Human rights
In 1977 when the act was passed it had a limited focus. There were many protests by gay liberation groups that argued that the act should prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation.
For the law reformers, it was still only a partial victory. The second part of the bill, which would have removed discrimination on the basis of sexuality, was rejected. Opponents argued that homosexuality was not a human rights issue and that discrimination was fair and acceptable. It wasn't until the Human Rights Act was passed in 1993 that it became illegal in New Zealand to discriminate on the grounds of sexual orientation.
The Human Rights Act of 1993 protects people from being discriminated against in all areas of life. It protects people against racial and sexual discrimination and harassment. Discrimination based on sexuality in the armed forces became unlawful after the passing on the Human Rights Act.
The Homosexual Law Reform Act 1986 decriminalised homosexuality, but the armed forces were exempted from its provisions. Discrimination based on sexuality in the armed forces became unlawful after the passing of the Human Rights Act 1993.
Marriage equality bill
Other legislative barriers for homosexuals have been removed. In 2005 the Civil Unions Act allowed gay and lesbian couples to formalise their relationship. The debates over this legislation were not as bitter as those in 1985 and 1986, but they still show how strongly some New Zealanders feel against homosexuality. On August 19th 2013 same sex marriage became legal in New Zealand. If it wasn’t for all of the protest which occurred to gain the homosexual law reform there would not be marriage equality now. New Zealand become the 13th country in the world - and the first in the Asia-Pacific region - to allow same-sex couples to marry.
liberal democracy
New Zealand has a liberal democracy, this is when a government is based on individual’s
rights and freedom so they help make decisions that will affect them. New Zealand is very lucky to have this sort of government. In Russia in June 2013 an anti-gay bill was passed there are now very heavy fines for those who participate in gay pride rallies. Homosexuals here are criticized for being the reason for the declining birth rate. Homosexuality was decriminalized in Russia but there was still strong prejudice against homosexuals.
Rainbow room
One of Parliament’s select committee rooms has been dedicated the Rainbow Room to recognise gay, lesbian, bisexual and trans-gender New Zealanders and their contribution to society and Parliament.