Criminal Record Question

[Todd_1977]

Hi All...Years ago, I stuffed up and ended up with a criminal conviction.  Thought it was all sorted but have found out there's a warrant in NZ (not for violence or anything like that). I have cruised a few times but not into NZ. Now,.obviously fixing it up before we go is the preferred option but if I can't, can authorities board the ship in NZ and remove me to get it sorted? Please answer if you know. I appreciate the help.  Regards  😊

[MBP&O2/O]

I would venture to suggest that the authorities can indeed board the ship. Certainly had similar incidents when visiting the USA and the authorities escorted someone from a British flagged ship.

It could be worth investigating further in case the offence is statute barred on a time limit?

[Charles4515]

When you are in New Zealand waters or docked in New Zealand you are in New Zealand and the authorities can board. Most countries check the passenger manifest sent to them after a shp sails that lists passengers who will be onboard. If they match your name to an outstanding warrant then they could board and arrest you. This has happened. You should get it fixed before you go.

[Todd_1977]

Thanks folks  😊

[mr walker]

good advice already given by other posters.

 

I recall reading of a case a few years ago where a NZ man who had been living in Australia, was detained by NZ authorities upon arrival in NZ on a cruise due to an outstanding matter in NZ. I remember his wife had the difficult/awkward decision of what to do - leave the ship with him or cruise on, on her own. It may have been that she didn't even know of the outstanding matter.

 

Best to sort out ahead of time if you can - as posted above it may even have expired by now.

[MMDown Under]

This would only be a problem for Aussies, because all other people from foreign countries have to apply for a visa to visit NZ

 

I feel for you, as I'm always a nervous wreck completing forms re my name, of which I've had a few.  That is why visas often take longer for women than men.  

[fishtaco]

New Zealand and Australia share all criminal information at a Federal level and some with GB but not necessarily at a local level although your name may be flagged on the passenger list so I would not take the chance.

 

USA and Canada share  Criminal information and  western countries share all criminal information for those of sex crimes child abuse and murder crimes/ charges.

There are differences in law and in common law a "Spent conviction" is classed as no conviction if a prison sentence was 5  years or less unless it is one of the above mentioned crimes.

 

If applying for ESTA (USA) Those with a "spent conviction" in a  common law country are within their rights to say NO to arrests charges and convictions questions on the ESTA.

 

Had to find this info for a family member who wanted to attend our Wedding in Vegas and managed to have a decent chat with Australian Federal police about the issues because an arrest or charge stays with you in USA  forever even if found not guilty or charges are dropped, They have no spent convictions.

[Todd_1977]

Thanks everyone. Mine is just a reparation question.  I called them today and have a few options.  

[fishtaco]

Good to know because it can get very complicated! I basically spent hours and hours trying to ensure a relatives travel that they couldn't be bothered to do themselves. Never again!