Law was changed upon the passing of the Marriage (Definition of Marriage) Amendment Act in 2013, which included the amendment under section 5 clarifying the meaning of marriage to "the union of 2 people, regardless of their sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity".
Several countries and jurisdictions have introduced laws that grant equal rights to LGBTQ+ couples, including marriage equality, civil unions, or domestic partnerships. Exception in relation to establishments for particular groups
(1) An educational establishment maintained wholly or principally for students of one sex, race, or religious belief, or for students with a particular disability, or for students in a particular age group, or the authority responsible for the control of any such establishment, does not commit a breach of section 57 by refusing to admit students of a different sex, race, or religious belief, or students not having that disability or not being in that age group
59.
How to combat homophobia involves not only punitive measures but also promoting acceptance and understanding through education and community engagement.
Policy Changes Promoting Inclusive Education
Inclusive education policies aim to create safe and affirming learning environments for LGBTQ+ students.
Workplace protections are particularly impactful, as they affirm the right of LGBTQ+ individuals to live without fear of bias or harassment. In 1998, an amendment bill was introduced making this exemption permanent; this was abandoned following a change of government in 1999. International pressure and advocacy can catalyze legal reforms, especially in regions where homophobia is deeply embedded culturally or legally.
The new Labour Government instead passed another amendment to apply the Act to government activities, and also to create a new ability for the courts to "declare" legislation inconsistent with the Act.
There is no explicit protection from discrimination based on gender identity/expression. Auckland Pride, held every February, is the country's largest.
Located nearly at the top of the North Island, the waters off the bay's 144 islands offer boundless opportunities for sailing, yachting, scuba diving, fishing and kayaking. This allows gender self-identification and means that people do not need to go through the Family Court to change their nominated sex/gender, and do not require evidence of medical treatment to do so either.
Some 30 wineries are based on Waiheke, giving it its "Island of Wine" nickname.