27 Aug 2025
1 year ago
1370 views
The Government's Local Water Done Well legislation aims to provide safe, reliable, and financially sustainable water services to local communities across the country. The legislation focuses on ensuring financial sustainability, oversight, and accountability in water service delivery, with the Commerce Commission overseeing economic regulation to ensure fair pricing and quality infrastructure. Councils are encouraged to submit water services delivery plans that meet the requirements and provide flexibility to make arrangements best-suited for their communities, ultimately benefiting Kiwis with improved water services.
12 Aug 2025
1 year ago
2202 views
The Minister for Digitising Government addresses the Digital Identity New Zealand Hui Taumata 2025, highlighting the importance of digital identity in transforming how New Zealanders access services. The government has made significant progress in developing a modern digital identity system, including the launch of NZ Verify and the Government App. Collaboration between the public and private sectors is encouraged to ensure the successful implementation and use of digital identity services for all New Zealanders.
07 Aug 2025
1 year ago
1813 views
Ministers Seymour and Simpson have announced a Ministry for Regulation review to address the high costs and complexities of New Zealand's product labelling regulations, which hinder affordability and global competitiveness. The current system, comprising over 30 codes and standards, imposes unnecessary compliance burdens on businesses, leading to increased prices and limited wage growth. The review aims to streamline regulations, reduce compliance costs, and enhance Kiwi goods' competitiveness internationally, with a focus on benefiting both businesses and consumers by simplifying the labelling process.
28 Jul 2025
1 year ago
3514 views
Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Scott Simpson announced the axing of surcharges to benefit New Zealanders financially. The move aims to eliminate the hassle and unexpected costs shoppers face at the checkout. By banning surcharges for in-store payments by May 2026, consumers can shop confidently without being penalized for their payment method choice.
10 Jul 2025
1 year ago
2059 views
Important progress in the fight against online financial scams has been made with the launch of a new initiative between government, industry and consumer groups, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Scott Simpson says. “It is unacceptable that so many Kiwis are swindled by scammers every day,” Mr Simpson says. “Some reports suggest scams cost the economy up to $2 billion annually, and it is crucial we get on top of the problem.
19 Jun 2025
1 year ago
2627 views
Minister of Internal Affairs Brooke van Velden says the Department of Internal Affairs [the Department] has made significant progress in tackling scams in New Zealand, with a 62 per cent drop in reports of SMS scams in 2024 from 2023, following the Department’s investigations into scammers. The Department’s 2024 Digital Messaging Transparency Report, published this week, details some of the actions the Department has taken to catch people perpetrating scams, including by conducting search warrants and seizing equipment. “Scams cause serious financial and emotional harm, often preying on vulnerable people in our communities.
18 Jun 2025
1 year ago
2360 views
Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay and Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Scott Simpson have welcomed a new certification scheme, announced by the Prime Minister in Shanghai today, that unlocks access to China’s $200 million cosmetics and skincare market — a move that will drive stronger returns for New Zealand exporters and boost the economy. “This is a smart, practical step that removes a long-standing trade barrier and opens up valuable new channels for our exporters,” McClay says. “It means more high-quality, innovative New Zealand products on shelves in China - not just online, but in stores across one of the world’s fastest-growing consumer markets.