This is a
quick check for those wanting to sponsor a partner which states that you need to have lived together for 12+ months, so there is obviously a separate ruling for those who apply for a WP, which I must admit I've never heard of before. Thank you for pointing it out. It has always been set in stone that a) you can't get a WP without a job offer and b) you always need to have lived with your partner for the required 12 months. I wonder if this is a new change as the page was updated in November.
In this case, INZ appears to have altered the definition of
genuine and stable relationship which, it was always taken for granted, meant living together for 12 months. Perhaps they have finally got themselves a heart and realise that couples do need to find a way to be together in NZ. It will be a great relief to a lot of people although it somewhat undermines the reason for the previous restrictions i.e. to prevent unscrupulous partners from latching onto citizens or residents in order to gain NZ residency or citizenship and then disappearing, having got what they wanted.