What we’re noticing: Media attention on sexual violence content is raising public awareness
Caitlin on May 19, 2026
Recent reporting about the scale of online communities sharing rape videos and instructions on how to drug and sexually assault partners has been confronting. For many, this coverage has brought something previously hidden into full view, and with that can come a sense of shock, anger, and even hopelessness.
Unfortunately, in our line of work this type of content is not new. We classify potentially objectionable publications in our daily mahi. We do this so that New Zealanders hopefully never come across it themselves.
In 2026 we are noticing that this material, and the behaviours behind it, are becoming more widely known, discussed, and reported on. What was once hidden in the darker corners of the internet is now entering public awareness and discourse.
Where to get help
Have you seen something online that upset, shocked or made you feel uncomfortable, and you’re not sure who to talk to?
Exposure to harmful or distressing content, whether online, in media, or in your community, can be challenging, especially for people who have experienced trauma or difficult life events.
If you’re unsure who to contact, a good starting point is Netsafe for online harm, or 1737 for mental health support or Youthline for rangatahi support. All three can guide you to the most appropriate service.
If you come across harmful, distressing, or illegal content online, it’s important to report it. We all have a role to play by not creating or sharing objectionable content, taking action when we see it to protect our own wellbeing and the wellbeing of others, and helping to hold offenders accountable through reporting.
Useful links:
How to report harmful or illegal online content in New Zealand
Where the law is clear
In New Zealand, the legal line is firm.
Most people understand that sexual violence is a serious crime. That includes situations where a person is unconscious or unable to consent.
Under the Films, Videos, and Publications Classification Act (FVPCA), it is against the law to create, possess, share, or even view content that promotes or supports sexual violence. This includes material that:
- Encourages or instructs people to commit sexual assault
- Normalises or glorifies rape
- Provides guidance on how to drug or harm others
Engaging with this content is not passive. It contributes to harm, and it can carry serious legal consequences.
Why awareness matters (even when it’s uncomfortable)
We are always mindful of the risk of amplifying harmful trends by highlighting them.
But awareness also plays an important role.
People need to know:
- Where the law says
- That this content is not just harmful — it is illegal
- What to do if they encounter it
Shining a light on these issues can feel overwhelming, but it also enables informed action.
What to do if you come across this content
If you encounter material that promotes or depicts sexual violence:
- Do not share or save it
- Report it through reporting channels
- Recognise that what you are seeing may involve real victims and causes ongoing harm
Responding with care and responsibility matters. This is not just “content” it is connected to real-world abuse.
If you or someone you know is affected, there are support services available. Taking a human, compassionate approach is critical in these situations.
Our role is part of a wider response
The Classification Office plays a specific role in addressing this harm. We:
- Assess and classify publications, including the most serious and harmful material
- Make determinations about what is objectionable under the law
- Provide guidance to the public about harmful content and its impacts
We are not an enforcement agency. Our role sits alongside others, including:
- Netsafe
- Department of Internal Affairs
- New Zealand Police
- New Zealand Customs Service
- Specialist sexual violence support services
Each plays a different part, from prevention and education, to enforcement and victim support.
A shared responsibility
This is difficult, distressing territory. But it is also an area where collective awareness and action matter. We are all members of our community.
Understanding the law, recognising harm, and knowing how to respond are all part of protecting individuals and communities.
The Classification Office is one piece of that puzzle, and we will continue to do our part.
Want to better understand what could be harmful or illegal content?
We have published detailed information about tough stuff to help people understand what is considered illegal in New Zealand:What is harmful or illegal content?
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