Leaving children alone

In New Zealand it is against the law to leave children under 14 on their own without taking reasonable steps for their care and supervision.

What is 'reasonable' may vary depending on their age, the situation and how long they are alone. Parents must make sure that any child left alone is safe and in no danger.

It is never okay to leave a baby or young child alone — at home or anywhere else — even for a short time. When you can't be there yourself, make sure that your baby is being cared for by another responsible adult. 

Most children under 14 are not mature enough to be left without adult supervision for more than a short time, and should not be left alone on a regular basis.

If you're leaving an older child to care for a younger one, make sure they can deal with any situation that might arise, including emergencies.

Helpful tips

Before you leave an older child at home alone, ask yourself if they are:

• Mature and responsible enough to be left alone?
• Mature and responsible enough to look after a younger child?
• Happy and confident about being left alone?
• Safe?
• Ready to handle any problems?