Removing barriers to supplying toys in New Zealand
Updating outdated toy safety rules to cut duplication and lower costs
The issue
A toy supplier raised concerns through the Ministry for Regulation’s Red Tape Tipline about difficulties supplying products into New Zealand.
New Zealand’s toy safety regulations relied on a 2002 standard that has been updated multiple times internationally. While the supplier’s products already met recognised international standards, they would have needed additional testing to meet the outdated New Zealand requirement.
This created unnecessary cost and complexity, particularly for smaller or niche product lines.
What we did
The Ministry for Regulation worked with the Ministry for Business, Innovation and Employment, the Commerce Commission and other agencies to assess the issue and identify options to reduce unnecessary regulatory friction.
We analysed the differences between New Zealand’s requirements and those used in Australia, and considered alignment with recognised international standards.
The outcome
On our recommendation, the Government agreed to update the regulations to better align with Australia and recognise a wider range of international standards as valid pathways for compliance.
This reduces duplication by allowing suppliers to rely on testing already carried out for other markets.
Our modelling estimates this change could deliver a net benefit of up to $6.8 million over 10 years.
Why it matters
The change reduces unnecessary barriers for businesses while maintaining strong safety protections for children.
It also supports better access to a wider range of compliant toys in New Zealand, particularly where products are already available in markets like Australia, Europe and the United States.