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Kia ora - Welcome to the Human Rights Commission

Our Vision: The Commission works for a fair, safe and just society, where diversity is valued and human rights are respected.

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Do you have a human rights enquiry or complaint?

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Race Relations

Our Vision: Relations between the diverse groups that make up New Zealand society are harmonious, based on equality, mutual respect, and a shared sense of belonging to Aotearora-New Zealand.

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Equal Employment Opportunities

Our Vision: All people in New Zealand have equal employment opportunities and access to decent and productive work.

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Human Rights and the Treaty of Waitangi

Our Vision: The Treaty relationship between the Crown and Tangata Whenua operates effectively at all levels for the protection of the rights of Tangata Whenua and the benefit of society as a whole.

Learn more about Te Mana I Waitangi

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Disabled People

Our Vision: Disabled people are respected for who they are and are able to participate fully in New Zealand society.

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International Human Rights

Our Vision: New Zealand's security and prospects for sustainable development are strengthened by national and global respect for international human rights law.

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Highlights

Happy New Year to celebrate the incoming Lunar year including greeting in English, Traditional Chinese and Simplified Chinese.

新年快乐！Happy New Year! 新年快樂！

The lunar New Year commences on 23 January with the Year of the Dragon welcomed in. Race Relations Commissioner Joris de Bres wishes all New Zealanders a happy and prosperous Year of the Dragon, especially those Asian New Zealanders for whom it is particularly significant. Find out more.

The Wider Journey – the rights of disabled people

People with disabilities face daily challenges in their lives because of the physical environment, in accessing information and in exercising their right to an independent vote. The Commission has produced The Wider Journey report which considers these issues and makes recommendations on how to improve accessibility for everyone. Feedback is invited on this draft discussion paper.

Structural discrimination

Inequalities persist in health, education and other economic and social measures. The Commission is seeking feedback on its consultation paper looking at structural discrimination (institutional racism).

Image of a uniformed nurse smiling into the camera.

Inquiry begins on EEO issues in the aged care sector

The Commission’s major inquiry into equal employment opportunity issues in the aged care sector is underway. The inquiry will consider workforce issues raised by employees and employers in the aged care sector. Starting in Hamilton, meetings and visits are scheduled throughout the country over the next four months.

For more information or find out how to submit your comments.

Enquiries and complaints

Unlawful discrimination is never OK. If you think you have been discriminated against, contact us.

Christchurch human rights clinics

Cantaburians have found it difficult dropping into our temporary office. To make things easier, the Commission’s running “clinics” to talk about human rights issues – come along, say hello and have a chat. Find out more about the session times.

Our Christchurch office is located at 9 Baigent Way, Middleton, Christchurch. For contact details, information and advice visit the Commission’s website.

Human Rights in New Zealand 2010

What would make a difference to poverty, inequality and discrimination? See the Commission’s report card on the state of human rights in New Zealand.

Newsletters

Keep up to date with the Commission’s work with our e-newsletters on media and diversity, religious diversity, refugees, disabled people, the transgender inquiry, Te mana i Waitangi (available in English and te reo Maori) and more.

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