Inquiry into eyewitness identification evidence

Te Kāhui Tātari Ture | Criminal Cases Review Commission Updates Inquiry into eyewitness identification evidence in Aotearoa

Te Kāhui Tātari Ture has refined the scope and timeline of its Inquiry into eyewitness identification evidence in Aotearoa New Zealand.  Building on earlier insights, the refined scope will now focus on legislative requirements for formal identification procedures and related police practices for obtaining visual identification evidence.  The Inquiry will assess whether Aotearoa is currently achieving best practice relating to collection of visual identification evidence (eyewitness identification) and identify any improvements required to enhance the reliability of identification evidence in criminal trials.

A final report will be published by June 2026, following consultation on draft findings and recommendations in April 2026. Any recommendations made in the Report will be designed to ensure the Inquiry delivers robust, practical recommendations intended to reduce the future risk of miscarriages of justice. 

Updated Terms of Reference December 2025