Angela Dalton, a South Auckland councillor, is urging lawmakers to prioritise a proposed Bill addressing stalking and digital harassment after enduring cyberstalking herself.
She told state-funded media that the harassment damaged her reputation and influenced her decision to step down.
The Crimes Legislation (Stalking and Harassment) Amendment Bill, introduced in late 2024, seeks to expand the legal definition of stalking to include digital abuse, repeated surveillance, and unwanted contact.
Dalton, alongside Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ), highlighted the urgent need for stronger protections, particularly for women, children, and marginalised communities, who are disproportionately affected.
With studies linking stalking to physical violence, Dalton stresses that updated laws will provide essential safeguards, ensuring victims can seek justice without proving direct physical contact. LGNZ supports the Bill as a crucial step in protecting public officials and maintaining a safe democratic environment.
“Over the past year, I have been subjected to cyberstalking, which has damaged my reputation, relationships, and opportunities”, she said.
“I had no recourse for this, and it has been a major reason for my decision to step down from my current position.
“The Bill’s proposal to expand the legal definition of stalking and harassment is long overdue.”
LGNZ Chief Executive Susan Freeman-Greene said, “Some of the stories I hear of abuse and harassment are truly shocking – and it’s not just the elected members, it’s their families who endure it too. Everyone should be able to go to work and feel safe, and I know that’s not happening in local government right now.”
Image credit: Towfiqu Barbhuiya
