Ministry for Regulation News – November 2026

A note from Gráinne Moss
Secretary for Regulation and Chief Executive

Last month we released our Annual Report for 2025/26, providing an opportunity to reflect on a year of significant progress. It highlights how we are helping to improve the quality of regulation across New Zealand, strengthen regulatory stewardship, and support reforms that make a practical difference for New Zealanders, businesses, and communities.

Our first Annual Report focused on establishing a new ministry and laying the foundations for improving New Zealand's regulatory system. This year's report shows what we're delivering on those foundations. We exceeded our target for regulatory reviews, saw strong uptake of our recommendations, and continued to support work across government to improve the quality of regulation.

While the Annual Report looks back on what we achieved over the past year, the updates below highlight some of the work currently underway to improve regulation in New Zealand. In this edition, you'll find updates on our latest regulatory review, the first publication from the Regulatory Standards Board, new resources to support regulatory capability, and other work aimed at strengthening New Zealand's regulatory system.

Building capability is also about creating opportunities for the next generation. Last month we hosted five secondary school students, four through the Strengthening Democracy programme, giving them first-hand experience of policy, regulatory work and life in the public service. Their enthusiasm and new perspectives reinforced the value of internship programmes, and why they're worth investing in across the public service. We are looking forward to welcoming our third group of summer interns later this month.

Ngā mihi nui
Gráinne Moss
Secretary for Regulation and Chief Executive
Ministry for Regulation

From establishment to impact – our 2025/26 Annual Report

Our Annual Report provides an overview of the work undertaken during 2025/26 to improve how regulation works for New Zealanders. It includes progress on regulatory reviews, support for policy and regulatory practitioners, and initiatives aimed at strengthening regulatory quality, capability, and stewardship across government.

Helping make the building system easier to navigate

Our Building Regulatory System Review is considering whether the current framework for building consent exemptions remains fit for purpose. The review is exploring opportunities to make the rules easier to understand and apply, including whether additional low-risk building work could be exempt from consenting requirements. Engagement with the sector is helping inform recommendations that will be provided to Ministers next year.

A shared language for better regulation

Our glossary of regulatory terms provides a consistent set of terms and definitions to support everyone working in the regulatory system. It serves as a practical reference for policymakers, regulators, and others interested in regulatory practice.

New resources for regulators

In addition to our new regulatory glossary, we've expanded our Resources Library with more than 40 new resources. The collection brings together practical guidance, frameworks, tools, and learning materials to support regulators, policymakers, and others working across New Zealand's regulatory system.

First inquiry published under the Regulatory Standards Act

The Regulatory Standards Board has released its first inquiry report, assessing the Local Authorities (Members' Interests) Act 1968 against the principles of responsible regulation. The report identifies concerns with the legislation's clarity, its impact on participation in local government, and whether it remains an effective and proportionate way to manage conflicts of interest.