People who watch child pornography on the internet will face new penalties under a law change the Government is planning.
Justice Minister Judith Collins says a bill will be introduced to Parliament that will make it an offence to view objectionable material on the internet, even if it is not downloaded or saved.
Ms Collins says indecent communications with children under the age of 16 will also be an offence.
She told Radio New Zealand's Checkpoint programme on Tuesday the bill will clarify existing laws.
"A lot of these relate to telephone usage, rather than to the online and verbal communication. We are bringing in an amendment to the Crimes Act, which will be punishable by up to three years' imprisonment. It's essentially grooming of young children for sexual activities."
Ms Collins says the Government will also increase the maximum penalties for the possession, distribution and production of child pornography. They will double from five to 10 years' jail.
Listen to Checkpoint interview with Judith Collins