Gang patches in Government and council owned property look set to be banned as the proposed law has its third and final reading in Parliament today.

The Prohibition of Gang Insignia Government Premises Bill will give police the power to arrest offenders and seize their insignia if they wear patches or colours in public spaces such as schools, swimming pools and Government buildings.

Gang patches will be banned in public owned buildings if the bill passes its third reading today.

National Rotorua MP Todd McClay originally sponsored the Prohibition of Gang Insignia Government Premises Bill, but passed the torch to fellow MP Mark Mitchell when he became a Minister on June 17.

Todd says gangs cause misery and harm and people feel intimidated by their presence.

'People feel intimidated by what they stand for. They feel intimidated every time they see them in their WINZ office, in council offices and in schools and hospitals around this country.”

Mark believes the law change will act as a deterrent and won't create more work for police officers responding to complaints about gang members in public places.

The bill was supported by National, Act, United Future, New Zealand First and Taurnaga Independent Brendan Horan at its second reading, but was opposed by Labour, Greens, Maori and Mana parties.

If passed, the law change will apply to 34 gangs identified in the legislation, including Hells Angels, Mongrel Mob, Black Power and Killerbeez.

It will also allow Police Minister Anne Tolley to identify an organisation as a gang.

People caught wearing gang insignia can have their patches or colours seized and if found guilty can face a $2000 fine.