The New Zealand Security Association (NZSA) has launched new security industry guidelines and supporting training to help security personnel use New Zealand’s enhanced citizen’s arrest powers lawfully, safely and responsibly.
He continued, “The New Zealand Security Association has developed the Good Practice Guideline and the associated Advanced Security Office (ASO)Training programme to directly address these factors. We have worked closely with key security industry stakeholders, government and law enforcement to develop guidelines and training that provide practical direction for security companies, frontline personnel, retailers, customers and site managers.”
The NZSA’s new Citizen’s Arrest, Detention, Restraint and Duty of Care Good Practice Guideline covers:
The guideline reinforces that citizen’s arrest is not a default response. Wherever possible, security personnel should prioritise observation, de-escalation, evidence gathering and early Police involvement.
New training supports safe and consistent practice
To support the release of the guideline, the NZSA has also introduced targeted training designed to help security personnel understand the law, assess rapidly changing situations and respond in a way that protects everyone involved.
The training places strong emphasis on decision-making, communication, de-escalation, proportionality, physical safety and the welfare of any person being detained.
Gary Morrison
CEO New Zealand Security Association
Mob: 021 1229606
gary@security.org.nz
www.security.org.nz
About the NZSA:
The New Zealand Security Association (NZSA) is the largest industry representative body for the security industry in New Zealand and represents over 85% of the industry by revenue. Its voluntary members include security providers ranging from large multi-nationals to sole traders and also includes individuals and companies who are not direct providers of security services but have an interest in the industry.
As the voice of the New Zealand Security Industry, the NZSA aims to support and promote a thriving security industry in New Zealand that operates professionally and ethically, is committed to the safety of its workers and continuous improvement, meets the needs of its stakeholders and provides reward, opportunity and personal development for those who work within it.
Media Release on 23 September 2026
Media Contact
Lucy Nichols, Membership & Content Manager, NZ Security Association
Phone: 027 292 0656
Website: https://security.org.nz/