From RNZ · RNZ | Te Reo Irirangi o Aotearoa · · 1m 10s
High Court overturns puberty blocker restrictions for gender-diverse youth
High Court voids New Zealand's rules banning puberty blockers for gender-diverse youth.
In brief
High Court voids New Zealand's rules banning puberty blockers for gender-diverse youth. New Zealand's High Court ruled government regulations restricting puberty blockers for gender-diverse youth unlawful, finding the rules discriminated against young people and failed proper consultation. Originally reported by RNZ.
High Court rules
The High Court found New Zealand's regulations banning new puberty blocker prescriptions for gender-diverse youth unlawful.
Government proposed restrictions
In 2025, the Government sought to introduce rules stopping doctors from prescribing puberty blockers for children with gender dysphoria.
Public consultation
The Ministry of Health conducted public consultation in 2024 on additional safety measures for puberty blockers in gender-diverse youth.
Public opposition
Most public submissions opposed further restrictions on puberty blocker prescriptions for gender-diverse youth.
Regulations implemented
In November 2025, the minister recommended regulations prohibiting new puberty blocker prescriptions for gender dysphoria or gender incongruence.
PATHA applied for review
PATHA applied for judicial review of the regulations, which halted enforcement pending court decision.
Court findings
The court found the regulations unlawfully discriminated against gender-diverse youth and failed adequate consultation.
Here's the gist
New Zealand's High Court ruled government regulations restricting puberty blockers for gender-diverse youth unlawful, finding the rules discriminated against young people and failed proper consultation.
