New Zealand’s government has dismissed claims that it could restrict or ban virtual private networks (VPNs) as part of an under-16 social media ban. After reports surfaced suggesting VPN controls might be used to enforce the age-related measures, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Education Minister Erica Stanford publicly moved to rule out that approach. Luxon states that there is no plan to ban VPNs, describing the idea as something he rejects outright. The government’s response is framed as an effort to address concerns raised by the public and privacy advocates, who warn that limiting VPN availability could undermine users’ privacy and internet security.
Across coverage, the government’s position is consistent: it does not propose restricting VPNs in connection with the youth social media policy. Instead, officials indicate the current focus remains on implementing the age-related requirements without removing commonly used privacy tools. The rapid reversal highlights the sensitivity around online privacy and the role VPNs play for secure communication.
