The Human Rights Commission has released the fourth edition of its Statement on Religious Diversity, reaffirming the right of every person in Aotearoa New Zealand to practise their religion—or choose not to—free from discrimination, harassment and intimidation.
The updated statement will be officially launched at a special event on 6 July, following extensive consultation with religious and faith communities across the country.
Originally published in 2007, the Statement on Religious Diversity has become an important framework promoting mutual respect, freedom of belief and peaceful coexistence in one of the world’s increasingly diverse societies.
The latest edition comes at a time when some religious communities have reported experiencing increasing hostility, discrimination and targeted abuse.
The Human Rights Commission says the revised statement reinforces New Zealand’s long-standing commitment to protecting freedom of religion while recognising the importance of respecting people of all faiths, beliefs and worldviews.
As with previous editions, the statement includes a foreword from the Prime Minister, who acknowledges that New Zealand’s diverse religious communities contribute to making the country stronger, more welcoming and more inclusive.
The release also reflects changing patterns of belief across Aotearoa.
According to the 2023 Census, for the first time since religious affiliation began being recorded, 51.6 percent of New Zealanders identified as having no religion, while approximately 45 percent identified with a religious faith.
The Human Rights Commission says these figures highlight the importance of ensuring the rights of both people of faith and those with no religious affiliation are equally respected.
Race Relations Commissioner Dr Melissa Derby, who led the nationwide consultation process, says discussions with communities revealed that despite theological differences, many faith traditions share common values centred on compassion, service, peace and hope.
The Commission says recognising the dignity and humanity of every individual—regardless of religion, culture or personal beliefs—is fundamental to strengthening social cohesion and fostering respectful relationships.
For Māori, conversations around faith have long reflected a unique relationship between te ao Māori, Christianity and other belief systems. Many iwi and hapū have integrated Christian traditions alongside tikanga Māori and mātauranga Māori, while others continue to practise and revitalise traditional Māori spiritual beliefs. The updated statement recognises the importance of protecting this diversity while upholding the rights guaranteed under Te Tiriti o Waitangi and New Zealand’s human rights framework.
The Human Rights Commission says the revised statement is intended to encourage dialogue, reduce prejudice and promote understanding between communities at a time when misinformation, intolerance and social division are increasing globally.
By reaffirming the right of every person to live according to their beliefs without fear of discrimination or harassment, the Commission hopes the updated Statement on Religious Diversity will continue to strengthen Aotearoa as an inclusive and cohesive society where diversity is respected as a source of strength rather than division.
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