When was the Births, Deaths and Marriages Act passed?

The Births, Deaths and Marriages Act was passed in 2021, marking a significant update and revision to the legislation governing the registration of vital events in New Zealand. This act is critical for midwifery practice as it provides the legal framework for recording births, ensuring that vital statistics are accurately maintained and that individuals are recognized legally from the moment of birth. The passage of this act in 2021 reflects ongoing efforts to modernize and improve the registration processes related to births and deaths, facilitating better record-keeping, rights to identity, and related health services. Understanding the timing of this legislation is essential for midwives, as they must comply with current laws when registering the births they assist with.