NZ First tries to introduce controversial toilet bill

New Zealand First presents its controversial Fair Access to Toilets Bill to Parliament today.

The bill would require all new publicly accessible non-domestic buildings to provide separate, clearly demarcated, unisex and single-sex bathrooms.

If approved, it would also introduce a fine “for anyone who uses a single-sex bathroom and is not the sex for which that bathroom has been designated.”

The vast majority of members’ bills may not become law, or even pass their first reading (the first of three votes to advance a bill), in a select committee.

A government can also veto a bill by its members if, in its opinion, the proposal would have “more than a minor impact” on the government’s public finances if it became law.

The concept of the bill was not included in the coalition agreement, and Prime Minister Christopher Luxon rejected the idea, describing it as “on another planet” last year.

In a statement, New Zealand First said it will “stop the growing trend” of co-ed healthcare spaces that “affect the privacy and dignity of everyone who uses these facilities”.

New Zealand First leader Winston Peters added: “New Zealand First has listened to New Zealanders and we know there is a silent majority who anticipate such legislation.”

“We have seen a similar move in the UK this month, with building regulations set to change later this year, making it mandatory to provide separate facilities for men and women in all new restaurants, bars, offices and shopping centres.”

“How the hell will they enforce it?” -Hipkins

Speaking about the bill today, Labor Party leader Chris Hipkins said almost everywhere there is a “variety” of toilet options available, including unisex toilets.

“Winston Peters is going to say that anyone who uses a unisex bathroom will be fined? I mean, how the hell are they going to police that, how the hell are they going to enforce it?”

“Surely there are more important things we should talk about.”

Asked about Luxon’s criticism of the bill, Hipkins said it could add to the “pile” of problems in the coalition government.

“(Luxon) doesn’t really seem to have any control over what Act and New Zealand First do, and indeed some National Party MPs do the same.”