Supplying films and video games to children
To a greater or lesser degree, censorship in New Zealand has always focused on protecting children from the harmful effects of certain types of material. Under the Classification Act, a publication (such as a film or video game) has to be judged to be injurious to the public good before it can be restricted or banned. In addition, under the Bill of Rights Act 1990, the Classification Office has to show in its decisions that any restriction is a justified limit on New Zealanders' freedom of expression.
Restricted films and games
Films and games that have been given a restricted classification have been carefully considered and judged to be harmful to people under the age of the restriction (for example, R13, R16 or R18). It is illegal for underage children to be shown such a film and the penalties for doing so are a maximum fine of $10,000 or a jail term of up to 3 months.
There are no exceptions to a restricted classification. Parental permission is not sufficient to override the classification, and restricted films and games cannot be made available to underage children, even in the home. The Classification Act specifies that it is no excuse that the parent, or cinema operator, or shop manager, did not know that it was a restricted publication. This is why bright red labels with clearly stated age-restrictions are affixed to film advertising, DVDs, and video games.
Some films have a classification allowing people under the age of a restriction to view a film if accompanied by a parent or guardian. These are separate classifications (RP13 and RP16) and are not used often.
Admission to restricted films in cinemas
If your teenager is going to a restricted (R-level) film, the cinema may require them to show proof-of-age ID. Although the Classification Act does not require cinemas to see formal ID before entry to restricted films, it does require they be sure they are only letting people into films who are legally allowed to see them. This has meant a number of cinemas now have a 'no ID, no film' policy for young people going to R-level films. Some cinemas do not consider that a parent vouching for a child's age is sufficient proof of age. Therefore, if your teenager is going to a restricted movie you might like to ring the cinema first and find out what ID is required. Proof of age is also required by many outlets for the purchase or hire of DVDs or games.
Unrestricted films
Unrestricted films (G, PG and M) are able to be watched by any person. It is important to remember that not all G or PG level films are made for children and many are aimed at an adult audience. These ratings are recommendations, andshould be read in combination with the descriptive note for the film. The Office hasreceived complaints about M rated films being shown to people under 16. This is not illegal, since the film is not restricted. However, our schools section has some suggestions for teachers when planning to show students M rated films thatparents and teachers might find useful. Learn more suggestions for teachers.
Descriptive Notes
Most film and game classifications will be accompanied by a descriptive note. This note informs audiences of content that might be of concern to some people. Parents are strongly advised to take these notes into consideration when choosing a film or game for their family. It is a legal requirement that film and game advertising includes the applicable descriptive note.
The most common descriptive notes are:
- violence
- sexual themes or content
- offensive language
If you believe that a classification and descriptive note may not provide you with sufficient information, you can search for more information on the film in your local newspapers, film reviews in the media or via movie database websites.
More information
If you are not sure whether a publication has been classified, contact the Information Unit.
More useful advice can be found on our Parents' page.