Government introduces bill to ban under-16s from social media

Monday 24 August 2026 · 2 outlets · 4 reports · updated Mon 24 Aug, 7:02pm

In this story Christopher Luxon, Labour Party, National Party, NZ First, Facebook, Instagram

The National-led Government has introduced legislation to ban children under 16 from using social media platforms. The bill's passage is uncertain as coalition partners ACT and NZ First oppose the measure, while Labour has not yet declared support.

How they headlined it

4h

3:21pm7:02pm

1. 1NewsMon 24 Aug, 3:21pm

   Seymour and Peters hit back as Luxon moves on under-16s social media ban (opens in new tab)

   • Luxon moves to ban under 16s from social media, but ACT, NZ First say no (opens in new tab) Mon 24 Aug, 3:21pm
2. StuffMon 24 Aug, 3:30pm

   Luxon moves to ban social media for under 16-year-olds (opens in new tab)

   • Social media giants oppose NZ Government’s under-16 ban plan (opens in new tab) Mon 24 Aug, 7:02pm