The Regulatory Standards Bill has passed its third reading in Parliament, amid fierce debate and strong opposition. What happened: On 13 November, the Government’s long-sought Regulatory Standards Bill was approved by the coalition parties: ACT, National, and New Zealand First.
What the Bill does: The Bill establishes a set of “principles of responsible regulation” and creates a Regulatory Standards Board. This board will review future legislation and hold government to account by publishing reports when proposed or existing laws do not align with those principles.
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Criticism: There is significant backlash. Over 98 percent of public submissions reportedly opposed the Bill.
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Green MP Tamatha Paul said the Bill is “like a cockroach … we keep stamping it out but it just won’t die.”
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Te Pāti Māori co-leader Rawiri Waititi called it “an arson on constitutional protections,” warning the Bill could undermine Te Tiriti o Waitangi and the rights of Māori.
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Supporters’ view: ACT leader David Seymour, who championed the Bill, argues it brings more transparency and makes regulators accountable. He says it will help reveal the hidden “costs” of regulation, especially on property rights and individuals. Concerns from experts: Legal and public health experts warn that the Bill could weaken laws aimed at protecting health, the environment, and Te Tiriti rights by prioritising private interests.
When it takes effect: According to the legislation, parts of the Act will come into force on 1 January 2026, and all of it by 1 July 2026. Why it matters for Māori: Many in the Māori community see this Bill not just as a technical reform, but as a potential shift in constitutional power a risk to mana whenua, co-governance, and Te Tiriti-based protections.
In New Zealand, Royal assent is the final formal step for a bill to become law.
What Royal Assent Means
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Once a bill has passed its third reading in Parliament, it is sent to the Governor-General, who gives Royal assent on behalf of the King.
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Royal assent is essentially the King’s formal approval, but in practice it is a constitutional formality-New Zealand’s Governor-General acts on the advice of the Government.
What Happens After Assent
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The bill becomes an Act of Parliament.
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However, it may not take effect immediately.
An Act usually specifies:-
an immediate commencement,
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a future commencement date, or
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commencement by Order in Council (a Cabinet decision).
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Why It Matters
Royal assent is what legally transforms a bill into binding law. Without assent, a passed bill has no legal force.
In summary:
Royal assent = the final approval that turns a bill into an Act. It’s constitutionally required, ceremonial in practice, and usually granted automatically once Parliament has passed the bill.
