Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has confirmed the government’s plan to introduce legislation before Christmas to ban under-16s from accessing social media, signalling his strong support for age verification requirements.
Luxon told state-funded media that Education Minister Erica Stanford is leading the work, with the first piece of legislation expected ahead of next year’s election. “We have restrictions on our kids in the physical world; we need restrictions in the virtual world,” Luxon said. “How you go about that is really important. The Australian model is of interest to us, and we’re looking closely at aligning with it.”
He added that a first version of the legislation would be introduced this year, but acknowledged it may need refinement over time. The government is reportedly open to cross-party collaboration, with Luxon suggesting he could work with Labour to ensure the bill passes.
Public reaction has been intense. Online commentator Holyhekatuiteka noted the contrast between a pro-ban campaign—supported by well-funded backers and running since May, attracting around 37,000 signatures—and a public petition opposing the measure that has gathered nearly 19,000 signatures in just two weeks. He argued that the rapid growth of the petition demonstrates strong grassroots opposition and raised concerns about the privacy risks of age verification systems, particularly if they involve biometric data similar to Australia’s upcoming model.

Click to view
The petition, hosted on the New Zealand Parliament website, calls for MPs to reject the proposed age-based social media restrictions. Those who are opposed to this globalist control creep promoted by bureaucrats and politicians under the guise of “safety” are urged to sign the petition here.
The proposed legislation would align New Zealand with Australia’s digital identity and online safety initiatives, which include strict age checks.
Daily Telegraph New Zealand (DTNZ) is an independent news website, first published in October 2021. - where this article was sourced.
He added that a first version of the legislation would be introduced this year, but acknowledged it may need refinement over time. The government is reportedly open to cross-party collaboration, with Luxon suggesting he could work with Labour to ensure the bill passes.
Public reaction has been intense. Online commentator Holyhekatuiteka noted the contrast between a pro-ban campaign—supported by well-funded backers and running since May, attracting around 37,000 signatures—and a public petition opposing the measure that has gathered nearly 19,000 signatures in just two weeks. He argued that the rapid growth of the petition demonstrates strong grassroots opposition and raised concerns about the privacy risks of age verification systems, particularly if they involve biometric data similar to Australia’s upcoming model.

Click to view
The petition, hosted on the New Zealand Parliament website, calls for MPs to reject the proposed age-based social media restrictions. Those who are opposed to this globalist control creep promoted by bureaucrats and politicians under the guise of “safety” are urged to sign the petition here.
The proposed legislation would align New Zealand with Australia’s digital identity and online safety initiatives, which include strict age checks.
Daily Telegraph New Zealand (DTNZ) is an independent news website, first published in October 2021. - where this article was sourced.

4 comments:
That's hopefully the final nail in Luxon's coffin. No more lending the nats my vote.
This is such a dumb move. I can't believe how bad Luxons Nats have become. I'm in a safe Labour seat and National won't even get my electorate vote. No chance on the party vote. ACT or NZF at this point.
What is it with Luxon that he jumps on bandwagons like this? The esafety commissar in AU is evil. What kids look at or do is a parental responsibility NOT a government one.
Social media is "designed" for teenagers - so this "ban" is a lost cause and will be a waste of time, money and effort.
But when has that ever-stopped NZ politicians from proceeding down foolhardy paths?
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