During the post-World War Two era, governments in New Zealand and in many other countries have introduced policies designed to achieve greater equality between ethnic groups. These have been variously referred to as ‘positive discrimination’, ‘preferential treatment’, ‘affirmative action’, ‘measures to ensure equality’ and ‘special measures’. This book considers the measurement of ethnicity and the causes of ethnic disadvantage, the nature and history of special measures in New Zealand, and the strengths and weaknesses of such measures. It concludes with reflections on the circumstances under which such measures are likely to be most effective, as well as politically acceptable.