Powers of Detention and Search Flashcards
6 cards from real COA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Powers of Detention and Search flashcards as text
What duty does a security guard have after using force on a person?
Answer: Report the use of force to their employer and document the incident in detail
Any use of force must be documented in an incident report and reported to the employer. This supports accountability and enables review of whether the force was proportionate and lawful.
What is the difference between a 'hold' and an 'arrest' in the context of security guard actions?
Answer: A security guard may only conduct a citizen's arrest — informal 'holds' have no lawful basis unless arrest grounds exist
There is no lawful 'informal hold' concept in NZ law. If a security guard physically restrains a person, it must be under the legal framework of a citizen's arrest. Without that legal basis, the restraint is unlawful.
A security guard is conducting a consensual bag search at a venue entry point. The person consents but then becomes upset and withdraws consent mid-search. What must the security guard do?
Answer: Stop the search immediately — withdrawal of consent ends the authority for the search
Consent must be ongoing throughout a search. Withdrawal of consent ends the authority for the search and it must stop immediately. Continuing would be unlawful.
Under NZ law, what must a security guard tell a person at the moment they are being detained?
Answer: The reason for the detention and that they have the right to remain silent and to a lawyer
NZBORA requires that detained persons are informed of the reason for detention and their rights, including the right to silence and to a lawyer. This obligation exists from the moment of detention.
Is a security guard legally permitted to carry or use handcuffs or other restraints in New Zealand?
Answer: Only if authorised to do so under the terms of their licence and with appropriate training
Use of restraints by security guards is subject to specific authorisation and training requirements. Not all security licences authorise the use of restraints — the specific terms of the licence apply.
What should a security guard do if a detained person claims to have a medical emergency?
Answer: Take the claim seriously, provide first aid if trained, call emergency services immediately, and maintain duty of care
A detained person who claims a medical emergency must be treated seriously. Duty of care obligations require the guard to provide first aid if trained, call emergency services, and ensure the person receives necessary medical assistance.