How to report to police

You can report a crime even if it happened a long time ago. There is no time limit on when you can tell police about what happened to you.

Reporting a crime does not mean you have to make decisions about the investigation straight away. Police can explain your options and answer any questions you have.

If you are in immediate danger, call 111 and ask for police.

If you don’t need to report immediately you can use the police non-emergency contact line 105.  
 
If you have trouble hearing and talking on the phone, you can sign up for the 111 TXT | New Zealand Police(external link) service for emergencies.

You can report a crime by visiting your local police station and speaking with staff. Depending on the station and time of day, you may be able to speak with an officer immediately.

You may wish to call ahead before visiting, particularly if you live in a smaller community.

If you feel anxious about reporting, you can ask whether a support person can attend with you.

When you first report a crime, a police officer will ask for information about what happened. 
 
At this stage, you do not need to remember every detail. The purpose is to help police understand the situation and determine what action may be required. Police will usually:

• record the information you provide
• give you a case reference number
• explain what may happen next
• ask how you would like to be contacted
• discuss whether you wish to receive updates about the case
• send you a letter or a Police Acknowledgement Form (PAF)
• refer you to support services.  

They may also provide information about support services that may be available to you. 

Reporting a crime and giving a statement are often two separate steps. 

A statement is a detailed account of what happened, based on what you remember. This may happen later and may be taken by a different officer. 

When making a statement, try to tell police everything you remember about what happened. You will be given a copy of your statement. 
 
Police may record a video of you giving your statement. Police will video record the statements of child victims.   
 
Make sure you tell the police officer if:  

• you've left anything out of your statement
• you remember something later
• there’s a mistake in your statement
• your address or phone number change
• there are any dates that you can’t go to court.  

You may find it upsetting, stressful, or tiring to recall events. You may be able to have support person with you while you make the statement. 

Police keep a record of your statement as part of the investigation. If charges are filed and the case proceeds to court, your statement may be shared with the defence as part of the legal process.

You may be asked to give evidence in court about what you witnessed or experienced.

If this happens, you will be supported through the court process and can receive assistance from a Court Victim Advisor, who can explain what to expect and help answer questions.

• Road incidents: dial 555 for urgent, but not life-threatening, traffic issues.
• Online harm or scams: can be reported to Netsafe(external link)
• Accessibility: 111 TXT | New Zealand Police(external link) service is available for people with hearing or speech difficulties (registration required).  

Every report is different, and not all reports lead to the same outcome.
After receiving your report, Police may:

• assess the information provided
• ask you to provide a formal statement
• speak with witnesses or other people involved
• gather evidence
• identify and interview a suspect
• decide whether there is enough evidence to lay charges

Not every investigation result in charges being filed.

Police will make decisions based on the available evidence and the legal requirements of the case. You should be kept informed about significant developments and can ask your Officer in Charge how updates will be provided.

How to report a crime or incident | New Zealand Police(external link)

Reporting a crime can be emotionally challenging. Support services are available whether or not police investigate.
 
You do not have to navigate the process alone. Police can provide information about victim support services that may be able to assist you and your whānau throughout your journey. 

Find the right support service for you supporting organisations.