The Justice Minister's confirmed the Government aims to send a clear message to offenders as part of the latest legislation. 

The Government recently announced 'coward punches' will be treated as a new offence, giving offenders longer sentences.

The reform makes good on a National and NZ First coalition promise.

Paul Goldsmith says the Government's hoping to disincentivise these 'unacceptable' attacks.  

"We're going to send a very strong message from Parliament to the judiciary - that we expect serious consequences for serious crime."

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