Under the Immigration Act 2009, the Minister of Immigration has the power to intervene in immigration cases, giving hope to those who do not meet the immigration criteria but have compelling humanitarian or public interest reasons to be granted a visa or permit. The Minister has broad discretion in deciding whether or not to intervene, and the decision is usually based on the individual circumstances of the case.
If the Minister decides to intervene, they may grant a visa or permit with conditions attached, or direct Immigration New Zealand to reconsider the applicant's case. It's important to note that ministerial intervention is not a substitute for meeting the immigration criteria and is only used in exceptional circumstances.