their income.
What you can claim for
Business expenses can include:
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vehicle expenses, transport costs and travel for business purposes
rent paid on business premises
depreciation on items like computers and office furniture
interest on borrowing money for the business
some … View moreWhat you can claim for
Business expenses can include:
==========================
vehicle expenses, transport costs and travel for business purposes
rent paid on business premises
depreciation on items like computers and office furniture
interest on borrowing money for the business
some insurance premiums
work-related journals and magazines
membership of professional associations
home office expenses
work-related mobile phones and phone bills
stationery
work uniforms
tax agent’s fees.
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If you own an investment property, expenses you can claim for include:
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repairs and maintenance (but not renovations that substantially improve the value of the property)
professional services fees, like accountants, lawyers or property managers
rates and insurance
mortgage repayment insurance
vehicle and travel expenses when you travel to inspect your property or do repairs
depreciation on capital expenses, like whiteware, appliances or heat pumps
legal fees involved in buying a rental property, as long as the expense is $10,000 or less.
How much can you claim?
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You can't claim the whole cost of all items, even those only for business use. Some things you can only claim half for, eg some entertainment expenses. You can only claim 100% of the cost for an expense that’s entirely for business use.
If you have an expense that’s partly for your business and partly for your private use, you can claim the proportion that relates to your business.
Example:
If you spend half the time driving a vehicle to deliver goods and the other half for your own reasons, you can claim 50% of the travel costs for your business.
For some expenses, like business entertainment, eg client meals and staff functions, you can only claim half.
Working from home
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If you use an area of your home for your business, eg your study or garage, you can claim a portion of the household expenses, eg:
rates
power
house and contents insurance
mortgage interest if you own the home
rent if you are renting the home.
You must keep invoices for these expenses.
How it works
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If your home is 100 square metres and your working space is 10 square metres — 10% of the total area — you can claim 10% of expenses that are not solely for your business, eg your home phone line.
If you aren't using a separate area of your home for business, you'll need to take into account how much time you spend on your business and the area used.
If you're GST registered, the GST content on home office expenses can be claimed as they’re paid — in each GST return period — or at the end of your tax year. Mortgage interest and rent don’t include GST.
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The latest product recalls
We are bringing you the latest list of recalled products from across the country. Make sure you aren't using these at home!
Click on the blue text to learn more about that particular product and why it was recalled.
Food and household item recalls:
… View moreWe are bringing you the latest list of recalled products from across the country. Make sure you aren't using these at home!
Click on the blue text to learn more about that particular product and why it was recalled.
Food and household item recalls:
Deep brand Green Garlic, Sprouted Mat, Sprouted Moong, and Surti Undhiu Mix
Durra brand Tahina (800g)
Speirs Foods brand salads and Woolworths brand coleslaw
Nutty Black Rice Crisps
Deep brand Sprouted Mat, Sprouted Moong, and Surti Undhiu Mix
Fruitae brand Lemon Sorbet
Food Snob and Mon Ami brand French Cheeses
Product Recalls: Infant care and clothing
Zummi 360 Degree Rotation Superia Car Seat- sold at Farmers
Bunjie Peek-A-Boo Probiotic Baby Eye Wipes: 30 Pack and 60 Pack
Product Recalls: Electronics
Yeelight Staria Bedside Lamp Pro- sold on Mighty Ape
KNOG Blinder 900 & 1300 Bike Lights
Product Recalls: Other
Toy Mania 3D Mini Animal Toy - Assorted (Mini Animal Toy)- sold at Kmart
Armour® Safety Helmet For Height Use With Reflective Tape - EN12492
Potentially Asbestos Impacted Fire Doors- sold by Pacific Door Systems Limited (PDS)
Check the New Zealand Transport Agency's handy vehicle recall list here.
See past months recalls. Stay safe, neighbours!
Unwanted laptop
Hi dear neighbour's,
Does anyone have an unwanted or unused laptop they don't need? Very much needed.
Thank you,
Andrew
Savour the moments that matter with Ryman
Some of the best moments are shared over food. That’s why we’re giving you 10,000 New World Dollars when you sign up to an independent apartment or townhouse by 30 September 2025.*
We’ll cover the grocery bills, so you can spend less time worrying about what’s in the trolley and more … View moreSome of the best moments are shared over food. That’s why we’re giving you 10,000 New World Dollars when you sign up to an independent apartment or townhouse by 30 September 2025.*
We’ll cover the grocery bills, so you can spend less time worrying about what’s in the trolley and more time enjoying who’s around the table.
And because life at Ryman means less home maintenance, you’ll have even more time for the things you love.
*Participating villages only, promotion terms and Clubcard terms and conditions apply.
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Mercy Gates Mt Roskill Intermediate School Denbigh Ave, Mt Roskill
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