05/07/2026
On 13-15 July the Professional Association for Transgender Health Aotearoa’s (PATHA) judicial review against the Minister of Health will be heard in the High Court. We’d like you to join us in the court room to support PATHA as they fight for our community.
PATHA has challenged the Minister of Health’s decision to ban reversible pubertal suppression/GnRH agonists for trans children as unlawful and discriminatory. In December 2025 interim orders were filed that allow prescribing to continue until the outcome of this hearing (PDF link).
Because one of the claims PATHA is bringing is that the ban is discriminatory under the Human Rights Act under the ground of s*x, which 2006 Crown Law and the Human Rights Commission has considered to include gender, it seems likely that this hearing will also determine that long-held Crown Law opinion.
PATHA’s submissions will be held on the Monday and first half of Tuesday. The other day and a half will be submissions from the Ministry of Health. You do not need to attend full days - just come when you can!
Wellington High Court
2 Molesworth St
10am Monday 13 July - 15 July
Room details will be available inside the court on the day
--- Some words about being a supporter inside the court room---
As with our appearance at the Human Rights Review Tribunal, we ask that those who attend court come prepared to respect the court’s traditions.
- This means standing for the judge, no talking while court is in session, and no using cellphones. We also ask that you try to minimise reactions, even when hearing distressing content.
- We recommend dressing like you are going to a job interview.
- The court will be wheelchair accessible, but access may be more challenging for others:
-- seats may be uncomfortable
-- fluorescent lighting is probably used
-- you can’t use your phone in the court room
-- Bring water and dress in layers for uncontrollable temperatures.
-- There will be security as you enter the court building that may include bag searches, x-rays and metal detectors.
-- You may enter or leave the court room at any time - please try to do so as quietly as possible.
-- We hope to have a space available for supporters to gather in, but will need to confirm this.
It is likely there will also be people present who support the ban on puberty blockers. Please be civil around court.
As we mentioned, it is likely these sessions will contain distressing material. Wellington Pride Festival committee members and other manaakitanga squad members will be around if you need a hug, hand squeeze or shoulder, but our first priority is to support PATHA and the legal team.
For more information and to be linked with other supporters, contact [email protected].
If you would like to support PATHA’s mahi but are unable to join us in court, you can donate to them on their website.
