The legislative ability to use biometrics (Part 2)
The new Act will enable the future collection and use of specified biometric information for identity verification purposes. It includes the ability to:
collect, store and use photographs, fingerprints and iris scans of foreign nationals and to verify their identity and check their character
use photographs of New Zealand citizens to verify their identity and confirm their citizenship.
The ability to share biometric information nationally and internationally in certain circumstances was enabled through the Supplementary Order Paper. The changes to the biometric provisions were made to ensure New Zealand has up-to-date and internationally comparable measures to address immigration and identity fraud.