Privacy and Consent

Privacy

Everyone has the right to privacy. This means you have the right to keep your personal life, information, and belongings safe from people you don’t want to know your business.

Here's what that means:

  • No one can come into your home or read your mail without good reason.

  • You have the right to decide who can see your personal information, like medical records.

  • No one can spread lies about you to harm your reputation.

  • You can choose who you spend time with and how you live your life without interference.

Can privacy be limited? Yes, but only in certain situations

If your actions put others in danger or break the law, your right to privacy might be limited. For example, if you are suspected of a crime, the police might need to search your home or your phone records.

Overall, everyone has the right to privacy, but there are limits to protecting the safety and rights of others.

Click here for more information: Office of the Privacy Commissioner | Your privacy rights

Consent

What is consent?

Consent means saying ‘yes’ freely and willingly to something. You are giving your permission for something.

Here's what you need to know about consent:

It's about choice. You can say yes or no to anything, and no one can pressure you into doing something you don't want to do.

It needs to be clear. Both you and the other person need to understand what you're saying yes to.

It can be taken back. You (or someone else) can change your mind at any time, even if consent was given before – unless you have signed a contract for a certain period of time.

Consent in different situations

Online. You give consent when you agree to a website or app using your information, like your name or birthday.

Sharing information. You give consent when you allow someone, like a therapist, to share your information with others, like a doctor.

Touching. You must get consent before touching someone, like hugging, kissing, or having sex.

Important things to remember

You must be old enough to give consent. In New Zealand, you can legally consent to sex with another adult over 18 when you turn 18.

It's illegal to have sex with someone under 16. This is a serious crime with serious consequences.

Even if someone is over 16, there are special rules. For example, you can't have sex with someone who is 16 or 17 if you are in a position of authority over them, like their teacher or boss.

Consent is important because it protects everyone’s rights and safety. If you have any questions about consent, talk to a trusted adult. 


For more information and support on sexual consent

Advice for privacy and consent ONLINE

It can be hard knowing how to deal with everything that happens online. We have advice below for dealing with a range of situations from watching porn to sending and receiving nude pictures to bullying.