Thank you to everyone who has supported and shared this petition. Public awareness continues to grow, and this issue remains firmly in focus.

There have been significant developments since this petition was launched.

In 2025, a High Court challenge (Wereta v Attorney-General) was brought against the New Zealand Department of Corrections. The case directly questions the legality of the Persons of Extreme Risk Unit (PERU) and associated regimes, including PERD and TNOC.

The claim raises serious concerns that these regimes involve prolonged isolation and treatment that may be inconsistent with the Corrections Act 2004 and fundamental human rights protections.

Importantly, the Court did not dismiss these issues. It determined that they are too complex and significant to resolve at an early stage, meaning the matter will proceed to a full hearing. The legality of these regimes therefore remains unresolved.

In parallel, the Office of the Ombudsman has described conditions within PERU as “cruel, inhuman and degrading.”

Despite these findings and ongoing legal scrutiny, these regimes continue to operate.

This petition reflects growing public concern about:

• Prolonged and potentially unlawful isolation practices

• Lack of transparency and independent oversight

• Restrictions on communication and access

• The broader human impact of these regimes

The purpose of this petition is to call for:

✔ Transparency

✔ Accountability

✔ Independent oversight

✔ Urgent review and reform

Public support is critical to ensuring these concerns are properly examined and addressed.

If you have already signed, thank you. Please continue sharing to increase visibility and support.

If you have not yet signed, you are encouraged to review the petition and consider supporting this call for reform.