Capital punishment in New Zealand

Box, execution (AM 2001.21.3-6)

Capital punishment in New Zealand refers to the historical use of the death penalty as a legal punishment in New Zealand. The practice was officially abolished in 1961, making New Zealand one of the earlier countries to eliminate capital punishment.

History[edit | edit source]

Capital punishment was introduced to New Zealand during the colonial period, following British legal traditions. The first recorded execution in New Zealand took place in 1842. Over the years, various methods of execution were used, including hanging.

Early Legislation[edit | edit source]

The Crimes Act 1908 was one of the key pieces of legislation that governed the use of capital punishment in New Zealand. Under this act, the death penalty was primarily reserved for cases of murder and treason.

Abolition Movement[edit | edit source]

The movement to abolish capital punishment gained momentum in the mid-20th century. Influential figures and organizations, including the New Zealand Labour Party and various human rights groups, campaigned against the death penalty. Their efforts culminated in the Crimes Act 1961, which abolished capital punishment for all crimes.

Notable Cases[edit | edit source]

Several notable cases of capital punishment in New Zealand have been documented. One of the most famous is the case of Minnie Dean, the only woman to be executed in New Zealand. She was hanged in 1895 for the murder of infants in her care.

Public Opinion[edit | edit source]

Public opinion on capital punishment in New Zealand has varied over time. While there was significant support for the death penalty in the early 20th century, attitudes shifted considerably by the time of its abolition. Today, there is broad consensus against the reintroduction of capital punishment.

International Context[edit | edit source]

New Zealand's abolition of capital punishment aligns with a global trend towards the elimination of the death penalty. The country is a signatory to various international treaties that advocate for the abolition of capital punishment, including the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.