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Banned Video Games in New Zealand: Classification System & R18 Titles

New Zealand does not maintain a public "banned games" list. Instead, the Classification Office (Te Mana Whakaatu) rates games under the Films, Videos, and Publications Classification Act 1993. Games refused classification are effectively banned from sale/supply.

Classification Categories

Label	Age	Meaning
G	All	General
PG	All	Parental Guidance
M	15+	Mature (unrestricted but not recommended <15)
RP13 / RP16	13+ / 16+	Restricted to persons with parent/guardian
R13 / R16 / R18	13+ / 16+ / 18+	Restricted — illegal to supply to underage
Objectionable	—	Banned — possession/distribution illegal (extreme sexual violence, exploitation, terrorism)

Games Effectively Banned (Refused Classification / Objectionable)

Manhunt 2 (2007) — Initially banned (Objectionable). Later passed R18 after cuts (AUS version).
Reservoir Dogs (2006) — Banned (Objectionable). High-impact violence.
Postal 2 (2003) — Banned (Objectionable).
Soldier of Fortune (2000) — Banned (Objectionable) — later R18 on appeal.

Most modern games receive R18 (legal for 18+), not Objectionable.

Recent R18 Titles (Legal for Adults, Restricted for Minors)

Grand Theft Auto V, Mortal Kombat 1/11, Dead Island 2, Outlast 2, Agony, Hatred, Subverse.

How to Check a Specific Game

Visit classificationoffice.govt.nz → "Search the Register."
Enter title. View classification, date, cuts (if any).
Retailers must display label. Digital stores (Steam, PSN, Xbox, eShop) geo-block R18/Objectionable for NZ accounts.

Importing

Importing an Objectionable game = customs seizure + potential prosecution. Importing R18 game <18 = offense. Adults can import R18 for personal use.

Summary

No "banned list" per se. Check the Classification Register. Very few games are truly Objectionable (banned). Most controversial titles get R18.

Video Games