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Social Services Minister Steve Maharey says he wants to repeal the law that gives parents a defence against assault charges when they physically discipline their children.
Section 59 of the Crimes Act says parents can use disciplinary force against their children if its reasonable.
An Auckland man was cleared of assault after he used a leather belt to discipline his seven-year-old stepson who is hyperactive.
Maharey says the law almost endorses hitting children and he hopes to have it repealed if Labour is elected for a second term.
But he says any change would have to be preceded by extensive public education.
Justice Minister Phil Goff does not favour a repeal and instead wants the term "reasonable force" more clearly defined to mean smacking with an open hand.
A cabinet paper looking at options for change has been deferred because of the election.
