The registration period starts on the day the registered person is released from prison into the community, or on the day they were sentenced to a non-custodial sentence and registered at the judge’s discretion.

The offender who is sentenced to imprisonment is recorded on the register when they are sentenced, and given notice that they will be required to report once they are released.

All registered offenders are required to provide a range of personal information to the Child Sex Offender Register.

An initial report

• They must provide an initial report within 72 hours (3 days) of their release from prison.
• If they receive a non-custodial sentence and are directed to be registered by a judge, this information must be provided within 72 hours (3 days) of being sentenced.
• The initial report covers a range of information including passport details, place of residence, work, car and identity information such as photographs and fingerprints.

Updating any changes

• They are required to update any change of their details within 48 hours (2 days) or 72 hours (3 days) of the change depending on the nature of what has changed.
• They are required to update at least 48 hours BEFORE they change where they are living or anticipate changes to details of children (or their caregivers) living with them.

An annual report

• They are required to update their information annually (that’s called a periodic report).

Travel

• They are required to advise the register of travel plans at least 48 hours (2 days) prior to travel within New Zealand or at least 7 days before travel overseas.

• Name and any aliases
• Date and place of birth
• Nationality
• Address details (including previous addresses)
• Details of any children living in their household
• Details of the caregiver of any children living in their household
• Phone and cell phone details
• Email addresses
• Internet access details
• Identification details, such as photos and records of any tattoos, scars or other distinguishing marks
• Passport and citizenship details
• Employment details (including details of the job, name of employer, address of workplace)
• Volunteer work details
• Education or training courses they attend or are enrolled in
• Vehicle details
• Details of clubs or organisations that they are involved with that have child membership or participation
• Travel plans (including details of children travelling or staying with them)

Only authorised personnel from Police and Corrections have direct access to the information on the register. There is no public access to information on the register.

Some other Government agencies (Ministry of Social Development, and Housing New Zealand, Department of Internal Affairs and Customs) may be given relevant information about registered individuals in the interests of public safety.

There is no public access to the register, and only authorised Police and Corrections staff have access to the information on the register.

If you are concerned that a child may be in danger contact your nearest Police station.