New Zealand has formally recognised English as one of its official languages after lawmakers approved a new bill in Parliament.
The legislation, introduced and backed by the nationalist New Zealand First Party, cleared its third and final reading in the House of Representatives on Thursday, July 30.
Although English is spoken by more than 95 per cent of the country’s population, it previously did not have official legal status. With the passage of the bill, English now joins Māori and New Zealand Sign Language as the nation’s officially recognised languages.
The bill sparked disagreement during parliamentary debate. Green Party lawmaker Tamatha Paul criticised the proposal, describing it as unnecessary and an irresponsible use of Parliament’s time. She argued that those promoting the legislation were fully aware it served little practical purpose.
Defending the measure, Member of Parliament Casey Costello said the law simply reflects New Zealand’s long-established reality. According to her, the legislation updates the country’s statute books and provides a clear legal statement recognising the status of English within New Zealand’s official language framework.