The Government will remove barriers preventing competitor supermarkets from launching or expanding in New Zealand with a series of urgent legislative and policy changes.

Local communities across the country are set to benefit from the completion of the Government’s Local Water Done Well legislation, which will enable safe, reliable, and financially sustainable water services.

In Government, we’re busy working to grow our economy – and this includes improving competition settings.  Today I can provide an update on where things stand across competition and consumer policy. 

Unnecessary costs and frustrations throughout the economy are caused by complex and outdated labelling regulations.

Surcharges will be axed to put money back in Kiwis’ pockets, says Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Scott Simpson. “Surcharges are a hassle and an unwelcome surprise when shoppers get to the till. That pesky note or sticker on the payment machine will become a thing of the past.

Important progress in the fight against online financial scams has been made with the launch of a new initiative between government, industry and consumer groups.

Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay and Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Scott Simpson have welcomed a new certification scheme, announced by the Prime Minister in Shanghai today.

Last night the Government took a major step toward restoring common sense to financial regulation, with the first readings of three important reform bills.

The Government is moving swiftly to ensure Kiwis will be able to benefit from open banking by Christmas this year.

Financial education will be embedded as a core element of the refreshed social sciences curriculum for Year 1-10 students, set to be available for use from 2026, Education Minister Erica Stanford announced today.

A pilot programme that will help financial technology (fintech) firms shake up competition in the financial and banking sectors is now underway.

Banks have responded to the Government’s expectation to better protect Kiwi consumers from scams by introducing stronger safeguards and a compensation scheme.

The Government is delivering on its commitment to make it easier for Kiwis to access the finance they need, when they need it.

The Government is accelerating Local Water Done Well for the Wellington region to provide greater transparency at Wellington Water and ensure it is delivering value for money for ratepayers.

Easier data sharing will lead to greater competition and better choice for consumers in key markets such as banking and electricity.

Tēnā koutou katoa. Good morning and thank you to FintechNZ for having me here today. Thank you especially to executive director Jason Roberts, and for putting together such fabulous event.

The Government is progressing its ambitious, economy-wide review to improve competition, lift productivity, and drive down the cost of living, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly says.

Good morning, everyone. 

The Government welcomes the Commerce Commission’s plan to reduce card fees for Kiwis by an estimated $260 million a year, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly says.

Legislation to enable new water service delivery models that will drive critical investment in infrastructure has passed its first reading in Parliament, marking a significant step towards the delivery of Local Water Done Well.