What does the Privacy Act aim to protect in New Zealand?

The Privacy Act aims to protect the privacy and personal information of individuals in New Zealand. This legislation establishes a framework for how personal data should be collected, stored, and used by organizations, ensuring that people's personal details are handled with care and respect. The act includes principles that require organizations to be transparent about their data practices, to collect only necessary information, and to give individuals rights over their own data, including access and correction rights. By focusing on the protection of personal information, the act supports individuals' rights to privacy, fostering trust between the public and organizations. This is fundamental in today's digital age where data breaches and misuse of information are significant concerns.

In contrast, the other choices pertain to different areas of law and governance. Natural resources are associated with environmental legislation and protection, employment agreements relate to labor laws and employment rights, and trade unions focus on collective bargaining and workers' rights. They do not align with the core function of the Privacy Act, which specifically addresses privacy and personal information.