New Zealand First introduced the bill Tuesday, seeking to legally define “man” and “woman” based on biological sex. If passed, it would limit recognition of transgender identities under existing law.
The bill is unlikely to progress—it must first be drawn from a member’s ballot and win majority support.
Party leader and Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters said in a statement, “The need for legislation like this shows how far the deluded left has taken us as a society. But we are fighting back.”
The proposal comes days after the UK Supreme Court ruled that only biological women are protected as women under equality laws. The ruling drew backlash from trans rights groups but was supported by some lawmakers who said it clarified legal definitions.
Opposition Leader Chris Hipkins criticised the NZ bill, telling Stuff, “It’s typical populist politics… New Zealanders are struggling with the cost of living, job losses and a health system in crisis. This is not a priority.”
The bill would amend legislation that interprets legal terms across New Zealand law, including those relating to gender and relationships.
