Laws in Aotearoa New Zealand

There are many laws in Aotearoa New Zealand that provide for the rights of children and young people.

For comprehensive advice on the law and the rights of young people, go to http://www.youthlaw.co.nz. YouthLaw is a free community law centre for children and young people, under the age of 25, in Aotearoa New Zealand. YouthLaw has a legal advice line: 0800 UTHLAW (884 529)

The following are important laws that affect children and young people and their rights.

• Human Rights Act 1993 - this protects people in New Zealand from discrimination on certain personal characterists in a number of areas of public life. That Act also prohibits sexual and racial harrassment and the excitement of racial disharmony.
•  Care of Children Act 2004 - this addresses the guardianship of children and resolution of disputes about arrangements for looking after children. Of note is the Act's regard for the best interests of the child.
  

You can also follow the links to download PDF files of the following Acts

• Children, Young Persons, and Their Families Act 1989 – this sets out how the law will deal with children and young people in need of care and protection and those who are alleged to have committed offences.
  
• Education Act 1989 – this provides for the enrolment and attendance of children and young people in school. Part 2 of the act deals with suspensions, exclusions and expulsions from school.
  
• New Zealand Bill of Rights Act 1990 (BORA) – contains the rights of citizens, including children and young people. Rights protected in the BORA include freedom of expression and association, freedom from discrimination and the right to a fair trial.
  

• Children’s Commissioner Act 2003 – gives special legal powers to the Children’s Commissioner to advocate for children, to promote their rights and to monitor services given to children in care.
  

Go the the website http://www.legislation.govt.nz to view this NZ government legislation online.