MBIE issues Request for Proposals for relay service provider

The NZ Relay Service supports people who are Deaf, Deafblind, hard of hearing, and people with speech communication difficulties to use the phone and communicate, using services such as video interpreting, text relay and captioned calling.

MBIE administers the service and manages the contract with the supplier. Towards the end of the contract term, MBIE reviews the service to ensure it keeps pace with technology and the needs of those who use it.

Feedback gathered during the recent public consultation helped inform the RFP requirements. MBIE heard that the service continues to be valued by the communities that use it, while also identifying opportunities for improvement, preferred technologies, and ways to ensure the service remains relevant, useful and safe in the future.

The RFP is available through the Government Electronic Tender Service (GETS). All interested and eligible parties can submit proposals and will be considered through the procurement process. An independent quality assurance process, undertaken by IQANZ, will support the evaluation and provider selection process.

New Zealand Telecommunications Relay Service(external link) — GETS - Government Electronic Tender Service

MBIE expects the successful provider to be finalised by May 2027. The selected provider will then prepare to deliver the service under a contract of up to 6 years.

The NZ Relay Service is funded through the Telecommunications Development Levy, which is paid by telecommunications providers. 

More information about the NZ Relay Service is available on MBIE’s website

Telecommunications Relay Service