Crimes Act 1961, s 223
If you’re under 14 you can’t be charged with theft, and instead you’ll be dealt with under the child protection laws rather than by the criminal justice system. Oranga Tamariki / Ministry for Children (which has replaced Child, Youth and Family) may become involved. See the chapter “Dealing with Oranga Tamariki / Ministry for Children”.
If you’re 14, 15, 16 or 17, you can be charged with theft. But usually the police will just give you a warning or caution instead. If you are charged, you’ll be dealt with by a family group conference or by the Youth Court, or both (for information about the youth justice system, go to www.youthlaw.co.nz). If you’re 18 or older, you’ll be dealt with by the adult court system.