The New Zealand Government is expanding its clamp-and-seize trial after recovering more than $225,000 and impounding 115 vehicles from people who failed to pay their court fines.
Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith said the trial had proven highly effective in encouraging people to meet their court-ordered financial obligations.
“Between 9 July and 6 October, bailiffs scanned 67,536 number plates and identified 982 people with overdue court fines or reparations,” Mr Goldsmith said. “278 people paid on the spot, with another 127 establishing some form of payment arrangement. 115 people had their car seized and 45 had theirs clamped.”
The remaining cases either resulted in warnings being issued or no action being taken due to individual circumstances.
According to the minister, 16 seized vehicles have already been sold at auction, while another 52 are scheduled for sale. A further 31 people made payments to prevent their cars from being sold.
Expansion to Nationwide Rollout
The program initially used 10 number plate scanners across New Zealand, including at some roadside breath testing stations alongside police. As part of the permanent rollout, that number will increase to at least 39 scanners nationwide.
“We promised to find new and effective ways to force people to pay their court fines,” Mr Goldsmith said.
“The threat of clamping and vehicle seizures has proved a great success. Victims are our priority and we’re ensuring they receive what they’re owed.”
Focus on Victims and Accountability
Mr Goldsmith said the initiative aligns with the government’s goal of strengthening accountability and supporting victims of crime.
“Those who have suffered emotional harm or have had their property lost or damaged should not be left out of pocket. Putting victims at the heart of the justice system is key to restoring law and order,” he said.
“The message is simple: pay your court fines, or you will be walking home.”
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