Parliament has unanimously passed a bill that gives more protection to victims of violent crime.
The bill, which passed its third and final reading on Tuesday night, allows judges to impose a court order banning violent offenders sentenced to more than two years in prison from coming into contact with their victims.
The judge may also prohibit the offender from contacting the victim in any way, or ban him or her from living or working in a particular area.
A victim can apply for the order at any time after sentencing.
Offenders who breach the non-contact order may be sent back to prison for up two years or fined up to $5000.
Justice Minister Judith Collins said the new order reinforces the Government's commitment to putting victims first.
