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- Human trafficking and modern slavery
Overview
This page explains what human trafficking and modern slavery are, the signs someone might be at risk, and where to get help and support.
Human trafficking and modern slavery are serious crimes
Human trafficking and modern slavery are serious crimes where you may be deceived, pressured, controlled, threatened or forced into a situation where you are being taken advantage of for someone else’s benefit. It can make it difficult or unsafe for you to get help or leave the situation.
Understanding human trafficking
Human trafficking can happen when someone takes advantage of you by controlling where you live, work, or go, often using lies, pressure, threats, or other methods to control you.
People who experience trafficking may not always recognise what is happening to them as trafficking especially if the person causing harm is someone they know or trust.
Understanding modern slavery
Modern slavery is a broad term used to describe situations where a person is exploited and unable to leave or stop what they are being forced to do due to threats, pressure, deception, violence, debt, or abuse of power.
Modern slavery can include situations where you are:
- forced to work against your will
- threatened if you try to leave
- have your passport, identity documents, money or other important belongings taken away
- controlled through fear, debt, lies, or violence
- forced or intimidated into sexual services
- bought, sold, or traded like property.
Modern slavery can affect people of any age, gender, nationality, culture, or background.
Signs that you may be experiencing human trafficking or modern slavery
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Someone else controls your freedom
- you are not free to leave your work, home, or accommodation
- someone watches where you go or who you talk to
- you need permission from someone before leaving or making decisions
- you are afraid of what will happen if you try to leave.
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You are being threatened or forced
- someone threatens you, your family, or people you care about
- you are pressured to do things you do not want to do
- you are made to work or provide services against your will
- you have experienced violence, intimidation, or abuse.
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Your work is unfair or takes advantage of you
- you work very long hours with few or no breaks
- you are paid less than promised, paid very little, or not paid at all
- someone takes some or all of your wages
- you are not allowed to take sick leave, annual leave, or public holidays
- you are forced to work to repay a debt.
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Your identity documents are being controlled
- someone has taken your passport, visa, bank card, or identity documents
- you are not allowed to keep your own important papers
- you are told you will be reported to immigration if you complain or leave.
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You have been deceived
- you were promised one type of job, but were made to do different work
- you were given false information about pay, hours, living conditions, or your rights
- someone arranged your travel or employment and then changed the agreement when you arrived.
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You feel isolated
- you are not allowed to contact family or friends
- you cannot speak to people without someone listening
- you are prevented from attending school, community activities, or social events
- you feel alone and dependent on one person for everything.
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A child or young person is being exploited
- a child is being forced to work
- a child is being exploited for sexual purposes
- a child is being controlled, transported, or moved for someone else’s benefit
- adults are making decisions for the child that place them at risk of harm or exploitation.
If you think this may be happening to you
If you think you may be experiencing human trafficking or modern slavery, it is important to remember that what is happening is not your fault. You have the right to be safe and to make decisions about your life.
People who exploit others often use immigration status as a way to create fear and prevent you from asking for help. They may tell you that:
- you will be deported if you report them
- your visa will be cancelled
- immigration New Zealand will not believe you
- you have no rights because you are not a New Zealand citizen.
These threats are used to control and silence you. Migrant workers have legal rights and protections in New Zealand. Allegations of exploitation and trafficking are taken seriously. There are support organisations in Aotearoa New Zealand that are available to help you.
You can find more information about support organisations on this page: Supporting organisations.
Migrant Exploitation Protection Work Visa (MEPV)
If you have reported exploitation, you may be eligible for a Migrant Exploitation Protection Work Visa. This visa is designed to help workers leave an exploitative employer while remaining lawfully in New Zealand during an investigation.
This visa allows eligible workers to:
- leave an exploitative job without immediately losing their ability to work in New Zealand
- work for a different employer while their situation is being addressed
- remain in New Zealand lawfully for up to six months.
How to report your concerns
There are different organisations that may be able to help depending on your situation.
- NZ Police can help if you have been threatened, or believe a crime has been committed.
- Immigration NZ can provide information if you have concerns about your visa, immigration status trafficking or migrant exploitation.
- Employment NZ can help if your employer is treating you unfairly, withholding wages, making you work excessive hours, or exploiting you at work.
- Services and community organisations can provide practical information, advocacy, and help you understand your options.
- Lawyers and legal aid services can give independent advice about your rights and any legal protections that may be available to you.
You do not need to have proof of what has happened. If you are worried that something is not right, or you feel controlled, threatened, exploited, or trapped, you can talk to a support service or agency about your concerns.
Who can help
- NZ Police: New Zealand Police(external link)
- Immigration New Zealand: Get help for victims of people trafficking: Immigration New Zealand(external link)
- Employment New Zealand: About ethical and sustainable work practices: Employment New Zealand(external link)
Community Organisations
- Citizens Advice Bureau: Citizens Advice Bureau(external link)
- Victim Support: Manaaki Tāngata | Victim Support(external link)