New Zealand Parliament to Debate Ban on Teen Social Media Use

New Zealand lawmakers are preparing to debate a bill that would restrict social media access for children under 16, marking a major step in the country’s push to address online harms among young people. The proposal, introduced by National Party MP Catherine Wedd, would require social media platforms to implement age verification systems similar to Australia’s pioneering legislation passed in 2024.

The bill, first submitted in May, was selected on Thursday for parliamentary consideration through the country’s ceremonial ballot process for members’ bills. While it has backing from the ruling National Party, coalition partners have yet to confirm their support, leaving its passage uncertain.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has voiced growing concern about the mental health impact of social media on teenagers, citing issues such as misinformation, cyberbullying, and body image pressure. A parliamentary committee is also studying the wider effects of online harm, with a full report expected in early 2026.

Civil liberties group PILLAR has criticized the proposal, warning that mandatory age checks could endanger privacy and limit online freedoms. Executive Director Nathan Seiuli called the measure “lazy policymaking” that fails to protect children effectively.