New Zealand

APF membership

1996 (Founding Member)

Establishment

The New Zealand Human Rights Commission is an independent statutory body that administers the Human Rights Act 1993.

The Human Rights Amendment Act 2001 made several significant changes to the functions and powers of the Commission.

As part of these changes the Office of the Race Relations Conciliator was merged with the Commission and the role of Race Relations Commissioner was established. The role of Equal Employment Opportunities Commissioner was also established.

Role and functions

The Human Rights Commission works for a fair, safe and just society where diversity is valued, human rights are respected and everyone is able to live free from prejudice and discrimination.

The Commission's major statutory functions under the Human Rights Act 1993 are to:

• Advocate and promote respect for, and an understanding and appreciation of, human rights in New Zealand society
• Encourage the maintenance and development of harmonious relationships between individuals and among the diverse groups in New Zealand society
• Lead, evaluate, monitor, advise, analyse and liaise on equal employment opportunities
• Provide information to members of the public who have questions about discrimination and to facilitate resolution of disputes in the most efficient, informal, and cost-effective manner possible.

Members

Professor Paul Hunt
Chief Commissioner

Mr Meng Foon
Race Relations Commissioner

Dr Saunoamaali'i Karanina Sumeo
Equal Employment Opportunities Commissioner

Ms Paula Tesoriero
Disability Rights Commissioner