1: Title
This Act is the Arms (Shooting Clubs, Shooting Ranges, and Other Matters) Amendment Act 2025.
2: Commencement
This Act comes into force on 29 June 2025. Section 2 editorial change 24 April 2025 sections 86(1) 87(m) and (q) Legislation Act 2019
3: Principal Act
This Act amends the Arms Act 1983 2025-06-29 Arms Act 1983
1: Shooting clubs and shooting ranges
4: Section 2 amended (Interpretation)
1: In section 2(1) shooting club shooting club
2: In section 2(1) non-pistol shooting club section 38A non-pistol shooting range section 38A pistol shooting club section 38A pistol shooting range section 38A range operator section 38A shooting range
5: Part 6 replaced
Replace Part 6
6: Shooting clubs and shooting ranges
38A: Interpretation
In this Part,— application for approval section 38D application for certification section 38S non-pistol shooting club non-pistol shooting range pistol shooting club pistol shooting range range operator range standing orders
a: describes the design of the shooting range; and
b: sets out the operational detail, and conditions of use, of the shooting range shooting activities
a: means activities that are carried out using a firearm or an airgun for the purpose of shooting at inanimate targets (whether fixed or moving); but
b: excludes—
i: paintball shooting; and
ii: airsoft shooting shooting club
a: act in accordance with a set of written rules; and
b: participate in, or intend to participate in, shooting activities on a regular basis shooting event
a: includes shooting activities; and
b: lasts for not more than 4 days, with the first day being the day the event commences for participants (who are not event organisers or staff) shooting range
a: means a facility (whether indoor or outdoor), or a designated area of land, used by a shooting club or members of the public for the primary purpose of carrying out shooting activities; and
b: includes any defence area (as that term is defined in section 2(1) of the Defence Act 1990 temporary non-pistol shooting range Pistol shooting clubs
38B: Pistol shooting club must have certificate of approval
1: A pistol shooting club must hold a certificate of approval issued by the Commissioner.
2: A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $10,000 if the person, without reasonable excuse, establishes or operates a pistol shooting club without the club holding a certificate of approval.
38C: Pistol shooting club must be incorporated society
A pistol shooting club may not hold a certificate of approval under section 38G
a: the Incorporated Societies Act 1908
b: the Incorporated Societies Act 2022
38D: Application for certificate of approval in respect of pistol shooting club
1: An application for a certificate of approval in respect of a pistol shooting club may be made only by a person who is authorised by the pistol shooting club to make the application on its behalf.
2: An application for approval must be made to the Commissioner in the manner prescribed by regulations made under this Act, and must—
a: be in a form approved by the Commissioner; and
b: be supported by any information and documents that are prescribed; and
c: be accompanied by the prescribed application fee (if any).
38E: Commissioner may make inquiries and request further information
On receipt of an application for approval, the Commissioner—
a: may make whatever inquiries the Commissioner considers necessary to determine whether the application should be granted; and
b: may request the applicant to provide any further information or documents that the Commissioner considers necessary to determine whether the application should be granted.
38F: Decision on application for certificate of approval
The Commissioner may grant an application for approval if the Commissioner is satisfied that the pistol shooting club—
a: will be using a certified pistol shooting range for its shooting activities; and
b: has rules relating to the safe operation of firearms and promotes the safe possession and use of firearms; and
c: is appropriately administered; and
d: is able to safely manage its shooting activities; and
e: has proper storage for any firearm or ammunition held at any of the club’s premises or at a certified pistol shooting range used by the club.
38G: Issue of certificate of approval
1: If the Commissioner grants an application for approval, the Commissioner must issue to the pistol shooting club a certificate of approval.
2: A certificate of approval may be granted subject to any conditions that the Commissioner considers appropriate.
38H: Duration of certificate of approval
A certificate of approval granted to a pistol shooting club continues until—
a: surrendered by the pistol shooting club; or
b: cancelled by the Commissioner.
38I: Cancellation of certificate of approval
1: The Commissioner must cancel a pistol shooting club’s certificate of approval if the Commissioner is satisfied that—
a: the pistol shooting club is not using a certified pistol shooting range for its shooting activities; or
b: the pistol shooting club is no longer carrying on its operations; or
c: the pistol shooting club no longer meets the requirements in section 38C or 38F
d: the pistol shooting club has failed to comply with an improvement notice issued under section 38XL
2: The Commissioner may cancel a shooting club’s certificate of approval if the Commissioner is satisfied that—
a: the shooting club has failed to comply with any conditions to which its certificate of approval is subject; or
b: the shooting club has failed to report any serious firearms-related safety incident; or
c: any activity of the shooting club has raised any reasonable concern about the safety of its members or the public.
38J: Annual reports
1: A pistol shooting club must, not later than 2 months after the close of each financial year, provide to the Commissioner an annual report on its operations for that year.
2: An annual report must include the particulars prescribed in regulations made under this Act.
3: In this section, financial year Non-pistol shooting clubs
38K: Non-pistol shooting club must be enrolled
1: A non-pistol shooting club must be enrolled.
2: A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $10,000 if the person, without reasonable excuse, establishes or operates a non-pistol shooting club without the club being enrolled.
38L: Non-pistol shooting club must be incorporated society in certain circumstances
1: If firearms are sold to persons on behalf of a non-pistol shooting club, the club may not be enrolled under section 38O
a: the Incorporated Societies Act 1908
b: the Incorporated Societies Act 2022
2: If ammunition is sold to persons on behalf of a non-pistol shooting club, the club may not be enrolled under section 38O
a: the Incorporated Societies Act 1908
b: the Incorporated Societies Act 2022
3: However, subsection (2) does not apply if ammunition is sold to persons on behalf of the non-pistol shooting club for use on the day of sale at a club shooting activity and the ammunition is—
a: used by the persons at the club shooting activity; or
b: stored on the premises of the club after the club shooting activity.
38M: Application for enrolment in respect of non-pistol shooting club
1: An application for enrolment in respect of a non-pistol shooting club must be made,—
a: if the non-pistol shooting club is a body corporate, by a person who is authorised to make the application; or
b: if the non-pistol shooting club is not a body corporate, by the club’s representative who is authorised by the club to make the application.
2: An application for enrolment must be made to the Commissioner in the manner prescribed by regulations made under this Act, and must—
a: be in a form approved by the Commissioner; and
b: be supported by any information and documents that are prescribed; and
c: be accompanied by the prescribed application fee (if any).
38N: Commissioner may make inquiries and request further information
On receipt of an application for enrolment from a non-pistol shooting club, the Commissioner may, for the purpose of determining whether the information provided is complete and correct,—
a: make whatever inquiries the Commissioner considers necessary; and
b: request the applicant to provide any further information or documents.
38O: Confirmation of enrolment
If the Commissioner is satisfied that an application is made in accordance with section 38M
a: place the name and details of the non-pistol shooting club on the roll of non-pistol shooting clubs; and
b: notify the non-pistol shooting club that it is enrolled and of the date of its enrolment.
38P: Commissioner to keep roll of non-pistol shooting clubs
The Commissioner must establish and maintain a roll of non-pistol shooting clubs.
38Q: Cancellation of enrolment
The Commissioner must cancel a non-pistol shooting club’s enrolment if—
a: the non-pistol shooting club requests the cancellation of its enrolment; or
b: the Commissioner is satisfied that the club is no longer carrying on its operations. Pistol shooting ranges
38R: Pistol shooting ranges must be certified
1: A person may not operate a pistol shooting range unless the shooting range is a certified pistol shooting range.
2: A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $10,000 if the person, without reasonable excuse, contravenes subsection (1).
38S: Application for certification of pistol shooting range
1: An application for certification of a pistol shooting range may be made,—
a: if the person who is proposing to operate the range is an individual, by that individual; or
b: if the person who is proposing to operate the range is a body corporate, by a person who is authorised to make the application; or
c: if the person who is proposing to operate the range is not an individual or a body corporate, by the person’s representative who is authorised by the person to make the application.
2: An application for certification must be made to the Commissioner in the manner prescribed by regulations made under this Act, and must—
a: be in a form approved by the Commissioner; and
b: be supported by any information and documents that are prescribed; and
c: be accompanied by the prescribed application fee (if any).
38T: Commissioner may make inquiries and request further information
On receipt of an application for certification, the Commissioner may—
a: make whatever inquiries the Commissioner considers necessary to determine whether the application should be granted; and
b: request the applicant to provide any further information or documents that the Commissioner considers necessary to determine whether the application should be granted.
38U: Decision on application to have pistol shooting range certified
The Commissioner may grant an application for certification if the Commissioner is satisfied that—
a: the pistol shooting range meets all required safety standards published by the Commissioner; and
b: all necessary territorial authority and regional council consents to operate the pistol shooting range have been obtained.
38V: Grant of certification
If the Commissioner grants an application for certification in respect of a pistol shooting range, the Commissioner must issue a certificate to the applicant.
38W: Certification granted subject to condition
1: A certificate granted under section 38V
a: holds a firearms licence; and
b: is appropriately trained in pistol shooting range safety management.
2: Certification granted under section 38V
a: maintenance of the shooting range:
b: public access to the shooting range:
c: restrictions on the types of firearms and ammunition that may be used at the shooting range:
d: competitions that may be conducted at the shooting range.
3: The operator of a certified pistol shooting range must request the Commissioner to review the certification of the range if it is intended that the operation of the range will depart from the conditions imposed by or under this section.
38X: Duration of certification
A certificate issued in respect of a pistol shooting range remains in force for 5 years after the date on which it is issued unless the certificate is sooner surrendered or cancelled.
38XA: Cancellation of certification
The Commissioner may cancel certification in respect of a pistol shooting range if the Commissioner is satisfied that—
a: the shooting range is no longer being operated as a pistol shooting range; or
b: the shooting range is not being operated with proper regard to individual or public safety; or
c: the range operator is not complying with any conditions imposed under section 38W
d: having regard to the matters specified in section 38U
e: the range operator has failed to comply with an improvement notice issued under section 38XL
38XB: Renewal of certification
1: A certificate granted under section 38V
2: Sections 38S to 38XA
3: A renewed certificate is to be treated for all purposes as a new certification granted under section 38V
4: If the circumstances of the shooting range have not changed significantly for 5 years, the applicant may initiate the renewal of the certification by using a form approved by the Commissioner instead of applying under section 38S Non-pistol shooting ranges
38XC: Non-pistol shooting ranges that are not temporary non-pistol shooting ranges must be enrolled
1: A person may not operate a non-pistol shooting range (that is not a temporary non-pistol shooting range) unless the shooting range is enrolled.
2: A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $10,000 if the person, without reasonable excuse, contravenes subsection (1).
38XD: Temporary non-pistol shooting ranges must be notified to Commissioner
1: The following persons may operate a temporary non-pistol shooting range:
a: a shooting club:
b: a member of a shooting club:
c: an operator of—
i: a pistol shooting range that is certified under section 38V
ii: a non-pistol shooting range that is enrolled under section 38XH
2: The operator of a temporary non-pistol shooting range must notify the Commissioner of the temporary non-pistol shooting range.
3: A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $10,000 if the person, without reasonable excuse, contravenes subsection (2).
38XE: Application for enrolment of non-pistol shooting range
1: An application for the enrolment of a non-pistol shooting range must be made,—
a: if the person who is proposing to operate the range is an individual, by that individual; or
b: if the person who is proposing to operate the range is a body corporate, by a person who is authorised to make the application; or
c: if the person who is proposing to operate the range is not an individual or a body corporate, by the person’s representative who is authorised by the person to make the application.
2: An application for enrolment must be made to the Commissioner in the manner prescribed by regulations made under this Act, and must—
a: be in a form approved by the Commissioner; and
b: include a declaration declaring that—
i: the non-pistol shooting range has range standing orders that have been approved by the association the range is affiliated with or the Police; and
ii: all necessary territorial authority and regional council consents to operate the non-pistol shooting range have been obtained; and
c: be supported by any information and documents that are prescribed; and
d: be accompanied by the prescribed application fee (if any).
38XF: Commissioner may make inquiries and request further information
On receipt of an application from an applicant for the enrolment of a non-pistol shooting range, the Commissioner may, for the purpose of determining whether the information is complete and correct,—
a: make whatever inquiries the Commissioner considers necessary; and
b: request the applicant to provide any further information or documents.
38XG: Decision on application to have non-pistol shooting range enrolled
The Commissioner must grant an application for the enrolment of a non-pistol shooting range if the Commissioner is satisfied that—
a: the application is made in accordance with section 38XE
b: all information provided in the application, and any information provided in response to a request under section 38XF(b)
38XH: Confirmation of enrolment
If the Commissioner grants an application for the enrolment of a non-pistol shooting range, the Commissioner must—
a: place the name and details of the non-pistol shooting range on the roll of non-pistol shooting ranges; and
b: notify the applicant that the non-pistol shooting range is enrolled and of the date of the enrolment.
38XI: Commissioner to keep roll of non-pistol shooting ranges
The Commissioner must establish and maintain a roll of non-pistol shooting ranges.
38XJ: Cancellation of enrolment
The Commissioner may cancel a non-pistol shooting range’s enrolment if—
a: the range operator requests the cancellation of the enrolment of the range; or
b: the Commissioner is satisfied that the range is no longer being operated as a non-pistol shooting range; or
c: the range is not being operated with proper regard to individual or public safety; or
d: the range operator has failed to comply with an improvement notice issued under section 38XL Compliance
38XK: Inspections of shooting clubs and shooting ranges
1: For the purpose of ensuring that a shooting club or shooting range is operated in accordance with this Act, a person who is a member of the Police and authorised in writing by the Commissioner may—
a: enter and inspect—
i: any shooting range (including any shooting club that is part of the range); and
ii: any place where the shooting club stores firearms or ammunition:
b: inspect, print, or copy documents that the person believes on reasonable grounds to be those of the shooting club or shooting range:
c: remove any hard copy documents that the person believes on reasonable grounds to be those of the shooting club or shooting range.
2: Unless there is a change of circumstances that may affect its safety, an inspection under subsection (1) may only be undertaken,—
a: in respect of a pistol shooting range, when the Commissioner is considering an application for—
i: certification; or
ii: renewal of its certification:
b: in respect of a non-pistol shooting range, when the Commissioner is considering an application for enrolment, and then at intervals of not less than 5 years.
3: A member of the Police must give at least 7 days’ notice of their intention to enter and inspect a venue of a shooting club or shooting range.
4: The provisions of Part 4 of the Search and Surveillance Act 2012 subpart 3
38XL: Improvement notices
1: This section applies if a member of the Police reasonably believes that—
a: a pistol shooting club is failing, is likely to fail, or has failed to comply with any conditions to which its certificate of approval is subject; or
b: a pistol shooting range is failing, is likely to fail, or has failed to comply with the condition to which its certification is subject; or
c: a shooting club or shooting range is contravening, is likely to contravene, or has contravened a provision of this Act or regulations made under this Act.
2: If this section applies, the member of the Police may issue an improvement notice to the shooting club or the range operator requiring the shooting club or range operator, within a reasonable period of time specified in the notice, to—
a: remedy the non-compliance or contravention; or
b: prevent a likely non-compliance or contravention from occurring.
38XM: Temporary suspension of pistol shooting club’s operations for non-compliance with improvement notice
1: A member of the Police may, by notice in writing to a pistol shooting club, temporarily suspend the operations of the shooting club if the member is satisfied that the shooting club has failed to comply with an improvement notice issued under section 38XL
2: A notice of temporary suspension must state—
a: the ground on which the notice is given; and
b: the date on which the suspension begins; and
c: that the suspension is to enable the Police to consider cancelling the pistol shooting club’s certificate of approval; and
d: that the suspension lasts until notice of the decision as to whether to cancel the certificate of approval is given to the pistol shooting club, but, if the notice is not given within 90 days after the suspension takes effect, the suspension ends with the close of that 90-day period.
38XN: Temporary suspension of shooting range’s operations for non-compliance with improvement notice
1: A member of the Police may, by notice in writing to the range operator, temporarily suspend the operations of the shooting range if the member is satisfied that the shooting range has failed to comply with an improvement notice issued under section 38XL
2: A notice of temporary suspension must state—
a: the ground on which the notice is given; and
b: the date on which the suspension begins.
3: In the case of a notice of temporary suspension issued to a pistol shooting range, the notice must also state—
a: that the suspension is to enable the Police to consider cancelling the shooting range’s certification on that ground; and
b: that the suspension lasts until notice of the decision as to whether to cancel the certification is given to the range operator, but, if the notice is not given within 90 days after the suspension takes effect, the suspension ends with the close of that 90-day period.
6: Section 62B amended (Right of appeal to District Court)
1: Replace section 62B(1)(a)(ix) and (x)
ix: a certificate of approval for a pistol shooting club under section 38G
x: certification of a shooting range under section 38V
xi: enrolment of a non-pistol shooting club under section 38O
xii: enrolment of a non-pistol shooting range under section 38XH
2: Replace section 62B(1)(b)(viii) and (ix)
viii: a certificate of approval for a pistol shooting club:
ix: certification of a shooting range:
x: enrolment of a non-pistol shooting club:
xi: enrolment of a non-pistol shooting range:
7: Section 74 amended (Regulations)
1: In regulation 74(1)(gb) shooting clubs pistol
2: Replace section 74(1)(gc) and (gd)
gc: prescribing the information and documents required to support an application under section 38D
gd: prescribing the information and documents required to support an application under section 38M
ge: prescribing the information and documents required to support an application under section 38S
gf: prescribing the information and documents required to support an application under section 38XE
8: Section 80 amended (Activities that may be subject to cost recovery)
Replace section 80(2)(a)(viii)
viii: processing any application for approval of a pistol shooting club or certification of a pistol shooting range:
viiia: processing any application for enrolment of a non-pistol shooting club or non-pistol shooting range:
9: Section 87 amended (Guidance notices)
Replace section 87(1)(d)
d: the approval of any pistol shooting club or certification of any pistol shooting range:
da: the enrolment of any non-pistol shooting club or non-pistol shooting range:
10: Schedule 1 amended
In Schedule 1
a: insert the Part set out in the Schedule
b: make all necessary consequential amendments.
2: Other matters
11: Section 2 amended (Interpretation)
In section 2(1) responsible Minister Regulation-making powers
12: Section 74 amended (Regulations)
1: Replace section 74(3) and (4)
3: Regulations under subsection (1)(pa) may be made only on the recommendation of the responsible Minister after being satisfied that the Secretary for Justice has—
a: consulted the Privacy Commissioner about the proposed regulations; and
b: complied with the consultation requirements in subsection (4).
4: Regulations may be made under this section only on the recommendation of the responsible Minister after being satisfied that the Secretary for Justice has—
a: consulted the Police; and
b: done everything reasonable to consult other persons or organisations (or representatives of those organisations) that appear to the Secretary for Justice to be affected or likely to be affected by the regulations, unless the responsible Minister is satisfied that in the circumstances it was not practicable to consult to that extent or to carry out any consultation.
2: In section 74(5) Minister responsible Minister
13: Section 74A amended (Order in Council relating to definitions of prohibited firearm and prohibited magazine, and declaring prohibited ammunition)
In section 74A(1) Minister of Police responsible Minister after being satisfied that the Secretary for Justice has consulted with the New Zealand Police
14: Section 74D amended (Regulations providing for transitional matters relating to Arms Legislation Act 2020)
In section 74D(1) Minister of Police responsible Minister Cost recovery
15: Section 80 amended (Activities that may be subject to cost recovery)
In section 80(1) Minister of Police responsible Minister
16: Section 81 amended (Criteria for cost recovery)
1: In section 81 Minister of Police responsible Minister
2: In section 81 the Minister the responsible Minister
17: Section 82 amended (Consultation)
Replace section 82(1)
1: The responsible Minister may recommend that regulations be made under section 86
18: Section 86 amended (Regulations relating to cost recovery)
In section 86(1) Minister of Police responsible Minister Arms Advisory Group
19: Section 88 amended (Arms Advisory Group)
1: In section 88(1) Minister of Police responsible Minister
2: In section 88(2) Minister responsible Minister
20: Section 89 amended (Operations of advisory group)
1: In section 89(3) Minister of Police responsible Minister
2: In section 89(4) Commissioner Secretary for Justice
21: Section 90 amended (Provisions relating to appointment of members of advisory group)
In section 90(2) and (4) Minister of Police responsible Minister
22: Section 91 amended (Removal of members of advisory group)
In section 91(1) Minister of Police responsible Minister Review of operation of Act
23: Section 96 amended (Review of this Act)
In section 96(1) Minister of Police responsible Minister


1: Title
This Act is the Dairy Industry Restructuring (Export Licences Allocation) Amendment Act 2025.
2: Commencement
This Act comes into force on 1 May 2025.
3: Principal Act
This Act amends the Dairy Industry Restructuring Act 2001 2025-05-01 Dairy Industry Restructuring Act 2001
1: Amendments relating to international trade with designated markets
4: Section 5 amended (Interpretation)
1: In section 5(1) allocation period
2: In section 5(1) eligible participant eligible participant
a: is eligible to hold an export licence; and
b: based on their export volume history, is entitled to receive a share of export licences (not including reserve export licences) that equates to a volume of 20 tonnes or more of the product for the quota year that the participant is applying for
3: In section 5(1) export licence section 26 and includes a reserve export licence
4: In section 5(1) eligible reserve participant
a: is eligible to hold an export licence; and
b: based on their export volume history, is one of the following:
i: a person who does not fall within the definition of eligible participant because they do not meet the criteria set out in paragraph (b)
ii: an eligible participant who is only entitled to receive a share of export licences (not including reserve export licences) that equates to a volume of less than 200 tonnes of the product for the quota year that the participant is applying for export volume history reserve export licence section 26AA reserve portion section 26AA Tariff heading total export volume history Inclusion of non-bovine dairy for export purposes
5: New section 20 inserted (Application of this subpart)
Before the cross-heading above section 21
20: Application of this subpart
In this subpart, any reference to dairy products includes—
a: dairy material extracted from any milking animal; and
b: any dairy material derived or processed from milk extracted from any milking animal. Allocation of export licences
6: Section 26 amended (Later allocation of export licences)
1: In the heading to section 26 Later allocation Allocation
2: In section 26(3) subsection (4) subsection (4) or section 27
7: New section 26AA inserted (Reserve export licences)
After section 26
26AA: Reserve export licences
1: In this section, the definition of export licence
2: The Governor-General may, by Order in Council made on the recommendation of the Minister, make regulations that reserve 10% of export licences per quota year for any 1 or more designated markets listed in Schedule 5A if the available export licences equate to a volume of 10,000 tonnes or more of product in that designated market.
3: Before making a recommendation under subsection (2)
a: there is demand for reserve export licences from eligible reserve participants; and
b: there is evidence that those persons will be able to use the reserve export licences; and
c: the proposal to reserve licences is consistent with any import licensing and other requirements in the designated market; and
d: the proposal to reserve licences is consistent with the purpose in section 21(1); and
e: consultation has been undertaken with current holders of export licences to—
i: assess the historical utilisation of their export licences; and
ii: ascertain the potential impact that reserving export licences will have on their business; and
iii: ascertain their views on the creation of a reserve portion.
4: Regulations made under this section are secondary legislation ( see Part 3 Legislation Act 2019 The following table is small in size and has 3 columns that are grouped under the heading Legislation Act 2019 requirements for secondary legislation made under this section. Legislation Act 2019 requirements for secondary legislation made under this section Publication PCO must publish it on the legislation website and notify it in the Gazette LA19 s 69(1)(c) Presentation The Minister must present it to the House of Representatives LA19 s 114 Disallowance It may be disallowed by the House of Representatives LA19 ss 115 116 This note is not part of the Act.
8: New section 27 inserted (Quota compliance programmes)
After section 26B
27: Quota compliance programmes
1: This section applies to eligible participants and eligible reserve participants who did not obtain an approved quota compliance programme under the Animal Products (Regulated Control Scheme—Dairy Export Quota Products) Regulations 2008, for any 1 or more of the 3 quota years immediately before the quota year that the participant is applying for and in which they were also allocated an export licence.
2: Before those participants can be allocated licences under section 26(3), they must submit a statutory declaration to the Minister or a person authorised by the Minister setting out—
a: the reasons why the participant did not obtain a quota compliance programme for each of the quota years they did not obtain one; and
b: the reasons why the participant considers they should still be allocated an export licence or licences for the upcoming quota year.
3: If the Minister receives a statutory declaration under subsection (2)
a: they have been allocated licences in at least 1 of the 3 previous quota years; and
b: they have not obtained an approved quota compliance programme for the corresponding quota year or years that they were allocated a licence; and
c: the Minister is satisfied that the failure to obtain a quota compliance programme was—
i: out of the participant’s control, for example,—
A: if the participant was not able to export their products for which they had been allocated licences due to severe weather events or natural disasters that impacted on domestic productions, or disruption in a destination market due to war; or
B: there was or is a delay to the receipt of a quota compliance programme, for example due to a lack or shortage of auditors; or
ii: for any other reason that the Minister is satisfied explains the participant's failure to obtain a quota compliance programme in the given quota year.
4: The Minister must provide written notice to the participant of their decision under subclause (3) Gazette clause 6 of Schedule 5B
5: However, in subsection (1) any 1 or more of the 3 quota years
9: Schedule 5B replaced
Replace Schedule 5B Schedule
2: Miscellaneous amendments
10: Section 27A amended (Increases or reductions in rights to export to designated markets)
1: In section 27A(2) and (3) an allocation period a quota year
2: In section 27A(5) allocation period quota year
11: Section 29A amended (Quota trade completed before trade at normal tariff)
In section 29A(5)(b) eligible participants and eligible reserve participants
12: Section 29G amended (Power to require information)
1: In section 29G(1) eligible participant or an employee or agent of an eligible participant eligible participant, eligible reserve participant, or an employee or agent of a participant
2: Replace section 29G(3)
3: An eligible participant, eligible reserve participant, or an employee or agent of a participant may not refuse to answer a question under subsection (1) on the ground that the answer would be likely to incriminate the eligible participant or eligible reserve participant.
3: In section 29G(4) eligible participant or eligible reserve participant
13: Section 29H amended (Power to audit milk solids collection data)
1: In the heading to section 29H milk solids collection data export volume history
2: In section 29H(1) milk solids collection data received from an eligible participant export volume history received from an eligible participant or eligible reserve participant
14: Section 31 amended (Offences)
1: In section 31(3) and is liable for the following, who provides a false declaration in relation to milk solids collection data contrary to and is liable on conviction for the following, who provides a false declaration in relation to the information or documents required under
2: In section 31(3)(b) or a term of imprisonment not exceeding 3 months, or both
15: Section 42 replaced (Disclosure of information)
Replace section 42
42: Disclosure of information
1: Subject to subsection (3)
a: the Ministry may share any relevant information that it collects or holds under any legislation with the New Zealand Customs Service; and
b: the New Zealand Customs Service may share any relevant information that it holds under any legislation with the Ministry; and
c: the Minister may share any relevant information that they collect or hold under any legislation with the Minister of Customs; and
d: the Minister of Customs may share any relevant information that they hold under any legislation with the Minister.
2: Without limiting subsection (1)
a: to allow the Ministry or Minister to assess and calculate export volume history and total export volume history in relation to the allocation of export licences:
b: to allow the Ministry or Minister to verify that an eligible participant or eligible reserve participant is providing correct information:
c: to allow the Minister to decide whether to recommend the making of secondary legislation under this subpart.
3: Information shared under subsection (1) (see
4: The Ministry and the New Zealand Customs Service must ensure that appropriate protections are or will be in place to maintain the confidentiality of information shared under this section.
16: Dairy Industry Restructuring (Reallocation of Licences) Order 2007 revoked
The Dairy Industry Restructuring (Reallocation of Licences) Order 2007 2025-05-01 Dairy Industry Restructuring (Reallocation of Licences) Order 2007


1: Title
This Act is the Social Workers Registration Amendment Act 2025.
2: Commencement
1: Sections 18 19
2: The rest of this Act comes into force on 30 March 2025. Section 2(2) editorial change 24 April 2025 sections 86(1) 87(m) Legislation Act 2019
3: Principal Act
This Act amends the Social Workers Registration Act 2003 2025-03-30 Social Workers Registration Act 2003 see s2(2) 2025-07-01 Social Workers Registration Act 2003 see s2(1) sections 18 and 19 come into force 1 July 2025
1: Substantive amendments
4: Section 3 amended (Purpose)
In section 3(b)(ii) consider complaints about social workers exercise the disciplinary powers over social workers conferred by this Act
5: Section 6 amended (Entitlement of New Zealand-qualified applicants to registration within scope of practice)
In section 6(1)(c)(ii) different various
6: Section 13 amended (Board may recognise practical experience in certain cases)
1: In section 13(1)(a) recognised New Zealand qualification prescribed qualification
2: In section 13(2) section 12 section 8F
7: Section 16 amended (Applications by certain people previously registered)
In section 16(2) sections 6, 7, and 12 to 15 sections 6, 7, 8F, and 13 to 15
8: Section 51 amended (Reporting of conditions affecting ability to practise as a social worker)
In section 51(1D)(c) allegation matter
9: Section 55 amended (Power to order medical examination)
In section 55(1) submit himself or herself for examination attend for medical examination
10: Section 57A amended (Interim suspension of registration or practising certificate or both or change to individual scope of practice)
1: In section 57A(2)(c) underway , or is reasonably contemplated,
2: Replace section 57A(4)
4: A direction under this section may be made—
a: for a period of not more than 10 working days from the date on which a copy of the direction is given to the social worker; and
b: for any further period or periods that are reasonable and necessary to allow the Board to satisfy itself of the matters referred to in section 58.
11: Section 58 amended (Revocation of suspension or change to individual scope of practice)
1: In section 58(1) may give the Registrar a direction to revoke a suspension imposed under section 57 or 57A if it is must give the Registrar a direction to revoke a suspension imposed under section 57 or 57A as soon as practicable after the Board is
2: In section 58(2) may give the Registrar a direction to revoke any change made to the individual scope of practice of the social worker under section 57 or 57A if it is must give the Registrar a direction to revoke any change made to the individual scope of practice of the social worker under section 57 or 57A as soon as practicable after the Board is
12: Section 71 amended (Determination of complaint or notice of conviction by professional conduct committee)
1: In section 71(1) it must determine whether the committee must make 1 or more of the following determinations
2: In section 71(2) and (3) its a
13: Section 73 amended (Conciliation and mediation)
In section 73(2) chairperson of the Tribunal Board
14: Section 99 amended (Functions of Board)
Replace section 99(1)(f)
f: to prescribe New Zealand educational qualifications for the purposes of this Act and monitor the provision and delivery of those qualifications:
15: Section 101 amended (Obtaining views of ethnic and cultural groups)
In section 101(b) other various
16: Section 114 amended (Social Workers Complaints and Disciplinary Tribunal established)
1: In the heading to section 114 Complaints and
2: In section 114 Complaints and
17: Section 116 replaced (Membership of Tribunal)
Replace section 116
116: Membership of Tribunal
1: The Tribunal comprises the following members appointed by the Minister:
a: a chairperson and 1 or more deputy chairpersons; and
b: at least 5 social workers to enable the Tribunal to be constituted; and
c: at least 1 layperson.
2: A person referred to in subsection (1)(a) must be a barrister or solicitor of the High Court of not less than 7 years’ practice, whether or not the person holds or has held judicial office.
3: A person referred to in subsection (1)(b) must not be a person whose registration or practising certificate is suspended.
4: A member of the Board is not eligible to be a member of the Tribunal.
18: Section 147A amended (Power to obtain information)
1: In section 147A(1) The chief executive may, if the chief executive The Board may, if it
2: In section 147A(1)(a), (b), and (c) department Board
3: In section 147A(3) chief executive must first ask the person in writing Board must first make a written request to the person to whom the information relates
4: Repeal section 147A(5)
19: Section 147B amended (Privilege)
In section 147B(1) and (2) department Board
2: Other amendments
20: Schedule 1AA amended
1: In Schedule 1AA, clause 2(3) section 12 section 8F
2: In Schedule 1AA
a: insert the Part set out in Schedule 1
b: make all necessary consequential amendments.
21: Schedule 1 amended
In Schedule 1, repeal clause 43
22: Consequential amendments
Amend the principal Act as set out in Schedule 2
23: Gender references updated
Amend the principal Act as set out in Schedule 3


1: Title
This Act is the Fisheries (International Fishing and Other Matters) Amendment Act 2025.
2: Commencement
This Act comes into force on 29 September 2025. Section 2 editorial change 24 April 2025 sections 86(1) 87(m) and (q) Legislation Act 2019
1: Amendments to Fisheries Act 1996
3: Principal Act
This Part amends the Fisheries Act 1996 2025-09-29 Fisheries Act 1996 Amendments to Part 1 (preliminary provisions)
4: Section 2 amended (Interpretation)
1: In section 2(1) beneficial owner section 113BA final IUU vessel list section 113B international fishing permit section 113H International Fishing Permit Register section 98(1)(c)
2: In section 2(1) commercial fisher
b: for the purposes of sections 72 and 75
i: a person who holds an international fishing permit for the high seas; and
ii: a person using a New Zealand ship who—
A: holds an international fishing permit for taking a highly migratory species in the national fisheries jurisdiction of a foreign country; and
B: in the judgement of the chief executive, holds a valid authority from the foreign country to take the highly migratory species in that national fisheries jurisdiction
3: In section 2(1)
a: high seas fishing permit
b: High Seas Permit Register Amendments to Part 4 (quota management system)
5: Section 32 amended (Criteria of eligibility to receive provisional catch history for quota management stock)
1: Replace section 32(1)(a)(iii)
iii: in the case of any highly migratory species outside New Zealand fisheries waters or tuna inside New Zealand fisheries waters, at any time during any applicable qualifying year, held the relevant authority to take the stock; or
2: After section 32(1)
1A: For the purposes of subsection (1)(a)(iii) relevant authority
a: a fishing permit issued under section 63 of the Fisheries Act 1983 section 91
b: in relation to any time before section 5 of the Fisheries (International Fishing and Other Matters) Amendment Act 2025
i: a high seas fishing permit under section 113H
ii: what in the judgement of the chief executive was a valid authority to take the stock using a New Zealand ship in the national fisheries jurisdiction of a foreign country:
c: in relation to any later time,—
i: an international fishing permit for the high seas that authorised the holder to take the stock; or
ii: both—
A: an international fishing permit for the national fisheries jurisdiction of a foreign country that authorised the holder to take the stock; and
B: what in the judgement of the chief executive was a valid authority under the law of that country to take the stock using a New Zealand ship in that national fisheries jurisdiction.
6: Section 32A amended (Application of Part 4 to estate of deceased fishing permit holder)
1: Replace section 32A(3)
3: Where this Part requires that a person, at the date of publication of a notice under section 18
2: In section 32A(4) a high seas fishing permit an international fishing permit
7: Section 35 amended (Notification of eligibility to receive provisional catch history)
Replace section 35(1)(b)
b: if the person is eligible to be allocated provisional catch history, determine whether, in the chief executive’s opinion, the person is eligible to be allocated quota under section 47
i: the person was a holder of a fishing permit as at the date of the publication of the notice declaring the stock to be subject to the quota management system; and
ii: the person is not an overseas person or, if an overseas person, either has obtained consent under the overseas investment fishing provisions to acquire provisional catch history or quota or is exempt from the requirement for that consent; and
8: Section 45 amended (Criteria of eligibility to receive quota)
1: Replace section 45(a)(i)
i: a holder of a relevant authority; or
2: Repeal section 45(a)(ii)
3: In section 45
2: In this section, relevant authority
a: a fishing permit:
b: an international fishing permit for the high seas:
c: both—
i: an international fishing permit for the national fisheries jurisdiction of a foreign country; and
ii: what in the judgement of the chief executive is a valid authority under the law of that country to fish using a New Zealand ship in that national fisheries jurisdiction.
9: Section 46 amended (Withholding of quota for non-payment of cost recovery levies or deemed values)
In section 46 high seas fishing permit an international fishing permit
10: Section 49A amended (Surrender of quota to Crown)
In section 49A high seas fishing permit international fishing permit
11: Section 51 amended (Rights of appeal)
1: In section 51(1)(b)(i) fishing permit or high seas fishing permit (or authorisation referred to in section 45(a)(i)) or controlled fishery licence relevant authority (as defined in section 32(1A)
2: Replace section 51(1)(b)(iv)
iv: a decision of the chief executive to the effect that the person is or is not eligible to be allocated quota under section 35(1)(b)(ii)(A) section 18
12: Section 76 amended (Catch to be counted against annual catch entitlement)
1: In section 76(1)(a) a high seas fishing permit an international fishing permit for the high seas
2: Replace section 76(1)(b)
b: was a person using a New Zealand ship who—
i: held an international fishing permit for taking highly migratory species in the national fisheries jurisdiction of a foreign country; and
ii: in the judgement of the chief executive, held a valid authority from the foreign country to fish against New Zealand’s national allocation of highly migratory species in that national fisheries jurisdiction. Amendments to Part 6 (access to fishery)
13: Section 94 amended (Right of review against decisions made under delegated authority)
1: In section 94 a fishing permit or high seas fishing permit a fishing permit or an international fishing permit
2: In section 94 the fishing permit or high seas fishing permit the fishing permit or international fishing permit
3: In section 94 designated by the chief executive (the reviewer
4: In section 94
2: A reviewer must make a decision on a review that relates to an international fishing permit by the end of the 40th working day after the chief executive receives the application for review.
3: If the review also relates to the application of section 113HA(6) section 113HA(7)(c)
4: The time limit under subsection (2) does not include the following periods (if any):
a: the period that—
i: starts when the reviewer requests further information from the applicant; and
ii: ends when the reviewer receives the information:
b: the period that—
i: starts when the reviewer starts to consult in accordance with section 113HA(7)(c)
ii: ends when the consultation is complete:
c: the period that—
i: starts when the reviewer provides the applicant with an opportunity to comment on a draft decision; and
ii: ends when the reviewer receives the applicant’s comments on the draft decision.
14: Section 98 amended (Registers)
In section 98(1)(c) and (4) High Seas Permit Register International Fishing Permit Register
15: Section 101A amended (Matters to be shown in High Seas Permit Register)
1: In the heading to section 101A High Seas Permit Register International Fishing Permit Register
2: In section 101A High Seas Permit Register International Fishing Permit Register
16: Section 102 amended (Access to registers)
In section 102(1) High Seas Permit Register International Fishing Permit Register
17: Section 113 amended (Possession of fish, etc, by vessels that are not New Zealand ships)
After section 113(1)(a)(ii)
iii: the vessel entered New Zealand fisheries waters to comply with a direction under section 113U(3) to bring the vessel to a port; or
18: Section 113A repealed (All fishing within foreign fishing jurisdiction to be authorised)
Repeal section 113A Amendments to Part 6A (high seas fishing)
19: Part 6A heading replaced
Replace the Part 6A
6A: International fishing
20: Section 113B amended (Interpretation)
1: In section 113B beneficial owner section 113BA final IUU vessel list
a: identifies vessels that a global, regional, or subregional fisheries organisation or arrangement determines have been used to carry out or assist IUU fishing; and
b: has been adopted by the global, regional, or subregional fisheries organisation or arrangement as the final version of the list; and
c: is published on, or available via a link that is published on, an Internet site maintained by or on behalf of the Ministry IUU fishing section 113BB notified global, regional, or subregional fisheries organisation or arrangement section 113C ship without nationality
a: is not registered in, or otherwise entitled to fly the flag or display the marks of registry of, any State; or
b: sails under the flags of 2 or more States, or under the flags of a State, using them according to convenience undermine the effectiveness of international conservation and management measures section 113BC
2: In section 113B foreign high seas inspector global, regional, or subregional fisheries organisation or arrangement notified
3: In section 113B global, regional, or subregional fisheries organisation or arrangement global, regional, or subregional fisheries organisation or arrangement
4: In section 113B international conservation and management measures international conservation and management measures
21: New sections 113BA to 113BC inserted
After section 113B
113BA: Meaning of beneficial owner
1: In this Part, beneficial owner
a: if the vessel is owned by an unlisted company, a person who directly or indirectly owns or controls—
i: at least 25% of the ordinary shares in the company; or
ii: shares that in aggregate carry the right to exercise or control the exercise of at least 25% of the voting power at a meeting of the company:
b: if the vessel is owned by a body corporate other than a company, a person who directly or indirectly has the right to exercise or control the exercise of at least 25% of the voting power at a meeting of the body corporate:
c: if the vessel is partnership property, a person who directly or indirectly—
i: has a beneficial interest in or entitlement to at least 25% of the partnership’s income or assets; or
ii: has the right to exercise or control the exercise of at least 25% of the voting power at a meeting of the partnership:
d: if the vessel is trust property, a person who directly or indirectly—
i: has a beneficial interest in or entitlement to at least 25% of the trust property of the trust; or
ii: controls the trust:
e: in any other case, a person who has effective ownership or control of the vessel (other than by being the vessel’s owner, operator, or master). Meaning of unlisted company
2: For the purposes of subsection (1)(a), an unlisted company section 2(1) of the Companies Act 1993 Meaning of control of trust
3: For the purposes of subsection (1)(d)(ii), a person controls
a: dispose of, advance, lend, invest, pay, or apply trust property:
b: vary or terminate the trust:
c: add or remove a person as a beneficiary or to or from a class of beneficiaries:
d: appoint or remove trustees or give another person control over the trust:
e: direct, withhold consent to, or veto the exercise of, a power referred to in paragraphs (a) to (d). Exceptions
4: Neither a court of law nor the Crown is considered to—
a: control a trust as the result of having a power referred to in subsection (3); or
b: have effective control of a vessel as described in subsection (1)(e) as the result of having any power in relation to the vessel.
5: A person under the age of 18 years is not considered to be a beneficial owner of a vessel in any circumstances.
113BB: Meaning of IUU fishing
1: In this Part, IUU fishing
a: is illegal, unreported, or unregulated, as those terms are defined in subsections (2) to (4); or
b: otherwise comes within the definition of IUU fishing (or an equivalent term or terms) as defined by either or both of the following:
i: a relevant global, regional, or subregional fisheries organisation or arrangement:
ii: the law of the national fisheries jurisdiction in which the fishing is carried out.
2: Fishing is illegal
a: the fishing is carried out by a vessel—
i: whose flag State is party to a relevant global, regional, or subregional fisheries organisation or arrangement; and
ii: in contravention of an international conservation and management measure of the organisation or arrangement that is binding on the flag State:
b: the fishing is carried out in the national fisheries jurisdiction of a country without the permission of that country or in contravention of its law:
c: the fishing otherwise contravenes either or both of the following:
i: international obligations that apply to the fishing, including obligations undertaken by co-operating non-members of a relevant global, regional, or subregional fisheries organisation or arrangement:
ii: domestic laws that apply to the fishing.
3: Fishing is unreported
a: reporting procedures of a relevant global, regional, or subregional fisheries organisation or arrangement that apply to the fishing:
b: domestic laws that apply to the fishing.
4: Fishing is unregulated
a: there is a relevant global, regional, or subregional fisheries organisation or arrangement, and—
i: the fishing is carried out by a ship without nationality; or
ii: the fishing—
A: is carried out by a vessel whose flag State is not bound by the international conservation and management measures of the organisation or arrangement; and
B: is inconsistent with 1 or more of those measures; or
b: there is no relevant global, regional, or subregional fisheries organisation or arrangement, and the fishing is inconsistent with State responsibilities for the conservation of living marine resources under international law.
5: In this section,— co-operating non-member
a: is not a party to the organisation or arrangement; but
b: has undertaken to comply with international conservation and management measures of the organisation or arrangement relevant global, regional, or subregional fisheries organisation or arrangement
a: is responsible for a fish stock that is affected by the fishing; and
b: covers the area, region, or subregion of the high seas in which the fishing is carried out.
113BC: Meaning of undermine effectiveness of international conservation and management measures
1: In this Part, undermine the effectiveness of international conservation and management measures
2: A relevant activity
a: IUU fishing:
b: transhipping or participating in fishing operations with a vessel that is on a final IUU vessel list:
c: fishing using a ship without nationality:
d: fishing without a licence, permit, or other authorisation required under the law of the country in whose national fisheries jurisdiction the fishing is carried out:
e: taking a stock in contravention of a prohibition imposed by or under this Act:
f: the contravention of a condition of an international fishing permit:
g: the contravention of any other requirement imposed by or under this Act or other legislation on—
i: the size of fish, aquatic life, or seaweed that may be transhipped or landed; or
ii: records and reports required in relation to the taking of fish, aquatic life, or seaweed:
h: falsifying a document, or using a false or invalid document, that is required by or under this Act or other legislation that relates to the management of fisheries:
i: falsifying or concealing the identity or registration of, or markings on, a vessel in contravention of requirements imposed by or under this Act:
j: concealing, tampering with, or disposing of evidence that is relevant to an investigation under—
i: this Act; or
ii: the law of another country (in relation to fishing in the national fisheries jurisdiction of that country):
k: obstructing a fisheries officer, a high seas fishery inspector, or an observer in the performance or exercise of their functions, duties, or powers under this Act:
l: any other fishing-related activity that contravenes or is inconsistent with either or both of the following:
i: the law of the country in whose national fisheries jurisdiction the activity is carried out; or
ii: an international conservation and management measure of a relevant global, regional, or subregional fisheries organisation or arrangement (as defined in section 113BB(5)
3: In determining whether a relevant activity undermines the effectiveness of international conservation and management measures, the chief executive must have regard to—
a: the degree of culpability of the owner, operator, notified user, or master of the vessel on or from which the activity was carried out; and
b: the harm that was or may be done to the environment as a result of the activity; and
c: the value of the fish, aquatic life, or seaweed taken in connection with the activity; and
d: the extent to which the activity contravened or was inconsistent with the measures; and
e: the extent to which the activity was repeated; and
f: any other matter the chief executive considers relevant.
22: Section 113C amended (Notification and certification by Secretary of Foreign Affairs and Trade)
Replace section 113C(1) and (2)
1: The Secretary of Foreign Affairs and Trade may from time to time, by notice in the Gazette
2: A notice given under subsection (1) must specify where a copy of the constitution of the organisation or a copy of the arrangement, as the case may be, may be obtained.
23: Cross-heading above section 113D replaced
Replace the cross-heading above section 113D Requirements relating to international fishing
24: New section 113DAAA inserted (All fishing within foreign jurisdiction to be in accordance with local law)
Before section 113D
113DAAA: All fishing within foreign jurisdiction to be in accordance with local law
1: No New Zealand national, and no person using a ship that is registered under the Ship Registration Act 1992
2: Every person who contravenes subsection (1) commits an offence and is liable to the penalty set out in section 252(3)
3: See also section 113D
25: Section 113D amended (Taking and transportation of fish, etc, on high seas using New Zealand ships)
1: In the heading to section 113D on high seas outside New Zealand fisheries waters
2: In section 113D(1) and (2) on the high seas or in the national fisheries jurisdiction of a foreign country
3: In section 113D(1)(a) and (2)(a) high seas fishing permit international fishing permit
4: In section 113D(2)(b)(i) and (4) a high seas fishing permit an international fishing permit
5: In section 113D(2)(b)(ii) laws of that State and the international fishing permit
26: Section 113F amended (Exemption from section 113E)
1: Replace section 113F(1)(c) and (d)
c: the vessel to which the application relates has not been used to engage in—
i: a relevant activity at any time within the 3 years immediately before the application was made; or
ii: a relevant activity that occurred at any earlier time and is the subject of—
A: an ongoing prosecution for an offence against this Part; or
B: a sentence that has not been served or a fine that has not been paid for an offence against this Part.
2: After section 113F(1)
1A: For the purposes of subsection (1)(c),—
a: a vessel is used to engage in a relevant activity
b: a prosecution is ongoing
27: Cross-heading above section 113G replaced
Replace the cross-heading above section 113G Issue of international fishing permits
28: Section 113G amended (Application for high seas fishing permit)
1: In the heading to section 113G high seas fishing permit international fishing permit
2: In section 113G a high seas fishing permit an international fishing permit
29: Section 113H replaced (Issue of high seas fishing permit)
Replace section 113H
113H: Chief executive may issue international fishing permit for high seas or national fisheries jurisdiction
The chief executive may issue an international fishing permit for either or both of the following:
a: the high seas:
b: the national fisheries jurisdiction of a foreign country.
113HA: Criteria that must be met before international fishing permit is issued
1: Before issuing an international fishing permit, the chief executive must be satisfied that the criteria set out in this section are met. Applicant vessel must be registered
2: The applicant vessel must be registered—
a: under the Ship Registration Act 1992
b: in the Fishing Vessel Register as either a fish carrier or a fishing vessel. Applicant vessel must be authorised by relevant foreign country (section 113H(b) permits)
3: For an international fishing permit under section 113H(b) Applicant vessel must not have undermined effectiveness of international conservation and management measures
4: The applicant vessel must not have been used to engage in—
a: a relevant activity at any time within the 3 years immediately before the application was made; or
b: a relevant activity that occurred at any earlier time and is the subject of—
i: an ongoing prosecution for an offence against this Part; or
ii: a sentence that has not been served or a fine that has not been paid for an offence against this Part.
5: For the purposes of subsection (4),—
a: a vessel is used to engage in a relevant activity
b: a prosecution is ongoing Relevant vessels and persons must not be on final IUU vessel list
6: None of the following may be listed on a final IUU vessel list:
a: the applicant vessel:
b: a relevant person:
c: a vessel linked to a relevant person.
7: However, subsection (6) does not apply to a listing on a final IUU vessel list if—
a: New Zealand is not a party to the global, regional, or subregional fisheries organisation or arrangement that adopted the final IUU vessel list; and
b: the chief executive is satisfied that the applicant vessel, relevant person, or vessel linked to a relevant person was listed on the final IUU vessel list as the result of an unfair process (for example, because an adversely affected party was not given a reasonable opportunity to comment on the proposal to list the vessel or person); and
c: before being satisfied of that matter, the chief executive consults—
i: the global, regional, or subregional fisheries organisation or arrangement that adopted the final IUU vessel list; and
ii: if the listing relates to a vessel that is not a New Zealand ship, the flag State of that other vessel.
8: In this section and section 113HB applicant vessel relevant person
a: owner:
b: beneficial owner:
c: operator:
d: foreign charterparty:
e: notified user:
f: master vessel linked to a relevant person
a: owner:
b: beneficial owner:
c: operator:
d: foreign charterparty:
e: notified user:
f: master.
113HB: Other considerations before international fishing permit is issued
1: The chief executive may, but is not required to, issue an international fishing permit, taking into account—
a: previous non-compliance (if any) by a relevant person or a crew member of the applicant vessel with requirements that—
i: are imposed by or under this Act or other legislation; and
ii: relate to fishing or transportation; and
b: that an operator may—
i: owe the Crown a levy payable under Part 14
ii: have unpaid and overdue deemed value amounts of more than $1,000; or
iii: hold a fishing permit that is subject to conditions by virtue of or under section 78(1) or (2)
c: any other matters that the chief executive considers relevant.
2: The chief executive may take into account the non-compliance whether it occurred within the national fisheries jurisdiction of New Zealand or another country or on the high seas.
3: Subsections (1) and (2) do not apply to non-compliance that must be considered under section 113HA(4)
30: Section 113I amended (Term and content of high seas fishing permit)
1: In the heading to section 113I high seas fishing permit international fishing permit
2: In section 113I(1) and (2) A high seas fishing permit An international fishing permit
31: Section 113J amended (Compliance with conditions and regulations)
1: In section 113J(1) and (2) a high seas fishing permit an international fishing permit
2: After section 113J(2)
3: Without limiting the application of section 241
a: the defendant was in the national fisheries jurisdiction of a foreign country when the contravention occurred; and
b: the contravention was necessary to comply with the law of the foreign country.
4: A defendant is not, without leave of the court, entitled to rely on the defence unless the defendant has, within 20 working days after pleading not guilty to the offence, served on the prosecutor a notice in writing that specifies—
a: the relevant law of the foreign country; and
b: the reasons why the contravention was necessary to comply with the law.
32: Section 113K amended (Conditions of high seas fishing permit)
1: In the heading to section 113K high seas fishing permit international fishing permit
2: In section 113K(1) A high seas fishing permit An international fishing permit
3: In section 113K(1)(r) international conservation and management measures that have been adopted by a notified global, regional, or subregional fisheries organisation or arrangement
4: In section 113K(2) and (4) a high seas fishing permit an international fishing permit
5: In section 113K(3)(a) the high seas fishing permit holder the international fishing permit holder
33: Section 113L amended (High seas fishing permit to be carried on vessel)
1: In the heading to section 113L High seas fishing permit International fishing permit
2: In section 113L(1) a high seas fishing permit an international fishing permit
34: Section 113M amended (Notification of change of ownership of vessel)
In section 113M(1) a high seas fishing permit an international fishing permit
35: Cross-heading above section 113N replaced
Replace the cross-heading above section 113N Suspension and revocation of international fishing permits
36: Section 113N amended (Chief executive may suspend or revoke high seas fishing permit)
1: In the heading to section 113N high seas fishing permit international fishing permit
2: In section 113N(1), (2), and (3) a high seas fishing permit an international fishing permit
3: In section 113N(2)(c) permit holder , or any person authorised to fish under the authority of the permit,
4: After section 113N(2)(c)
ca: there is evidence that the permit holder, or any person authorised to fish under the authority of the permit, has undermined the effectiveness of international conservation and management measures; or
5: After section 113N(2)
2A: The chief executive may also suspend or revoke an international fishing permit—
a: at the request of a foreign country whose authorisation to fish in its national fisheries jurisdiction was relied on to issue the permit; or
b: if the chief executive believes on reasonable grounds that an offence has been committed in relation to the vessel to which the permit relates by the permit holder, or any person authorised to fish under the authority of the permit.
6: In section 113N(4) the high seas fishing permit the international fishing permit
7: After section 113N(4)
5: In subsection (2A)(b), offence section 252(1)(a) to (c)
37: Section 113O amended (Procedure to be followed before suspending or revoking permit)
In section 113O a high seas fishing permit an international fishing permit
38: Section 113P amended (Effect of suspension or revocation of permit)
1: In section 113P(1) and (2) a high seas fishing permit an international fishing permit
2: In section 113P(1)(a) the high seas fishing permit the international fishing permit
39: Section 113S amended (Powers of high seas fishery inspectors in relation to foreign vessels)
In section 113S(1) global, regional, or subregional fisheries organisation or arrangement notified global, regional, or subregional fisheries organisation or arrangement
40: New section 113SA inserted (Powers of high seas fishery inspectors to verify nationality of vessels)
After section 113S
113SA: Powers of high seas fishery inspectors to verify nationality of vessels
1: This section applies if a high seas fishery inspector—
a: intends to board and inspect a vessel for the purposes of section 113S
b: suspects on reasonable grounds that section 113S(1)(b)
2: The high seas fishery inspector may board and inspect the vessel for any evidence relevant to whether it has nationality and, if so, what the nationality is.
3: In exercising those powers, the high seas fishery inspector must—
a: give the master of the vessel evidence of the inspector’s identity and of the fact that the inspector is a high seas fishery inspector; and
b: provide to the master of the vessel a copy of a report on the boarding and inspection, including any objection or statement that the master has advised the high seas fishery inspector that the master wishes to have included in the report.
4: If, after exercising those powers, the high seas fishery inspector is satisfied that the vessel is—
a: a ship without nationality, section 113R Ship Registration Act 1992
b: a ship with nationality, sections 113S and 113T to 113V section 113T(1)(a)
41: Section 113U amended (Investigation of serious violations)
Replace the heading to section 113U Investigation of serious violations: powers to remain on and direct vessel to port
42: New sections 113UA to 113UD inserted
After section 113U
113UA: Investigation of serious violations: power to detain vessel at port
1: This section applies to a vessel that is directed to a port under section 113U(3)
2: A high seas fishery inspector may detain the vessel at the port for as long as is reasonably necessary to enable the inspector to investigate the serious violation (but see
3: The high seas fishery inspector must notify the chief executive of the detention as soon as practicable after the detention starts.
4: The chief executive must, as soon as practicable after receiving the notice, advise the authorities of the vessel’s flag State of—
a: the name and location of the port at which the vessel is detained; and
b: the results of the investigation carried out in relation to the vessel.
5: The chief executive must direct the release of the vessel,—
a: if they believe on reasonable grounds that the serious violation took place on the high seas, on request of the vessel’s flag State; or
b: if they believe on reasonable grounds that the serious violation took place in New Zealand fisheries waters, on payment of a bond that they consider is reasonable, having regard to—
i: the gravity of the serious violation under investigation; and
ii: if the serious violation constitutes an offence under this Act, the applicable penalty; and
iii: the value of the vessel and its cargo.
113UB: Investigation of serious violations: search powers while vessel at port
1: This section applies to a vessel that is detained at a port under section 113UA(2)
2: A high seas fishery inspector may, for the purpose of investigating the serious violation and at any reasonable time, inspect 1 or more of the following:
a: the vessel:
b: the vessel’s authorisation to fish, or transport fish, aquatic life, or seaweed, in the relevant area of the high seas:
c: the vessel’s fishing gear and equipment:
d: the vessel’s facilities:
e: fish and fish products on the vessel:
f: the vessel’s records and other relevant documents.
3: A high seas fishery inspector may, for the purposes of inspecting any of those things, do 1 or more of the following:
a: open, or direct any person to open, a thing that may be inspected:
b: take any sample of a thing that may be inspected, for forensic or other scientific testing:
c: conduct a remote access search (as defined in section 3(1) of the Search and Surveillance Act 2012
d: take or make, in accordance with section 206
4: Part 4 of the Search and Surveillance Act 2012 subparts 2 and 3 sections 118 to 120, 173, and 174
5: This section is subject to section 113UC
113UC: Investigation of serious violations: search warrant required to enter living quarters or conduct remote access search
1: A high seas fishery inspector must not exercise a power under section 113UB
a: enter any living quarters on a vessel:
b: conduct a remote access search.
2: A high seas fishery inspector must apply for a search warrant in accordance with subpart 3 of Part 4 of the Search and Surveillance Act 2012
3: An issuing officer (as defined in section 3(1) of the Search and Surveillance Act 2012
a: entry into the living quarters:
b: the conduct of a remote access search.
4: Subparts 1, 3, 7, 9, and 10 of Part 4 of the Search and Surveillance Act 2012
5: In this section, living quarters
a: means an area of a vessel in which people live; but
b: does not include—
i: a communal area (for example, a mess deck or canteen); or
ii: a work area (for example, the bridge or the master’s office).
113UD: Investigation of serious violations: powers to detain, question, etc, master and crew
1: This section applies if—
a: a vessel is detained at a port under section 113UA(2)
b: the authorities of the vessel’s flag State request or consent to the exercise of 1 or more specified powers.
2: The high seas fishery inspector may, for the purpose of investigating the serious violation and at any reasonable time, exercise any specified power in relation to which the authorities have made a request or given their consent.
3: The specified powers person
a: detain the person on board the vessel:
b: direct the person to any other place for questioning and detain the person at that location:
c: question the person:
d: require the person to provide an answer, including any explanation or information concerning any vessel, or any place or thing, or any fish, aquatic life, or seaweed, or fishing method, gear, apparatus, record, document, article, device, or thing relating to the taking or possession of any fish, aquatic life, or seaweed:
e: require the person to produce any records or documents that are in their possession or control and may be relevant to the investigation:
f: take or make a copy of the record or document in accordance with section 206
4: The power to detain a person under subsection (3)(a) or (b) ceases to apply when the earliest of the following occurs:
a: if the person is on the vessel, the vessel ceases to be detained:
b: if the person is not, or is no longer, on the vessel, a high seas fishery inspector is satisfied that continued detention of the person is no longer reasonably necessary to investigate the serious violation:
c: in any case, the flag State of the vessel requests that the person’s detention end.
5: Subpart 5 of Part 4 of the Search and Surveillance Act 2012
6: Nothing in this section affects section 60 of the Evidence Act 2006
43: Section 113V amended (Boarding and inspection procedures modified by global, regional, or subregional fisheries organisation or arrangement)
1: In the heading to section 113V global, regional, or subregional fisheries organisation or arrangement notified global, regional, or subregional fisheries organisation or arrangement
2: In section 113V(1)(a) global, regional, or subregional fisheries organisation or arrangement notified global, regional, or subregional fisheries organisation or arrangement
44: Section 113W amended (Persons on New Zealand ships to co-operate with foreign high seas inspectors)
In section 113W(1) and (2) global, regional, or subregional fisheries organisation or arrangement notified global, regional, or subregional fisheries organisation or arrangement
45: Section 113X amended (Powers of foreign high seas inspector when requested to investigate)
In section 113X(1)(b) international conservation and management measures that have been adopted by a notified global, regional, or subregional fisheries organisation or arrangement
46: Section 113Y amended (Chief executive may withdraw authorisation to fish under high seas fishing permit)
1: In the heading to section 113Y high seas fishing permit international fishing permit
2: In section 113Y(2) the high seas fishing permit the international fishing permit
47: Section 113Z amended (Administrative penalties for high seas fisheries offences)
1: In the heading to section 113Z high seas fisheries offences offences outside New Zealand fisheries waters
2: Replace section 113Z(2)
2: The chief executive may cause notice in writing, in the approved form, to be served on a person if the chief executive has reasonable cause to believe that—
a: an offence to which this section applies may have been committed by that person; and
b: either of the following applies:
i: if the alleged offence is an offence against section 113J(2)
ii: in any other case, the alleged offence is minor; and
c: having regard to the previous conduct of the vessel and of that person, it would be appropriate to impose a penalty under this section.
2A: In considering whether there is reasonable cause to believe that an alleged offence against section 113J(2)
a: the degree of culpability of the person; and
b: the harm that was or may be done to the environment as a result of the alleged offence; and
c: the value of the fish, aquatic life, or seaweed taken in connection with the alleged offence; and
d: the extent to which the alleged offence contravened the condition; and
e: the extent to which the alleged offence was repeated; and
f: any other matter the chief executive considers relevant.
48: New section 113ZCA inserted (Publication of decisions on administrative penalties)
After section 113ZC
113ZCA: Publication of decisions on administrative penalties
The chief executive must, for each penalty imposed under section 113ZC
a: the date and location of the offence; and
b: the nature of the offence; and
c: the name of each person on whom the penalty was imposed; and
d: the name of the vessel involved in the offence; and
e: the matters considered by the chief executive under section 113Z(2A)
f: the amount of the penalty imposed.
49: Section 113ZC amended (Amount of administrative penalty)
1: Replace section 113ZC(1)
1: If a person admits an offence under section 113ZB
a: one-half of the maximum monetary penalty, if the offence is against section 113J(2)
b: one-third of the maximum monetary penalty, in any other case.
1A: Before imposing the penalty, the chief executive must take into account any submissions made by the person under section 113ZB
2: After section 113ZC(5)
6: In this section, maximum monetary penalty
50: Section 113ZD amended (Visits by foreign ships)
In section 113ZD(2) undermined the effectiveness of
51: Section 113ZE amended (Consent of Attorney-General required for certain proceedings)
In section 113ZE(1)(a) section 113A section 113DAAA
52: Section 113ZF amended (Authorised agent)
In section 113ZF a high seas fishing permit an international fishing permit Amendments to Part 10 (recordkeeping, reporting, disposal of fish, and provisions relating to taking and possession of fish for purpose of sale)
53: Section 189 amended (Persons who are required to keep records and returns)
In section 189(i) high seas fishing permits international fishing permits
54: Section 191 amended (Disposal of fish by commercial fishers)
In section 191(1A) and (5)(e) a high seas fishing permit an international fishing permit Amendments to Part 13 (offences and penalties)
55: Section 229 amended (Obstructing fishery officers)
1: In the heading to section 229 fishery officers or high seas fishery inspectors
2: In section 229(1)(a)(i) and (ii), (b)(i) and (ii), (c), (d), and (e) fishery officer or high seas fishery inspector
3: Replace section 229(1)(a)(iii)
iii: any person acting under the directions of—
A: a fishery officer in accordance with section 196(3)
B: a high seas fishery inspector in accordance with section 113Q(2) and (3)
4: Replace section 229(1)(b)(iii)
iii: any person acting under the directions of—
A: a fishery officer in accordance with section 196(3)
B: a high seas fishery inspector in accordance with section 113Q(2) and (3)
5: Replace section 229(2)
2: Every person who refuses to allow—
a: any fishery officer or high seas fishery inspector; or
b: any person assisting a fishery officer or high seas fishery inspector in accordance with section 219
c: any person acting under the directions of—
i: a fishery officer in accordance with section 196(3)
ii: a high seas fishery inspector in accordance with section 113Q(2) and (3) to exercise any of the powers conferred on that fishery officer, high seas fishery inspector, or person by this Act is deemed to be obstructing that fishery officer, high seas fishery inspector, or person.
56: New section 235A inserted (Assisting, etc, IUU-listed vessel)
After section 235
235A: Assisting, etc, IUU-listed vessel
1: This section applies to conduct carried out in New Zealand, in New Zealand fisheries waters, on the high seas, or in the national fisheries jurisdiction of a foreign country.
2: The owner, beneficial owner, operator, notified user, and master of a New Zealand fishing vessel each commit an offence if the vessel is used to—
a: assist an IUU-listed vessel with fishing for fish or with processing fish; or
b: tranship fish to or from an IUU-listed vessel.
3: A New Zealand national commits an offence who—
a: assists an IUU-listed vessel with fishing for fish or with processing fish; or
b: tranships fish to or from an IUU-listed vessel; or
c: is engaged or employed as, or otherwise is, a master or crew member of an IUU-listed vessel; or
d: provides, or enters into an agreement to provide, a master or crew for an IUU-listed vessel; or
e: is, or enters into an agreement to be, the operator or owner of an IUU-listed vessel; or
f: is, or enters into an agreement that would have the effect of making the New Zealand national, the beneficial owner of an IUU-listed vessel. Defence
4: Without limiting the application of section 241
a: was necessary—
i: to save or prevent danger to human life; or
ii: to avert a serious threat to the vessel; or
iii: in the case of force majeure
b: was a reasonable step to take in all the circumstances; and
c: was likely to result in less harm to the human life or vessel referred to in paragraph (a) than would otherwise have occurred; and
d: was done in a way that minimised the likelihood of harm to other human life, other vessels, and to fish and aquatic life.
5: A defendant is not, without leave of the court, entitled to rely on the defence unless the defendant has, within 30 days after the service of the summons, served on the prosecutor a notice in writing that specifies—
a: the reasons why the contravention was necessary and was a reasonable step to take in the circumstances; and
b: the harm that was likely to occur but for the contravention; and
c: how the contravention was done in a way that minimised the likelihood of harm to other human life, other vessels, and to fish, aquatic life, and seaweed. Consent of Attorney-General required for certain proceedings
6: Subsection (7) applies to proceedings for an offence under this section that is carried out on the high seas or in the national fisheries jurisdiction of a foreign country.
7: Despite anything in any other enactment, proceedings for the offence may not be instituted in any court except with the consent of the Attorney-General and on the Attorney-General’s certificate that it is expedient that the proceedings should be instituted. Definitions
8: In this section,— assist
a: sharing catch or fishing gear with an IUU-listed vessel:
b: net-sharing with an IUU-listed vessel (where net-sharing
c: sharing the co-ordinates of a fish aggregating device with an IUU-listed vessel (where a fish aggregating device
d: providing fuel to an IUU-listed vessel, including providing assistance with the logistics of loading and distributing the fuel among tanks on the vessel:
e: providing fishing-related personnel, fishing gear, and other fishing-related supplies at sea to an IUU-listed vessel:
f: transporting fish that have been caught by an IUU-listed vessel and have not previously been landed IUU-listed vessel
57: Section 252 amended (Penalties)
1: In section 252(3)(ha) section 113A(2) section 113DAAA(2)
2: In section 252(3)(hb) on high seas outside New Zealand fisheries waters
3: After section 252(3)(n)
na: section 235A(2)
nb: section 235A(3)
4: In section 252(5)(hb) and (hc) and (6)(a) high seas fishing permit international fishing permit
58: Section 269 amended (Suspension of permit, licence, or registration where levies unpaid)
1: In section 269(1) and (4) or controlled fishery licence
2: In section 269(3) or controlled fishery licences
3: In section 269(7) controlled fishery licence, Amendment to Part 16 (miscellaneous provisions)
59: Section 297 amended (General regulations)
In section 297(1)(s) High Seas Permit Register International Fishing Permit Register Amendment to Schedule 1AA (transitional, savings, and related provisions)
60: Schedule 1AA amended
In Schedule 1AA
a: insert the Part set out in the Schedule
b: make all necessary consequential amendments. Amendment to Schedule 10 (levies)
61: Schedule 10 amended
In Schedule 10
2: Consequential amendments
1: Amendments to Search and Surveillance Act 2012
62: Principal Act
Section 63 Search and Surveillance Act 2012 2025-09-29 Search and Surveillance Act 2012
63: Schedule amended
In the Schedule The following table is small in size and has 3 columns. This table amends the Schedule in the Search and Surveillance Act 2012 and should be read with that table to provide understanding of the context. 113UB High seas fishery inspector may inspect vessel that is detained at a port under section 113UA(2) of Fisheries Act 1996 All (except subparts 2 and 3 sections 118 to 120, 173, and 174 113UC High seas fishery inspector may enter living quarters or conduct remote access search under power conferred by section 113UB of Fisheries Act 1996 Subparts 1, 3, 7, 9, and 10 113UD High seas fishery inspector may question and require documents from master and crew members of vessel detained at a port under section 113UA(2) of Fisheries Act 1996 Subpart 5
2: Amendments to instruments made under Fisheries Act 1996
Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Regulations 2001
64: Principal regulations
Section 65 Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Regulations 2001 2025-09-29 Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Regulations 2001
65: Schedule 2 amended
In Schedule 2, clause 13(f) high seas fishing permits international fishing permits Fisheries (Electronic Monitoring on Vessels) Regulations 2017
66: Principal regulations
Section 67 Fisheries (Electronic Monitoring on Vessels) Regulations 2017 2025-09-29 Fisheries (Electronic Monitoring on Vessels) Regulations 2017
67: Regulation 3 amended (Interpretation)
In regulation 3 permit permit holder a high seas fishing permit an international fishing permit for the high seas Fisheries (Location and Inspection of Registers) Notice 2014
68: Principal notice
Section 69 Fisheries (Location and Inspection of Registers) Notice 2014 2025-09-29 Fisheries (Location and Inspection of Registers) Notice 2014
69: Clause 3 amended (Meaning of registers)
In clause 3 High Seas Permit Register International Fishing Permit Register Fisheries (Registers) Regulations 2001
70: Principal regulations
Section 71 Fisheries (Registers) Regulations 2001 2025-09-29 Fisheries (Registers) Regulations 2001
71: Regulation 8 amended (Particulars to be shown in High Seas Permit Register)
1: In the heading to regulation 8 High Seas Permit Register International Fishing Permit Register
2: In regulation 8 High Seas Permit Register International Fishing Permit Register Fisheries (Reporting) Regulations 2017
72: Principal regulations
Sections 73 to 75 Fisheries (Reporting) Regulations 2017 2025-09-29 Fisheries (Reporting) Regulations 2017
73: Regulation 3 amended (Interpretation)
In regulation 3 permit holder
ii: a person who holds an international fishing permit issued under section 113H(a)
74: Regulation 7AAA amended (Trip start reports)
After regulation 7AAA(2)
3: For the purposes of this regulation, permit holder section 113H(b)
75: Regulation 7AAAB amended (Trip end reports)
After regulation 7AAAB(2)
3: For the purposes of this regulation, permit holder section 113H(b) Fisheries (Western and Central Pacific Ocean Highly Migratory Fish Stocks) Regulations 2003
76: Principal regulations
Sections 77 78 Fisheries (Western and Central Pacific Ocean Highly Migratory Fish Stocks) Regulations 2003 2025-09-29 Fisheries (Western and Central Pacific Ocean Highly Migratory Fish Stocks) Regulations 2003
77: Regulation 6 amended (Register)
In regulation 6(2)(r) New Zealand High Seas Fishing Permit international fishing permit
78: Regulation 7 amended (Authorisation to fish for highly migratory fish stocks in Convention area)
In regulation 7(1)(b)(i) a New Zealand High Seas Fishing Permit an international fishing permit