The Constitution Act 1986 is a key piece of legislation in New Zealand that serves as the foundation of the country's constitutional framework. It formally established the principles of parliamentary sovereignty and the rule of law, ensuring that the government operates within the bounds of the law. This act also clarified the relationship between the Parliament and the Crown, emphasizing the democratic nature of governance in New Zealand. One significant aspect of the Constitution Act 1986 is its role in repealing the earlier Constitution Act 1852, which had established the initial governance structure. The 1986 Act also includes provisions for the interpretation of laws and the protection of individual rights, reflecting the evolving nature of New Zealand's legal and political landscape.