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World Day Against Trafficking in Persons (30 July) is a global call to action. At Immigration New Zealand (INZ), we work to prevent, detect, and disrupt this serious crime.
This year’s theme, ‘Trafficking in Persons is Organised Crime — End the Exploitation,’ highlights the role of organised criminal networks have in people trafficking.
Learn more about World Day Against Trafficking in Persons
World Day Against Trafficking in Persons — United Nations
Trafficking in persons involves the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harbouring or receipt of people through force, fraud, coercion or deception, with the aim of exploiting them. It can take many forms, including forced labour, sexual exploitation, forced criminality and domestic servitude.
Behind every victim is a network of people profiting from their exploitation. These criminal networks are sophisticated, global, and increasingly digital.
While often hidden, trafficking in persons can and does occur in New Zealand. INZ is committed to ensuring our immigration system does not enable exploitation and that victims are identified and supported. By recognising its presence and working together to prevent and disrupt trafficking and support survivors, we can combat this crime.
New Zealand’s commitment to combatting trafficking in persons
New Zealand is committed to combatting trafficking in persons through a whole-of-government approach. This includes:
- Prevention, detection, investigation, prosecution, enforcement, and victim support — all critical components of our national response.
- Coordination across national security and serious and organised crime frameworks, acknowledging that even actions not specifically labelled as anti-trafficking contribute to disrupting criminal networks.
Individuals at increased risk of trafficking are often vulnerable to a broader range of criminal harm. New Zealand’s response is designed to identify, prevent, and prosecute not only trafficking offences but also associated crimes such as exploitation, abuse, forced labour, and organised criminal activity — ensuring a holistic approach to protection and justice.
We also recognise the complexity of preventing and combatting this serious crime. We are committed to working with our partners across government and civil society to explore opportunities to strengthen our response to trafficking in persons.
INZ’s role in prevention and investigation
INZ plays a key role in New Zealand’s anti-trafficking efforts.
Identifying trafficking
Frontline staff, particularly at the border, are trained to help them recognise indicators of trafficking in persons. We also support the training of law enforcement officials to recognise suspected trafficking in the community.
When a report is made, we assess the information provided. Victims of trafficking are eligible for access to support services from the government including from the Ministry of Social Development, the health sector, and INZ.
Investigating suspected cases
New Zealand seeks to use all available powers to investigate suspected trafficking and hold offenders accountable. The Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment (MBIE) and New Zealand Police are jointly responsible for investigating allegations of trafficking, coordinating responses with a range of agencies.
When children are involved, Oranga Tamariki works closely with New Zealand Police or MBIE, depending on the circumstances, to ensure the child is safe and the best interests of the child are upheld.
Supporting suspected victims
Trafficking in persons is often hidden and complex, requiring a coordinated response across government and community services. We cannot, and do not, do this alone.
Every case is assessed individually, with victim safety a top priority. Every disclosure is approached with sensitivity and respect — acknowledging the courage of those who come forward.
Offshore prevention and capacity building
INZ works with international partners to help prevent people smuggling and trafficking in persons.
This includes placing liaison officers overseas to support local efforts through training and awareness activities. These initiatives focus on stopping serious cross-border crimes and strengthening regional cooperation to protect vulnerable people.
How you can help
Everyone has a role to play in stopping trafficking in persons. By learning to recognise the signs of exploitation, reporting concerns, and supporting victim-centred initiatives, you can help protect vulnerable individuals and contribute to a safer, more just Aotearoa New Zealand.
If you suspect someone may be a victim of trafficking in persons, please contact INZ or Crime Stoppers immediately.
Contact INZ:
Contact Crime Stoppers anonymously by phone or by using their secure online form:
