A new consultation report published by Classification Office - Te Mana Whakaatu No images? Click here 6 MAY 2025 SPECIAL EDITION NEWSLETTER Kia ora koutou Today we release our latest consultation report, highlighting that young people are seeing extreme content in their online lives. Many young people feel they're dealing with these challenges without guidance and the support they need. In recent years, parents, teachers, youth workers – and young people themselves – have consistently raised concerns about the impact of harmful content. It affects safety, mental wellbeing, and contributes to real-world harm. We heard this through our research into young people growing up with pornography, our joint research with Netsafe into the online influences on youth body image, and our literature review into online misogyny and violent extremism. This latest consultation further informs our classification work and the education and support work that we undertake. Participants talked about the importance of getting support when dealing with negative experiences online, but they worried about parents overreacting or imposing restrictions. Young people need open conversations and non-judgemental support. The consultation was with youth around Aotearoa between the ages of 12 - 25 about extreme content, and how they were seeing it. This consultation further informs the work of the Office which has a legislated mandate to regulate illegal or extremely harmful content as well as help New Zealand communities manage these issues by providing education and support. The report is available now for download, and a series of resources have been published to provide support and guidance for parents and caregivers. Aroha atu, aroha mai, tātou i a tātou — Chief Censor Caroline Flora #Mātakitahi #WatchTogether #KōreroTahi #TalkTogether Illustration credit: Mark Creative While their experiences don't speak for all young people, they're consistent with what we've heard in our previous work and offer valuable insight into how young people experience harm onlineKey insights include:
Content that Cross the Line: Conversations with young people about extremely harmful content online is available now What do we mean by 'extremely harmful content'?In the report we use the term 'extremely harmful content' as a working definition for video, images, text and other material that people see online that could potentially be classified as objectionable. some of the content discussed by young people in the consultation clearly fits this definition; graphic depictions of real-world violence, such as executions, mass shooting, suicide, and extreme cruelty towards animals. What is 'objectionable' content?In New Zealand, certain types of content - whether found online or offline - can be classified as 'objectionable', meaning it is illegal to view, share, create or possess. If content depicts or deals with things like sex, horror, crime, cruelty, or violence, in a way that would meet the statutory criteria for harm to the public then it can be classified as objectionable. Special consideration is given when determining a classification that includes torture, sexual violence, sexual activity involving children or young people, degrading or dehumanising conduct, the promotion of crime or acts of terrorism. Types of content that are always classified objectionable include anything that promotes or supports the sexual exploitation of children or young people, sexual violence, torture, or extreme violence. The classification system balances the need to protect New Zealanders from harm while uploading the right to freedom of expression. Resources for Parents and Caregivers, and Educators How do we talk with our kids about seeing harmful content online? What rangatahi tell us about seeing extreme content online What if my child searches for illegal material? Conversation starters about harmful content online
Need to talk? Helplines for support We understand that these topics could be confronting or upsetting for some readers, especially if they can personally relate to the information we have shared. If you or someone you know needs to talk:
The Classification Office - Te Mana Whakaatu is an independent Crown entity responsible for classifying material which may need to be restricted or banned. This can include films, books, video games and online content. The Office can restrict or ban content that promotes crime, terrorism or violence. The Office also conducts research and produces evidence-based resources to promote media literacy and enable New Zealanders to make informed choices about what they watch.
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