Latest fromLegislation
Plain smoke packets get go-ahead
New Zealand has become the second country in the world to approve plain cigarette packets.
Fibre takeup more important than prices - Adams
The lowest price of broadband access is less important than ensuring consumers move as quickly as possible to high-speed fibre-based services, says Amy Adams.
Fire review could hit homeowners
Homeowners could have to pay more in Fire Service levies under a proposed shake-up of the way the service is funded.
'Self-interest' drives OIA review
They are public offices carrying out public functions. The act applies to most other public agencies and there is no reason at all why it shouldn't apply to these.
South Korea moves to introduce covered bonds
South Korea's decision to allow the introduction of covered bonds will help to diversify the Asia-Pacific regional covered bond market.
McVicar stands by claim over gay bill
Sensible Sentencing Trust spokesman Garth McVicar is standing by his claim that legalising gay marriage could increase crime, despite a backlash on social media.
Collins backtracks on jail compo
Justice Minister Judith Collins has backtracked on a law change that would have ensured compensation for ill-treatment of prisoners by the state was used to benefit victims rather than being given to the inmates.
Grants purse increasing to $14m
Aucklanders' rates have given a $46 million boost to 10 rescue, safety, arts and cultural groups in the past four years and a further $14 million gift is proposed for the 2013-14 year.
Editorial: PPTA charter school ads over the top
Editorial: The charter schools proposal has not been so contentious that the Government would fear its exposure to criticism. Since the critics are mostly busy teachers the legislative calendar might have done them a favour,
No move towards work-hour limit
The Government has ignored a recommendation by the United Nations for legislation to dictate a maximum number of work hours to reduce the risk to workplace health and safety.
Neville Peat: Slow economy trampling environment
To disguise what it is doing, the Beehive has ordered the Ministry for the Environment to abandon the five-yearly State of the Environment round-up report, writes Neville Peat.
NZ workplace safety a 'national disgrace'
New Zealand's health and safety record has been labelled as 'woeful' and a 'national disgrace' by a consultant with two decades' experience in the sector.
Enforceable quad bike law needed
From time to time, there is an eruption of concern about the dangers posed by quad bikes.
One-time backwater fosters greater sense of belonging
On Saturdays, Hobart's Salamanca Place hosts a market visited by thousands of locals and tourists.
Forced marriage an 'emerging issue'
Government agencies are talking of an "emerging issue'' of forced marriage in NZ, but a Refugee Council spokesman is wary of public hysteria.
Locks block drink drivers
The first drink-drivers sentenced under new legislation will be eligible to install an alcohol interlock system for their vehicles from today.
Carparks set to tax employers
Draft legislation aimed at introducing fringe benefit taxes on staff carparks is broader than expected and contains some "nasty fish hooks to look out for".
Dr Elizabeth Rata: Treaty no longer symbol of national unity
I was surprised to read in Deborah Coddington's recent Herald column that the Treaty of Waitangi is New Zealand's founding document. Of course some New Zealanders mistakenly believe that is the case.
Peters to share Tauranga duties
New Zealand First representation for Tauranga will now be shared by leader Winston Peters and the party's other MPs after the expulsion of Brendan Horan.
Tree removal easier under new law
The Government's moves to permanently abolish tree protection rules for those not already named on district plans will be further strengthened, an expert says.
Editorial: Press freedom too important for politicians to regulate
Editorial: Newspapers around the world have been following Lord Justice Leveson's inquiry into the culture, practices and ethics of Britain's press with close interest.
Put NZ's health before big pharma
Leaked proposed provisions of the Trans Pacific Partnership Agreement could affect our ability to treat chronic diseases, writes Briar Mannering.
Gun bill passes third reading
A bill that clarifies the definition of military-style semi-automatic guns and places controls on the importation of airguns that look like real pistols has passed a third reading in Parliament today.
Timing of liquor law upsets bars
Bars, restaurants and liquor stores will be forced to move to new trading hours and tighter alcohol rules in their peak season.
Media: SPCA joins with Jackson
Peter Jackson is said to be enthusiastic about monitoring off-set conditions for animals used in film productions, writes John Drinnan.