How do I reference New Zealand Legislation (acts of parliament/statutes)?
Acts are included in the reference list, in the correct alphabetical sequence. The full title of the Act is required, and this includes the date (there is no comma as it is part of the title). For example:
In-text citations
Use the name of the Act. If it has a long title, use the full title the first time you cite it, and a shortened form after that. For example:
Example—in-text citation
It is clear from the legislation that this should be carefully planned (Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992). If employers neglect to take this into account they could face legal action (Health and Safety Act 1992), with all the costs involved.
If you are using a specific section of an Act, this should be indicated. For example:
Example—in-text citation
Employers have a duty to provide a safe working environment for all employees (Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992, s. 6).
or
The Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 makes it clear that all employees must have training on the Act and understand their responsibility to improve safety in the workplace (s. 61).
Indicate multiple sections used as follows:
Example—in-text citation
Employers have a duty to provide a safe working environment for all employees (Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992, ss. 6-12).
When using part of an Act that appears in a legal book about an Act, you need to reference the book. For example:
Example—reference list entry
Companies Act 1993. (2013). New Zealand companies and securities legislation for students (2013 ed.). Auckland, New Zealand: CCH New Zealand.
