The Department of Internal Affairs urges people and organisations to remain vigilant

22 March 2019

The Department of Internal Affairs has received a strong response from the public and organisations, such as internet service providers (ISPs), in relation to reducing the availability of footage of the Christchurch terrorist attack. However, we urge everyone to remain vigilant and to continue to report any objectionable material through our website.

“We’re thankful for all of the support we’ve received both within New Zealand, and internationally,” says Digital Safety Director, Jolene Armadoros.

“We’re working around the clock to stop footage of the Christchurch shooting incident from being circulated and we encourage everyone to report any links to this footage. We’re grateful to all of those who have reported it, but we need to keep going.”

The ongoing effort to stop the circulation of footage involves several organisations including law enforcement agencies, online platforms and Non-Government Organisations.

“The footage related to the attack has been classified as objectionable by the Office of Film and Literature Classification, therefore it is an offence under New Zealand law to possess, share and/or host it.”

“Please continue to report any links to us and the online platforms you see it on and, together, we will continue to try and prevent harm to people through seeing this video,” says Jolene.

You can help by encouraging your customers, friends or family members to:

• Report the footage to online platforms
  
• Make a complaint to the Department of Internal Affairs’ Censorship Compliance Team
  
• Delete the video and/or any footage of it
  
• Share this message.

The Chief Censor is currently examining the ‘manifesto’ to determine if it is objectionable under New Zealand law. The Chief Censor urges people not to read or share material that promotes extremist views.

How to make a complaint

Censorship – To report on instance of the footage of the Christchurch terror attack or If you are concerned that you have seen something that is objectionable under the Film, Videos and Publication Classification Act, make a complaint using the online form or by email censorship@dia.govt.nz.

Netsafe – Use the Netsafe form to report any online safety and security incident or challenge, including complaints under the Harmful Digital Communications Act.

New Zealand Police – The Police are encouraging anyone with information about the Christchurch shooting incident to report it.

For further support

If you or someone you know has viewed the video and are struggling with what you have seen please go to 1737 ‘Need to talk’ or free call or text 1737 or visit mental health advice. Other helplines that could be useful:

• Lifeline (open 24/7) – 0800 543 354
  
• Depression Helpline (open 24/7) – 0800 111 757
  
• Healthline (open 24/7) – 0800 611 116
  
• Samaritans (open 24/7) – 0800 726 666
  
• Suicide Crisis Helpline (open 24/7) – 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO). This is a service for people who may be thinking about suicide, or those who are concerned about family or friends.
  
• Youthline (open 24/7) – 08 00 376 633. You can also text 234 for free between 8am and midnight, or email talk@youthline.co.nz
  
• 0800 WHATSUP children's helpline – phone 0800 9428 787 between 1pm and 10pm on weekdays and from 3pm to 10pm on weekends. Online chat is available from 7pm to 10pm every day.
  
• Kidsline (open 24/7) – 0800 543 754. This service is for children aged 5 to 18.

Contact:
Media Desk
Te Tari Taiwhenua Department of Internal Affairs
Direct Dial: +64 27 535 8639
45 Pipitea Street | PO Box 805, Wellington 6140, New Zealand | www.dia.govt.nz