The Complaints Process Aotearoa New Zealand Protection against discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation Since 1 February 1994 discrimination based on sexual orientation has been unlawful under the Human Rights Act 1993.
Sexual orientation is defined as a heterosexual, homosexual, lesbian or bisexual orientation.
Relatives or associates are also protected against discrimination. Discrimination occurs when a person is treated unfairly or less favourably than another person in the same or similar circumstances. The discrimination is unlawful if it is based on one of the grounds and areas in the Human Rights Act 1993. This leaflet deals only with the ground of sexual orientation. The remaining grounds are discussed in Factsheet 4.