Police will soon be able to order adults to leave public places for up to 24 hours, after legislation passed its final reading in Parliament.

The powers will cover rough sleeping, some begging, disorderly behaviour and people obstructing access to businesses.

Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith said the orders would give police an additional tool to address disruption in town and city centres.

“Businesses, residents and visitors are paying the price for unprecedented levels of disruption. Many are just trying to make a living, but have to face people camped outside their store, day in day out.”

The orders will apply to people aged 18 or older and require them to leave a specified area for a set period of up to 24 hours. A constable will specify a reasonable distance the person must move.

People issued an order for begging or rough sleeping will be allowed to return to the area, provided they do not engage in any behaviour prohibited by the legislation.

Police will be able to issue orders for begging that unreasonably interferes with the use or enjoyment of a public place, rough sleeping, or behaviour indicating an intention to inhabit a public place.

The powers will also cover disorderly, disruptive, threatening or intimidating behaviour, obstructing or impeding someone entering a business, and breaching the peace.

Goldsmith said the orders did not criminalise homelessness.

“Only people who refuse those orders will face prosecution. A move-on order is not a criminal charge.”

Orders will be issued in writing or electronically, depending on operational circumstances.

It is not yet known when the new powers would come into effect.