'A good day to be a Kiwi': New Zealand legalises assisted dying

The ACT party, who introduced the bill to parliament, said the legislation allowed choice, control and compassion to those suffering.

"From today we will have a kinder, more humane and compassionate society," deputy leader Brooke van Velden said in a statement.

"A society should be judged by how it treats its most vulnerable. Our country will now give those who face terrible suffering at the end of their life compassion and choice. It's a good day to be a Kiwi."

But some say inequity has been raised with the law, with fears that assisted dying could be used to save healthcare costs and worsen discrimination against Maori and Pacific Islanders.

It is not yet clear how many New Zealanders may seek assisted dying, but the Ministry of Health estimates up to 950 people could apply each year, with up to 350 being assisted to die.

The law comes three weeks after a bill to legalise assisted dying was formally introduced to the NSW Parliament.

A similar bill was narrowly voted down in the upper house nearly four years ago, but advocates are optimistic this time will be different.

The reform would make NSW the last state in Australia to embrace voluntary assisted dying.

Readers seeking support and information about suicide can contact Lifeline 24 hours a day online and on 13 11 14. Other services include the Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467, Beyond Blue and Kids Helpline (for people aged five to 25) on 1800 55 1800.

The Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement can be contacted on 1800 642 066.