Supported by Wanganui Deputy Mayor Hamish McDouall, Mr Emmett made a presentation to the Local Government and Environment select committee on February 12, which is currently considering the amendments to the Building Act.
"It was something Felicity was very passionate about. She expected to appear before the select committee herself, but the hearing was delayed by a year.
"Since she couldn't be there, I decided to do it instead."
Mr Emmett, who is disabled himself and has limited mobility, said he would have struggled without the support of Mr McDouall, who offered to attend the hearing with Mr Emmett.
"He has been so supportive."
Mr Emmett was nervous before the hearing, but the relaxed atmosphere of the select committee soon put him at ease.
"I felt okay, so I just stated my piece, and the members of the select committee asked me a few questions."
His arguments were backed up by members of the Earthquake Disability Leadership Group, who spoke of the difficulties disabled people in Christchurch were having with buildings being re-built without disabled access.
"I think we opened a few eyes."
Mr Emmett said his wife's petition initially struggled for numbers as the issue did not receive much media attention.
But after approaching TV3 current affairs show Campbell Live, which aired their story, the petition began to gather momentum.
Mr Emmett is now waiting to hear back from the select committee about their decision on the amendment, before a final decision is made by MPs.
Whatever the outcome, he is glad he made the trip to Wellington.
"I wanted to finish what Felicity started," he said.