New Zealand First is introducing its controversial Fair Access to Bathrooms Bill to Parliament today.
The bill would require all new non-domestic publicly accessible buildings provide separate, clearly demarcated, unisex and single sex bathrooms.
If passed, it would also introduce a fine, "for anyone who uses a single-sex toilet and is not of the sex for which that toilet has been designated".
The vast majority of members' bills may not make it to law — or even pass their first reading (the first of three votes to progress a bill), to select committee.
A government can also veto a members' bill, if, in that their view, the proposal would have "more than a minor impact" on the government's fiscals should it become law.
The concept of the bill was not included in the coalition agreement, with Prime Minister Christopher Luxon rejecting and describing the idea as "on another planet" last year.
In a statement, New Zealand First said it will "stop the growing trend" of mixed-sex toilet spaces which "impact the privacy and dignity of everyone utilising these facilities".
New Zealand First leader Winston Peters added: "New Zealand First has listened to New Zealanders and we know that there is a silent majority anticipating such legislation".
"We have seen a similar move in the United Kingdom this month, with building regulations due to change later this year, making it compulsory to provide separate facilities for men and women for all new restaurants, bars, offices and shopping centres."
'How on earth will they enforce it?' - Hipkins
Speaking on the bill today, Labour Party leader Chris Hipkins said in almost all places there are a "variety" of bathroom options available, including unisex bathrooms.
"Is Winston Peters going to say anyone using a unisex bathroom is going to be fined? I mean how on earth are they going to police that, how on earth are they going to enforce it.
"Surely, there are more important things we should be talking about?"
When asked about Luxon's criticism of the bill, Hipkins said it can be added to "the pile" of problems in the coalition government.
"[Luxon] doesn't seem to really have any control over what Act and New Zealand First - and in fact some National Party backbenchers get up to."
'Blatant attack on our transgender whānau' - Greens MP
Green Party MP and spokesperson for rainbow communities Kahurangi Carter told 1News the Deputy Prime Minister is "undermining the mana of rainbow people", who "deserve to be treated with respect and dignity".
"This Bill is a blatant attack on our transgender whānau. Time and time again, New Zealand First has shown that it is more than happy to spread fear and stoke division for political gain.
"The Green Party unequivocally stands against any legislation of this nature and will continue to stand up for our transgender community.
"Trans people deserve access to healthcare, housing, and to be safe in their communities like everyone else. Christopher Luxon will have to reflect on whether he is fit to continue showing up at Pride events if he chooses to remain affiliated to a party actively undermining Rainbow peoples."
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