Invasion of Privacy, collection of DNA samples, linking driver’s licence details with personal credit data, protesting at Parliament, wearing a turban or gang patch or burqa, granting name suppression… at the core of many news stories is an argument about civil rights, and yet how many New Zealanders could name exactly what rights they’re entitled to by law?
“There is a wealth of protection available in New Zealand law,” says leading human rights lawyer Tim McBride. “Individuals in this country are entitled to protection from abuse or discrimination in all areas of their life but knowing where the line is drawn in a given situation is often cause for heated media debate.”
McBride is the author of a book whose purpose is to give authoritative but accessible information on the civil rights available in this country. The New Zealand Civil Rights Handbook was first published in 1973 and according to McBride it “was designed to be able to fit into your back pocket.” The book is in its fourth edition now and changes in legislation over the nearly 40 years since it was first published are reflected in the 660 pages of the 2010 edition.
“Civil rights legislation has really moved forward, but it’s only useful if individuals understand what it is that they are entitled to.” says McBride. “There are a number of fundamental civil rights that generations of Kiwis have taken for granted that may not survive in any meaningful form for much longer, unless we advocate for its protection.”
This title has certainly stoood the test of time. I recall selling the first edition, it was much smaller than this chunky doorstopper, way back in the early 70's at Beattie & Forbes Bookshop in Napier.
Publication details:
New Zealand Civil Rights Handbook by Tim McBride is published by Craig Potton Publishing.
RRP $49.99 ISBN: 978 1 877333 86 6
About the author
Tim McBride is one of New Zealand’s foremost human rights lawyers. As an advocate, barrister, commentator and academic he has had an influential role in the evolution of human rights lawyering in this country. He has also been part of the establishment and development of many NGOs, including the Legal Information Service, the Environmental Law Centre and the Auckland Council for Civil Liberties.
He is currently chairperson of the Human Rights Foundation of Aotearoa New Zealand.
He is a regular commentator in the media on the field of civil rights and most recently on privacy issues, including surveillance. For more information visit: www.timmcbridelaw.co.nz
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