Red Tape Tipline Hits 300 Reports

In its first week, the newly launched Red Tape tipline received over 300 reports from New Zealanders frustrated by excessive regulations, according to Regulation Minister Hon David Seymour.

“Red tape wastes valuable time, money and sanity,” Seymour said. “I am not surprised to see an outpouring of discontent from Kiwis who are sick of the tangle of red tape which stops them from getting things done.”

Reports came from a wide range of industries, including building and construction, traffic management, education, and training. Most complaints so far have focused on building and construction, particularly around time-consuming consenting processes that slow or even block progress.

Traffic management was another significant area of concern. Seymour shared a common sentiment: the “sea of road cones” is contributing to “frustrating and potentially unnecessary slowdowns and detours.”

The tipline aims to identify unnecessary or outdated regulations, prioritise areas for review, and propose necessary legislative changes. A dedicated Ministry for Regulation team is reviewing submissions, some of which are complex and could influence broader regulatory reform.

“There will be a range of different options the Ministry will be able to take to address issues raised,” Seymour said. These include targeted discussions with regulatory agencies, advice for ministerial colleagues, and proposing legislative adjustments.

Seymour emphasised the importance of public engagement, saying, “It has become too difficult to work, save and invest, and Kiwis have had their productivity sapped because of the time spent complying with edicts from Wellington. We’re committed to restoring New Zealand’s ‘can do’ attitude. Keep the red tape reports coming, so we can do something about them.”
Red tape issues can be reported here