A new cross-sector initiative has been launched to improve New Zealand’s ability to prevent and respond to online financial scams.

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) today announced the reappointment of Dr John Small as Chair of the Commerce Commission. At the same time, MBIE has also confirmed associate member Stephen Ridgeway’s renewed cross-appointment to the Commission.

Changes were made to section 99(1A) of the Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance Act (CCCFA) in 2019, following a review of this provision. The changes are found in sections 95A and 95B of the CCCFA, which expressly enable a court (on application by the lender) to vary or remove the effect of section 99(1A).

The Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs is proactively releasing the titles of documents received from MBIE.

The Government is reviewing consumer credit law as part of a wider reform process for financial services. This section also includes information about previous reviews of consumer credit law.

MBIE is urging everyone to check any bathroom heaters they have and remove them if they are included in last year’s Serene heater recalls. This is due to a significant risk to lives and property.

We are working with the Department of Internal Affairs to advance the new direction for water services and policy based on Local Water Done Well.

The Government has introduced a bill that would establish a new economic regulation regime for local government water services suppliers.

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) and Maritime New Zealand are calling for New Zealanders to double check their lifejackets this summer. This is due to a fault found in an inflator mechanism which may result in jackets not inflating as expected.

Since 2009 there have been 6 deaths of young children in New Zealand due to cords in window coverings – 3 of which have occurred in the past 10 years.