Red Tape Tipline Launched to Address Regulatory Burdens on New Zealanders

The Government’s broader objective is to remove barriers to productivity and restore confidence in New Zealand’s economy.

Minister for Regulation David Seymour has announced the launch of the Red Tape Tipline, a new initiative aimed at identifying and addressing the regulatory burdens faced by New Zealanders. The online portal is designed to gather submissions from the public, enabling individuals to share their experiences with excessive or unnecessary regulations.

“This is a platform for Kiwis to voice their red tape horror stories,” said Minister Seymour. “From tradies to teachers, and chefs to engineers, we want to hear how regulation is affecting you.”

The Cost of Red Tape

The regulatory burden on New Zealand’s economy is significant. According to a 2015 NZIER study, businesses spend approximately $5 billion annually—around 1.3% of GDP—complying with tax and regulatory requirements.

“Compliance with poor regulation doesn’t just drain money from the economy—it also wastes time and erodes the innovative, can-do Kiwi spirit,” said Seymour. “We need to tackle this culture of fear and paperwork that’s holding New Zealanders back.”

How the Tipline WorksThe Red Tape Tipline, managed by the Ministry for Regulation, allows anyone affected by excessive bureaucracy to submit feedback through an online portal. Submissions will be reviewed to identify regulations that need revision or removal, with priority given to those causing the most widespread impact.

“The Tipline is a tool for every New Zealander to contribute to regulatory reform,” Seymour explained. “Whether you're a farmer frustrated by endless paperwork or a small business owner struggling with complex compliance processes, we want to hear from you.”

Key Goals of the InitiativeThe Tipline aims to:

Highlight problematic regulations affecting individuals and businesses.

Inform future regulatory reviews and amendments.

Reduce unnecessary costs and restrictions on workers and businesses.

Foster a more efficient, productive environment for economic growth.

A Commitment to Change

The Government’s broader objective is to remove barriers to productivity and restore confidence in New Zealand’s economy. By addressing regulatory inefficiencies, the initiative aims to revive the country’s entrepreneurial spirit.

“We’re committed to making it easier for New Zealanders to work, save, and invest,” Seymour said. “The Red Tape Tipline is just one step toward restoring New Zealand’s ‘No. 8 wire’ attitude—turning frustration into solutions.”

Expansion and Next Steps

To ensure widespread participation, the Ministry plans to promote the Tipline through industry groups, local councils, and community organizations. Additionally, a quarterly report summarizing the most significant issues raised through the Tipline will be published to maintain transparency and accountability.

“By acting on the feedback we receive, we can prioritize the regulations that matter most to New Zealanders,” Seymour concluded. “Together, we can cut through the red tape and empower individuals and businesses to thrive.”