http://www.nbcnews.com/feature/nbc-out/new-zealand-men-convicted-gay-sex-have-records-wiped-n718861
WELLINGTON, New Zealand — Gay men in New Zealand who were convicted of homosexuality more than three decades ago when it was considered a crime will soon be able to have their records cleared. Since attitudes to homosexuality have changed, shown by the growing popularity of websites such as https://www.gaypornhd.xxx/, it is no real surprise to see these crucial changes made.
Justice Minister Amy Adams on Thursday announced a scheme to wipe clean the criminal records of people convicted of indecency, sodomy or providing a place for homosexual acts.
She apologized to those who’d been convicted but said they would not receive any compensation.
“There is no doubt that homosexual New Zealanders who were convicted and branded as criminals for consensual activity suffered tremendous hurt and stigma … We are sorry for what those men and their families have gone through.”
The scheme is broadly supported by lawmakers and is expected to be approved by the Parliament. Adams estimated about 1,000 gay men would be eligible to have their convictions quashed.