Parliament bill

Regulatory Systems (Transport) Amendment Bill

Royal assent

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July 15, 2026 15:52
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July 15, 2026 15:52
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What this bill does

The bill passed its second reading by voice vote; no party or individual counts were recorded. Transport rules still rely on paper licences, vehicle documents, and notices, while some regulators lack powers or updated rules for safety and maritime employment. The bill aims to update transport regulation across road, rail, maritime, and aviation, including digital processes and safety oversight. The bill lets drivers and vehicle operators use electronic licences and documents where rules allow, and lets agencies send notices electronically. It also gives transport regulators added powers to close unsafe State highways, act against unsafe operators, investigate rail incidents, and enforce maritime worker protections.

AI-assisted summary based on the bill text and linked Hansard debates.

Latest voting result

April 23, 2026
Second reading: Passed Voice vote

Decision recorded by voice vote; no individual or party counts were recorded.

View the vote in Hansard

Arguments raised in Parliament

AI-assisted summary of the linked Hansard debates. Each point is grounded in the cited transcript.

Arguments for

Drivers will be able to use a digital licence framework while retaining physical licences, allowing people who lack a physical card to verify their driving entitlement without making digital identification compulsory.

The New Zealand Transport Agency will be able to close or control unsafe State highways promptly, enabling it to protect road users during hazards such as severe weather or landslides.

Maritime New Zealand will gain measures that protect seafarers’ employment and human rights on overseas voyages, reducing vulnerability for workers who may lack communication or support at sea.

Arguments against

Nuance and qualifications

People who cannot obtain a driver’s licence or passport may remain excluded from convenient identity verification unless the promised alternative trusted digital-ID options are delivered.

Recipients of electronic road-user-charge notices could be deemed notified when the agency sends a notice even if technical failures prevent delivery, so the electronic-notification design needs care.

Bill text

Regulatory Systems (Transport) Amendment Bill

Version published April 30, 2026 00:00.

Regulatory Systems (Transport) Amendment Bill The Parliament of New Zealand enacts as follows: 1 Title This Act is the Regulatory Systems (Transport) Amendment Act 2025 . 2 Commencement This Act comes into force on 1 April 2026. 2 Commencement This Act comes into force on the day after Royal assent. 3 Principal Act This Part amends the Government Roading Powers Act 1989. 4 New section 61AA inserted (Agency may close State highways) After section 61, insert: 61AA Agency may close State highways 1 The Agency may— a stop, divert, or otherwise control traffic on a State highway; or b close a State highway (or any part of it) to traffic. 2 The Agency may only exercise the power under subsection (1) if the Agency considers it appropriate to do so for the protection and safety of the public. 3 The Agency must notify the New Zealand Police, Fire and Emergency New Zealand, and relevant ambulance services as soon as practicable of any action taken under subsection (1) . 5 Section 82 amended (Restrictions on use of motorways) After section 82(1)(d), insert: e a pedestrian on infrastructure that is— i designed for pedestrian use; and ii located on the motorway. 6 Principal Act This Part amen…
Read full bill text
Regulatory Systems (Transport) Amendment Bill The Parliament of New Zealand enacts as follows: 1 Title This Act is the Regulatory Systems (Transport) Amendment Act 2025 . 2 Commencement This Act comes into force on 1 April 2026. 2 Commencement This Act comes into force on the day after Royal assent. 3 Principal Act This Part amends the Government Roading Powers Act 1989. 4 New section 61AA inserted (Agency may close State highways) After section 61, insert: 61AA Agency may close State highways 1 The Agency may— a stop, divert, or otherwise control traffic on a State highway; or b close a State highway (or any part of it) to traffic. 2 The Agency may only exercise the power under subsection (1) if the Agency considers it appropriate to do so for the protection and safety of the public. 3 The Agency must notify the New Zealand Police, Fire and Emergency New Zealand, and relevant ambulance services as soon as practicable of any action taken under subsection (1) . 5 Section 82 amended (Restrictions on use of motorways) After section 82(1)(d), insert: e a pedestrian on infrastructure that is— i designed for pedestrian use; and ii located on the motorway. 6 Principal Act This Part amends the Land Transport Act 1998. 7 Section 2 amended (Interpretation) In section 2(1), replace the definition of driver licence with: driver licence means a licence to drive that is issued or has effect under this Act, and includes— a an electronic driver licence; and b a physical driver licence; and c an endorsement on a driver licence In section 2(1), definition of mobility device , paragraph (a)(ii), after maximum , insert continuous . In section 2(1), insert in their appropriate alphabetical order: electronic driver licence means a driver licence in electronic format physical driver licence means a driver licence in physical format, whether or not the licence contains an electronic element (such as a chip) 8 Section 6 amended (Vehicles to be safe and operated in compliance with rules) Replace section 6(4) with: 4 Evidence of vehicle inspection must be— a displayed on the vehicle to which it applies; or b electronically available in a manner prescribed by the regulations or rules. Replace section 6(5) with: 5 A certificate of loading must, if required by the regulations or rules, be— a displayed on the vehicle to which it applies; or b electronically available in a manner prescribed by the regulations or rules. 9 Section 13 amended (Drivers and other road users to comply with directions of enforcement officers, etc) In section 13(4)(b), after the vehicle , insert or is electronically available in a manner prescribed by the regulations or rules . 10 Section 19 replaced (Licences of certain persons subject to Mental Health (Compulsory Assessment and Treatment) Act 1992 to be suspended) Replace section 19 with: 19 Licences of certain persons subject to Mental Health (Compulsory Assessment and Treatment) Act 1992 to be suspended 1 If a person who holds a driver licence (a holder ) becomes subject to a compulsory treatment order that is an inpatient order or becomes a special patient under the Mental Health (Compulsory Assessment and Treatment) Act 1992,— a the person in charge of the hospital to which the holder is referred, or at which the holder is detained, must notify the Director of Land Transport of the making of the inpatient order or that the holder is a special patient (as the case may be); and b the licence is suspended while the holder is subject to the inpatient order or is a special patient. Physical driver licence 2 If the holder has a physical driver licence, the person who has possession of the holder’s physical driver licence must, on the request of the person in charge of the hospital at which the holder is an inpatient, deliver the physical driver licence to the person in charge of the hospital, and the person in charge must forward the physical driver licence to the Director of Area Mental Health Services. 3 The Director of Area Mental Health Services must retain the holder’s physical driver licence until the holder ceases to be subject to an inpatient order or to be a special patient and then,— a in the case of a physical driver licence that applies to commercial vehicles, forward the physical driver licence to the Director of Land Transport; or b in the case of any other physical driver licence, return the physical driver licence to the holder or to the person who had possession of the physical driver licence under subsection (2) . 4 In the case of a physical driver licence that applies to commercial vehicles, once the holder ceases to be subject to an inpatient order or to be a special patient, the Director of Land Transport must, as soon as practicable after the Director of Land Transport is satisfied that the holder is eligible to hold the licence, return the licence to the holder or to the person who had possession of the licence under subsection (2) . Electronic driver licence 5 If the holder has an electronic driver licence, the Director of Land Transport may do either or both of the following: a prevent the holder’s access to their electronic driver licence: b amend the electronic driver licence. 6 Once the holder ceases to be subject to an inpatient order or to be a special patient, the Director of Land Transport must restore the holder’s access to their electronic driver licence if access was prevented and remove any amendments made to the electronic driver licence under this section as soon as practicable after the Director of Land Transport is satisfied that— a the holder is no longer subject to an inpatient order or a special patient; and b the holder is eligible to hold the electronic driver licence. Ongoing licence restrictions 7 If a holder ceases to be subject to an inpatient order or to be a special patient and their responsible clinician considers the holder to be unfit to hold a driver licence,— a the responsible clinician must advise the Director of Area Mental Health Services of that opinion and the Director of Area Mental Health Services must give the Director of Land Transport a certificate to that effect; and b if the holder has a physical driver licence and the Director of Area Mental Health Services has possession of that licence, that Director must return the licence to the Director of Land Transport; and c if the holder has an electronic driver licence, the Director of Land Transport may do either or both of the following: i prevent the holder’s access to their electronic driver licence: ii amend the electronic driver licence; and d the holder’s driver licence has no effect unless, in accordance with subsection (8) ,— i in the case of a physical driver licence, the licence is returned: ii in the case of an electronic driver licence, the holder’s access to their licence is restored. 8 The holder may apply to the Director of Land Transport for the return of their driver licence and the Director of Land Transport must, if satisfied that the holder is fit to hold a driver licence,— a in respect of a physical driver licence that is held by the Director of Land Transport, return the licence to the holder: b in respect of an electronic driver licence, restore the holder’s access to their licence if access was prevented and remove any amendments made to the licence under this section. Leave from hospital 9 The driver licence of a holder who is subject to an inpatient order or is a special patient is not suspended while that holder is absent on leave from the hospital if— a that holder is, under any of sections 31, 50 50A , and 52 of the Mental Health (Compulsory Assessment and Treatment) Act 1992, permitted to be absent on leave from a hospital under that Act; and b a responsible clinician certifies in writing that, in the clinician’s opinion, that holder is fit to hold a driver licence. 10 If subsection (9) applies— a in respect of a physical driver licence, the Director of Area Mental Health Services must, if they hold the holder’s physical driver licence, return the physical driver licence to the holder: b in respect of an electronic driver licence, the Director of Land Transport must, as soon as possible after receiving a certificate under subsection (9)(b) , restore the holder’s access to their electronic driver licence if access was prevented and remove any amendments made to the licence under this section. 11 Section 22 amended (Driver’s duties where accident occurs) After section 22(2)(aa), insert: ab the driver’s or rider’s mobile phone number (if the driver or rider has a mobile phone number); and After section 22(2)(ba), insert: bb the owner’s mobile phone number (if the owner has a mobile phone number); and After section 22(4)(aa), insert: ab the driver’s or rider’s mobile phone number (if the driver or rider has a mobile phone number); and 12 Section 22AB amended (Road controlling authorities may make certain bylaws) After section 22AB(1)(o)(vii), insert: viii prescribing an infringement fee for any infringement offence involving parking in breach of a bylaw and in excess of a period fixed by a meter or otherwise: After section 22AB(3B), insert: 3C For the purposes of subsection (1)(o)(viii) ,— a the infringement fee must not exceed the relevant fee prescribed by regulations, or must be within the range of fees prescribed if a range is prescribed; but b if the road controlling authority has not made a bylaw prescribing an infringement fee, the relevant fee is— i the fee prescribed by regulations, in the case of regulations prescribing a single fee; or ii the minimum fee prescribed by regulations, in the case of regulations prescribing a range of fees. 13 Section 22C amended (Traction engine to be safe and operated in compliance with regulations and rules) In section 22C(4), after applies , insert or electronically available in a manner prescribed by the regulations or rules . 14 Section 23 amended (Issue of driver licences) After section 23(3)(b), insert: c extend, in accordance with section 209B , the term of a driver licence (including a driver licence that has been issued in accordance with paragraph (a) or further extended in accordance with paragraph (b)). 15 Section 28 amended (Photographic driver licence) In section 28(1), replace be in the prescribed form and must have on it with , in the prescribed manner, include . Replace section 28(1)(k) with: k any other features that may be specified in the regulations or rules— i for the purposes of verifying or protecting the integrity of the driver licence; or ii for the specific format of the driver licence. After section 28(1), insert: 1A Different prescribed forms may be prescribed for different types of driver licences, including different formats of driver licences. 16 Section 30 amended (Driver licences are property of Agency and are to be surrendered in certain circumstances) In the heading to section 30, after surrendered , insert or access is to be prevented . Replace section 30(1) with: 1 Driver licences are the property of the Agency and,— a in the case of a physical driver licence, must be surrendered or forwarded to the Agency or the Director in accordance with subsections (2) to (4A), unless subsection (4B) or section 19 applies: b in the case of an electronic driver licence, access to an electronic driver licence may be prevented or the electronic driver licence may be amended in accordance with subsection (4C) , unless section 19 applies. After section 30(1), insert: Surrender of physical driver licence 1A Subsections (2) to (4B) apply if a person holds a physical driver licence. In section 30(2), after holder of a , insert physical . In section 30(3), after holder of a , insert physical . In section 30(3A), replace his or her licence with the physical driver licence . In section 30(4), after receives a , insert physical . In section 30(4A), replace driver licence with physical driver licence in each place. In section 30(4B)(a) and (b), replace his or her driver licence with the physical driver licence held by the person . After section 30(4B), insert: Prevention of electronic driver licence access 4C If any of the circumstances described in subsections (2) to (3A), (4A), and (4B) apply to a person who holds an electronic driver licence, the Director may do either or both of the following: a prevent the holder’s access to their electronic driver licence: b amend the electronic driver licence. Issue of new licence In section 30(5)(a), after person , insert , or restore access to the electronic driver licence and remove any amendments made to the electronic driver licence under this section, . 17 New section 30LA inserted (New person in control of licensed transport service must be fit and proper person) After section 30L, insert: 30LA New person in control of licensed transport service must be fit and proper person 1 This section applies if, after the Director grants a transport service licence to a person (the licence holder ), another person is proposed to have control of the licensed transport service (a new person ). 2 However, this section does not apply if a new person is— a an elected member of a local authority who is proposed to take control of the service in that capacity; or b an officer or employee of any of the following entities who is proposed to take control of the service in that capacity, unless the Director, by notice to the licence holder, requires compliance with this section: i the New Zealand Police: ii a public service agency as defined in section 5 of the Public Service Act 2020: iii a Crown entity as defined in section 7 of the Crown Entities Act 2004: iv a local authority. 3 A new person must not have control of the licensed transport service unless approved by the Director. 4 The licence holder must not permit a new person to have control of the transport service unless approved by the Director. 5 A new person must apply to the Director to be approved to have control of the transport service. 6 The Director must not approve an application unless they are satisfied that the new person is a fit and proper person to have control of the transport service. 7 In determining whether a new person is a fit and proper person, the Director must consider the matters specified in subpart 2 . 8 Subpart 5 applies to a decision under this section that a new person is not a fit and proper person. 18 Section 30N amended (Transfer, assignment, or lease of transport service licence prohibited) In the heading to section 30N, delete , assignment, or lease . Replace section 30N(1) with: 1 A transport service licence must not be transferred to any person. After section 30N(2), insert: 3 In this section, transfer includes to assign, lease, sell, exchange, grant, loan, or confer, whether on a temporary or permanent basis. 19 Section 30S amended (When Director may revoke transport service licence) After section 30S(1)(d), insert: e a new person has control of the transport service in contravention of section 30LA . 20 Section 30U amended (Suspension of transport service licence or imposition of conditions) In section 30U(2), after suspension , insert under this section . In section 30U(3), after licence , insert under this section . 21 New section 30UA inserted (Immediate suspension of transport service licence for significant health and safety reasons) After section 30U, insert: 30UA Immediate suspension of transport service licence for significant health and safety reasons 1 The Director may immediately suspend a licence, by notice in writing to the holder of the licence (the licence holder ), if the Director is satisfied that doing so is necessary for significant health and safety reasons. 2 In subsection (1) , significant health and safety reasons may include (but are not limited to) the following: a an unsafe motor vehicle is operated under the licence: b a driver operating a vehicle under the licence fails to comply with— i work time requirements set out in Part 4B or in the rules; or ii requirements in the Act or the rules in respect of loading of vehicles; or iii dimension requirements or mass limits in this Act or the rules: c a driver with a significant impairment operates a vehicle under the licence. 3 A suspension under subsection (1) takes effect either immediately or from a date specified by the Director. 4 A suspension under subsection (1) immediately ceases if the Director is satisfied that subsection (1) no longer applies. 5 If the Director suspends a licence under subsection (1) , the notice must— a inform the licence holder of the grounds of the suspension; and b advise the licence holder that— i the suspension has effect from the day on which the licence holder receives the notice, or any later date that is specified in the notice; and ii the licence holder may make submissions on the matter to the Director; and iii the licence holder has a right of appeal under section 106 . 6 The Director must, as soon as practicable, consider any submissions made by the licence holder and notify the licence holder of the result of the consideration. 7 Subpart 5 does not apply to a decision to immediately suspend a transport service licence under this section. 22 Section 30V amended (Interpretation) In section 30V, definition of adverse decision , paragraph (a), after subpart 2 , insert or section 30LA . 23 Section 31 amended (Contravention of section 5(1)(a) or (b) or (4) or 30(2), (3), (3A), (4A), or (4B)) In section 31(1)(d), after his or her , insert physical . 24 Section 34 amended (Contravention of section 6) In section 34(1)(b), after displaying , insert , or having electronically available (if the regulations or rules allow), . 25 Section 36B amended (Contravention of section 22B or section 22C) In section 36B(1)(c), after displaying , insert , or having electronically available (if the regulations or rules allow), . 26 Section 52 amended (Contravening notices, requirements, etc, given or imposed by enforcement officers) In section 52(1)(b), after displayed on, , insert or is electronically available (if the regulations or rules allow) for, . 27 New section 79EA inserted (Contravention of section 30LA) After section 79E, insert: 79EA Contravention of section 30LA 1 A person who has control of a transport service in contravention of section 30LA(3) commits an infringement offence. 2 A person who permits another person to have control of a transport service in contravention of section 30LA(4) commits an infringement offence. 3 A person who commits an infringement offence under subsection (1) or (2) is liable to— a an infringement fee of the amount prescribed in the regulations; or b a fine imposed by a court not exceeding,— i in the case of an individual, $1,500: ii in any other case, $3,000. 28 New section 79FA inserted (Contravention of section 30N) After section 79F, insert: 79FA Contravention of section 30N 1 A person commits an offence if the person transfers a transport service licence to another person in contravention of section 30N . 2 A person who commits an offence under subsection (1) is liable on conviction,— a in the case of an individual, to a fine not exceeding $30,000: b in any other case, to a fine not exceeding $100,000. 29 Section 91B amended (Ways in which warning notice or driver licence stop order or details of related fines must be served) After section 91B(1)(e), insert: f by the chief executive of the Ministry of Justice sending an electronic notification to the defendant that states where the defendant can access the notice, order, or notice of details electronically (if the defendant has agreed to that method of electronic notification and access). After section 91B(4), insert: 5 If a warning notice or driver licence stop order, or notice of details of the fines to which that order relates, is served in the way described in subsection (1)(f) , then, unless the contrary is shown,— a the notice, order, or notice of details is served at the time the electronic communication containing the notification of the notice, order, or notice of details is listed as sent in the information system used to send the electronic communication; and b in proving service, it is sufficient to prove that the electronic communication containing the notification was properly addressed and sent. 30 Section 91E amended (Imposition of driver licence stop order) In section 91E(3)(e), after any , insert physical . In section 91E(3)(f), after any , insert physical . 31 Section 91F amended (Effect of driver licence stop order) Replace section 91F(1)(b) with: b if the order is served, but is not served personally, on a defendant who holds a physical driver licence and the defendant posts or delivers the physical driver licence to an employee or agent of the Ministry of Justice, immediately after that employee or agent receives the defendant’s physical driver licence: c if the order is served, but is not served personally, on a defendant who holds an electronic driver licence, immediately after the Director prevents access to, or amends the licence in accordance with section 30(4C) . 32 Section 91G amended (Cancellation of driver licence stop order) Replace section 91G(5) with: 5 When the Director receives notice of the cancellation,— a in the case of the cancellation of a driver licence stop order relating to a physical driver licence, the Director must, if the defendant’s physical driver licence was surrendered and forwarded to the Director and the defendant is otherwise eligible to hold a current driver licence, replace the physical driver licence and send it by ordinary post to the defendant’s address recorded on the national register maintained under section 199; and b in the case of the cancellation of a driver licence stop order relating to an electronic driver licence, the Director must follow the process prescribed by the regulations or rules to reverse the stop order. In section 91G(6), delete photographic . 33 Section 91H amended (Termination of driver licence stop order if traffic fine paid or resolved) Replace section 91H(4) with: 4 When the Director receives notice of the termination,— a in the case of the termination of a driver licence stop order relating to a physical driver licence, the Director must, if the defendant’s physical driver licence was surrendered and forwarded to the Director and the defendant is otherwise eligible to hold a current driver licence, replace the physical driver licence and send it by ordinary post to the defendant’s address recorded on the national register maintained under section 199; and b in the case of the termination of a driver licence stop order relating to an electronic driver licence, the Director must follow the process prescribed by the regulations or rules to reverse the stop order. In section 91H(5), delete photographic . 34 Section 95 amended (Mandatory 28-day suspension of driver licence in certain circumstances) In section 95(2)(c), after any , insert physical . 35 Section 96 amended (Vehicle seized and impounded for 28 days in certain circumstances) After section 96(2)(a)(ia), insert: ib the driver’s mobile phone number (if the driver has a mobile phone number); and Replace section 96(2AAA) with: 2AAA For the purposes of subsection (2)(c), if the registered person is not present at the time of the seizure, the enforcement officer must, as soon as practicable, give the notice to the registered person in one of the following ways: a by sending a copy of the notice to the registered person by post addressed to that person at their last known place of residence or business, their last known postal address, or their address as recorded on the register of motor vehicles or any other register administered by the Agency; or b by sending a copy of the notice to the registered person by electronic means to— i an electronic address that the person has given to an enforcement authority; or ii if no electronic address is given, the person’s last known electronic address; or c by sending an electronic notification to the registered person that states where they can access the notice electronically (if the registered person has agreed to that method of electronic notification and access). Replace section 96(2A)(a)(v) with: v mobile phone number (if the driver has a mobile phone number) or otherwise another phone number (if the driver has another phone number); and Replace section 96(2A)(b)(v) with: v mobile phone number (if the registered person has a mobile phone number) or otherwise another phone number (if the registered person has another phone number). 36 Section 96A amended (Impoundment of vehicle used in transport service) After section 96A(2)(a)(ia), insert: ib the driver’s mobile phone number (if the driver has a mobile phone number); and After section 96A(2)(a)(iia), insert: iib the transport service operator’s mobile phone number (if the transport service operator has a mobile phone number); and Replace section 96A(2AAA) with: 2AAA For the purposes of subsection (2)(c), if the registered person is not present at the time of the seizure, the enforcement officer must, as soon as practicable, give the notice to the registered person in one of the following ways: a by sending a copy of the notice to the registered person by post addressed to that person at their last known place of residence or business, their last known postal address, or their address as recorded on the register of motor vehicles or any other register administered by the Agency; or b by sending a copy of the notice to the registered person by electronic means to— i an electronic address that the person has given to an enforcement authority; or ii if no electronic address is given, the person’s last known electronic address; or c by sending an electronic notification to the registered person that states where they can access the notice electronically (if the registered person has agreed to that method of electronic notification and access). Replace section 96A(2A)(a)(v) with: v mobile phone number (if the driver has a mobile phone number) or otherwise another phone number (if the driver has another phone number); and Replace section 96A(2A)(b)(iv) with: iv mobile phone number (if the transport service operator has a mobile phone number) or otherwise another phone number (if the transport service operator has another phone number). 37 Section 105 amended (Court may make order authorising grant of limited licence) In section 105(8), replace their photographic with any physical . In section 105(8A), replace his or her photographic with any physical . 38 Section 106 amended (General right of appeal to District Court) After section 106(5)(b), insert: c to any decision made in relation to the extension of a land transport document, or of a class or type of land transport document, under section 209B , including a decision to grant (or not to grant), to amend, to replace, or to revoke an extension. 39 Section 113 amended (Enforcement officers may enforce transport legislation) In section 113(2)(b)(ii), after displayed , insert , electronically available (if the regulations or rules allow), . 40 Section 115 amended (Enforcement officers may give directions prohibiting driving of vehicles) In section 115(2)(c), after displayed on that vehicle , insert or electronically available (if the regulations or rules allow) . In section 115(3)(b)(iii), after displayed on that vehicle , insert or electronically available (if the regulations or rules allow) . 41 Section 118 amended (Requirement to give information as to identity of driver or passenger) Replace section 118(6) with: 6 If the holder of a transport service licence employs a person to drive a vehicle under that licence, the licence holder, on being informed of any offence alleged to have been committed by that person or by a person driving a vehicle being used under the licence, and on being requested to do so by an enforcement officer, must supply in writing, the driver’s— a full name; and b full address; and c electronic address (if the driver has an electronic address); and d mobile phone number (if the driver has a mobile phone number). 42 Section 128E amended (Powers of parking wardens) Replace section 128E(1)(b)(i) and (ii) with: i provide the person’s full name, full address, and electronic address (if the person has an electronic address): ii give any other particulars required as to the person’s identity (for example, the person’s date of birth, occupation, mobile phone number, or any other phone number): iii give any information that the person has that may lead to the identification of the driver or person in charge of any vehicle (for example, the full name, full address, electronic address, date of birth, occupation, mobile phone number, or any other phone number of the driver or person in charge of the vehicle): 43 Section 128F amended (Powers of enforcement officers in relation to public transport service fares) Replace section 128F(2)(a) with: a direct the person to provide the person’s— i full name; and ii full address; and iii electronic address (if the person has an electronic address); and iv mobile phone number (if the person has a mobile phone number) or otherwise another phone number (if the person has another phone number); and v date of birth; and 44 Section 133 amended (Owner liability for moving vehicle offences and special vehicle lane offences) In section 133(4)(c)(i)(B), replace telephone number, with mobile phone number or any other phone number, . 45 Section 133A amended (Owner liability for stationary vehicle offences) In section 133A(4)(c)(i)(B), replace telephone number, with mobile phone number or any other phone number, . 46 Section 139 amended (Issue of infringement notice) Replace section 139(2)(c) with: c by sending to the person who appears to have committed the infringement offence— i the infringement notice (or a copy of it) by post, addressed to the person at their last known place of residence or business or last known postal address; or ii the infringement notice (or a copy of it) to the person’s electronic address; or iii an electronic notification that states where the person can access the infringement notice (or a copy of it) by electronic means (if the person has agreed to that method of electronic notification and access); or Replace section 139(2)(d) with: d if the person is the holder of a land transport document, by sending to the person— i the infringement notice (or a copy of it) by post to the last address the person provided for the purposes of that land transport document; or ii the infringement notice (or a copy of it) to the person’s electronic address; or iii an electronic notification that states where the person can access the infringement notice (or a copy of it) by electronic means (if the person has agreed to that method of electronic notification and access). In section 139(3)(c), replace electronically to a person with to an electronic address . After section 139(3)(c), insert: d is served in the way described in subsection (2)(c)(iii) or (d)(iii) must, unless the contrary is shown, be treated as having been sent to, or served on, the person at the time the electronic communication containing the notification of the infringement notice is listed as sent in the information system used to send the electronic communication. After section 139(3), insert: 4 For the purposes of subsection (3)(c) and (d) , in proving the sending of any electronic communication, it is sufficient to prove that the electronic communication was properly addressed and sent. In section 139(6A), replace subsection (2)(c)(ii) or (d)(ii) with subsection 2(c)(ii) or (iii) or (d)(ii) or (iii) . 47 Section 154 amended (Rules concerning driver licensing) In section 154(1)(a), after issue, , insert production, . In section 154(1)(a), replace licences with driver licences . 48 Section 155 amended (Rules concerning vehicles) In section 155(1)(e), after vehicles , insert , including the requirement for a vehicle or class of vehicles to present for inspection if a safety issue has been identified, . 49 Section 161 amended (Procedure concerning ordinary rules) Replace section 161(2) with: 2 Before making an ordinary rule, the Minister must— a publish a notice of their proposal to make the rule, which must specify a reasonable time for interested persons to make submissions on the proposal; and b consult any persons that the Minister considers appropriate, which may include— i representative groups within the land transport system or elsewhere; and ii government departments; and iii Crown entities. 50 Section 167 amended (Regulations) In section 167(1)(d)(i), replace $10,000 with $15,000 . In section 167(1)(e), after paragraph (b) , insert and for infringement offences in this Act . In section 167(1)(e)(i), replace $2,000 with $3,000 . After section 167(1)(e), insert: ea setting an infringement fee, a maximum infringement fee, or a range of infringement fees, for an infringement offence involving parking in breach of a bylaw and in excess of a period fixed by a meter or otherwise: In section 167(1)(h)(i), replace $10,000 with $15,000 . 51 Section 168A amended (Agency may declare that vehicle is mobility device or is not motor vehicle) In section 168A(1), after maximum , insert continuous . Replace section 168A(2) and (3) with: 2 If a vehicle or type of vehicle is propelled by a motor that has a maximum continuous power output not exceeding 2,000 W, the Agency may, by notice, declare that the vehicle or type of vehicle is not a motor vehicle. 3 Before making a declaration under subsection (2) , the Agency must— a consider how the declaration would contribute to an effective, efficient, and safe land transport system in the public interest; and b publish a notice of its proposal to make the declaration, which must specify a reasonable time for interested persons to make submissions on the proposal; and c consult any person that the Agency considers appropriate. In section 168A(4), replace subsection (3) with subsection (2) . After section 168A(4), insert: 4A In this section, maximum continuous power output , in relation to a motor, means the amount calculated using the following formula: W = V × A where— W is the maximum continuous power output of the motor V is the motor’s rated voltage A is the motor’s rated maximum current. 52 Section 198 amended (Inspections and audits) Replace section 198(1) with: 1 The Director may in writing require any of the following persons to undergo any inspections and audits that the Director reasonably considers necessary in the interests of land transport safety (including inspections and audits of vehicles operated by such persons): a a person who holds a land transport document that authorises the provision of a service in the land transport system: b a person who the Director has reasonable grounds to believe is carrying on a transport service specified in section 30J without holding a transport service licence. 53 Section 199 amended (Agency to maintain register of driver licences) In section 199(2)(a), after (if they have an electronic address that is known to the Agency), , insert mobile phone number (if they have a mobile phone number that is known to the Agency), . After section 199(2), insert: 2A The national register may show for each driver licence the format or formats of driver licence that are held by the holder. 54 Section 199A amended (Register of transport service licences) After section 199A(2)(ca), insert: cb the holder’s business or personal mobile phone number (if they have a mobile phone number that is known to the Agency): After section 199A(2)(da), insert: db the business or personal mobile phone number of any person in control (if they have a mobile phone number that is known to the Agency): 55 Section 200 amended (Restrictions on access to photographic images of driver licence holders) In section 200(1A)(a), replace (2), (3), and (4) with (2) to (4B) . After section 200(4), insert: 4A A person whose photographic image is stored under section 28(5) may access the photographic image when accessing or using the person’s electronic driver licence, including in order to provide the photographic image to a third party for the purposes of identification or verification, or both. 4B The Agency may, with the consent of the person to whom the photographic image relates, provide a third party with a copy of, or access to, a photographic image stored under section 28(5) for the purpose of creating or maintaining an electronic driver licence, or both. 4B The Agency may provide a third party with a copy of, or access to, a photographic image stored under section 28(5) for the following purposes: a creating or maintaining a driver licence, or both: b creating or maintaining a driver identification card, or both: c maintaining the driver licence register. 56 New sections 209B and 209C inserted After section 209A, insert: 209B Director may extend term of land transport documents in emergency 1 Despite this Act and any rules or regulations made under this Act relating to land transport documents, the Director may, in response to an emergency, extend the term of— a a land transport document; or b a class or type of land transport document. 2 An extension— a may be granted before or after the expiry of the land transport document or the class or type of land transport document; and b must be for a specified period; and c may be amended, replaced, or revoked. 3 The Director must notify an extension granted under this section, and any amendment to, or replacement or revocation of, that extension, by,— a in the case of a particular land transport document, giving a notice to the holder of that land transport document: b in the case of a class or type of land transport document, publishing a notice— i in the Gazette ; and ii on an Internet site maintained by the Agency. 4 Any revocation of an extension to a land transport document or a class or type of land transport document must be notified in accordance with subsection (3) at least 5 working days before the revocation takes effect. 5 The notice must— a identify the particular land transport document or describe the class or type of land transport document that is extended; and b describe the emergency that has given rise to the extension; and c state the period of the extension or the amended or replaced period of extension, or that the extension has been revoked (whichever applies). 6 In this section,— class or type of land transport document includes— a a land transport document held by a class of persons; and b land transport documents of a particular type, including those that share a particular feature emergency means any of the following: a a state of emergency declared under the Civil Defence Emergency Management Act 2002: b an outbreak of disease that is the subject of an epidemic notice under the Epidemic Preparedness Act 2006: c any other event or circumstance that the Director and the Minister agree in writing may require a land transport document extension land transport document — a has the meaning given in section 2(1); and b includes a driver licence or permit that is held by a person who is deemed to hold a New Zealand driver licence under any rule or regulation. 209C Effect of extension under section 209B 1 A land transport document that is extended under section 209B , or that is in a class or of a type of land transport document that is extended under that section, is valid throughout the period of the extension, including any amended or replaced period of extension. 2 However, subsection (1) does not apply if— a the land transport document is invalid: b the land transport document is revoked, cancelled, superseded, or replaced: c the land transport document is suspended: d the holder of the land transport document is disqualified from holding that land transport document: e the holder of the land transport document is for any other reason prohibited under this Act from performing the actions that the land transport document authorises. 3 Subsection (1) does not limit or affect— a any power or enforcement function under this Act, or any other Act, or regulations or rules, in relation to a land transport document; or b the liability of the holder of a land transport document to pay any applicable fee, charge, or levy that is otherwise payable under this Act. 4 In this section,— class or type of land transport document includes— a a land transport document held by a class of persons; and b land transport documents of a particular type, including those that share a particular feature land transport document — a has the meaning given in section 2(1); and b includes a driver licence or permit that is held by a person who is deemed to hold a New Zealand driver licence under any rule or regulation. 57 Section 210 amended (How notices and requests are given, served, or made) After section 210(2)(c), insert: d sending an electronic notification to the person that states where they can access the notice or request electronically (if the person has agreed to that method of electronic notification and access). Replace section 210(3) with: 3 A notice or request that is sent to a person— a by post under subsection (2)(c)(i) must, unless the contrary is shown, be treated as having been given, sent, served, or made when it would have been delivered in the ordinary course of post and, in proving the delivery, it is sufficient to prove that the letter was properly addressed and posted: b at that person’s electronic address under subsection (2)(c)(ii) must, unless the contrary is shown, be treated as having been given, sent, served, or made at the time the electronic communication first enters an information system that is outside the control of the person giving or serving the notice or making the request and, in proving the sending, it is sufficient to prove that the electronic communication was properly addressed and sent: c in the way described in subsection (2)(d) must, unless the contrary is shown, be treated as having been given, sent, served, or made at the time the electronic communication containing the notification of the notice or request is listed as sent in the information system used to send the electronic communication and, in proving the sending, it is sufficient to prove that the electronic communication was properly addressed and sent. 58 Section 233 amended (Interpretation matters applying to this Part) In section 233(1), definition of personal information , after paragraph (c), insert: ca a mobile phone number that the person has given to an enforcement authority (or, otherwise, the person’s last known mobile phone number): 59 Section 242 amended (Motor vehicles must be registered and licensed) Replace section 242(1)(c) with: c has a current licence issued for it and appropriate for its use under section 244 that is— i displayed in the manner prescribed by regulations or rules made under this Part; or ii electronically available in the manner prescribed by the regulations or rules. 60 Section 249 amended (Circumstances when motor vehicle may be seized and impounded) After section 249(2)(b)(ia), insert: ib the mobile phone number of the driver (if the driver has a mobile phone number); and 61 Principal Act This Part amends the Land Transport Management Act 2003. 62 Section 5 amended (Interpretation) In section 5(1), replace the definition of road with: road — a means— i any land that is laid out by, or vested in, the Crown as a road: ii a road as defined in section 2(1) of the Government Roading Powers Act 1989: iii a motorway as defined in section 2(1) of the Government Roading Powers Act 1989 (despite the definition of road in that section); and b includes toll booths and other toll-related infrastructure on a road 63 Section 52 amended (Who is liable to pay toll) Replace section 52(3)(a) with: a the driver’s name, address, and electronic address (if the driver has an electronic address); or aa any particulars within the knowledge of the registered person that may lead to the identification of the person who was in charge or control of the vehicle at the relevant time; or Replace section 52(3A)(b) with: b sending it to the registered person’s electronic address; or c sending an electronic notification to the registered person that states where they can access the notice electronically (if the registered person has agreed to that method of electronic notification and access). Replace section 52(3B) with: 3B Unless the contrary is shown, a notice given under subsection (3) that is delivered— a by ordinary post under subsection (3A)(a) is treated as having been delivered 5 working days after the date on which it was posted: b to an electronic address under subsection (3A)(b) is treated as having been delivered at the time the electronic communication containing the notice first enters an information system that is outside the control of the person sending it: c in the way described in subsection (3A)(c) is treated as having been delivered at the time the electronic communication containing the notification of the notice is listed as sent in the information system used to send the electronic communication. After section 52(3B), insert: 3C For the purposes of subsection (3B)(b) and (c) , in proving the sending of an electronic communication, it is sufficient to prove that the electronic communication was properly addressed and sent. Replace section 52(6) with: 6 In this section,— emergency vehicle means a vehicle that is used for attendance at emergencies and operated— a as a Police vehicle: b as an ambulance service vehicle: c as a vehicle for the delivery of designated services (as defined in section 6 of the Fire and Emergency New Zealand Act 2017) by an employee, volunteer, or contractor of Fire and Emergency New Zealand information system means a system for producing, sending, receiving, storing, displaying, or otherwise processing electronic communications. 64 New section 103A inserted (Validation of declarations) After section 103, insert: 103A Validation of declarations 1 This section applies to— a a declaration under section 103 that a road is a State highway, that was made on or after 1 August 2008 and before the commencement of the Regulatory Systems (Transport) Amendment Act 2025 ; and b any action taken to enforce a declaration referred to in paragraph (a) . 2 A declaration, and any action taken to enforce it, is valid and remains in force, despite the road not meeting the definition of road in section 5(1) when the declaration was made. 3 Subsection (2) applies only to the extent that— a the Agency was otherwise acting lawfully in making the declaration or taking action to enforce it; and b in the case of a declaration, the declaration has not expired or been revoked on the date on which this section comes into force; and c in the case of action taken to enforce a declaration, the declaration had not expired or been revoked when the action was taken. 65 Principal Act This Part amends the Maritime Transport Act 1994. 66 Section 2 amended (Interpretation) In section 2(1), repeal the definition of Articles of Agreement . In section 2(1), replace the definition of conventions with: convention , in relation to this Part and Parts 3 to 15,— a means a convention, protocol, or agreement declared for the purposes of any of those Parts by Order in Council under subsection (2) ; and b includes every amendment to, or revision of, those instruments, being an amendment or a revision to which New Zealand is a party In section 2(1), definition of unit of account , delete , the calculation of which, in New Zealand currency, is in accordance with section 88 . In section 2(1), insert in their appropriate alphabetical order: electronic address includes an email address information system means a system for producing, sending, receiving, storing, displaying, or otherwise processing electronic communications seafarer recruitment and placement service means a person engaged in— a recruiting a person as a seafarer on behalf of an owner of a ship; or b placing a person as a seafarer with an owner of a ship Replace section 2(2) with: 2 The Governor-General may from time to time, by Order in Council, declare a specified international convention, protocol, or agreement to be a convention, protocol, or agreement for the purposes of 1 or more specified provisions of this Part and Parts 3 to 15 only if— a the convention, protocol, or agreement relates to maritime transport; and b New Zealand is a party to the convention, protocol, or agreement. 67 New section 21A inserted (Owner’s duty to enter into seafarer employment agreement) Before section 22, insert: 21A Owner’s duty to enter into seafarer employment agreement 1 The owner of a New Zealand ship (other than a pleasure craft) must, before the ship departs on a voyage, enter into an employment agreement with every seafarer employed to work on the voyage person on the voyage who is a seafarer within the meaning of paragraph (a)(i) of the definition of that term in section 2(1) (a seafarer employment agreement ). 2 The seafarer employment agreement must— a be in a form approved by the Director as meeting the requirements of the relevant convention; and b state how the agreement may be terminated, including the reasons set out in subsection (4)(a) to (c) . 3 The seafarer employment agreement must be displayed in a place on the ship that is easily accessible from the seafarers’ quarters. 4 A seafarer employment agreement terminates— a by the mutual consent of the owner and the seafarer: b on the death of the seafarer: c on the loss or unseaworthiness of the ship: d in any other circumstance that is specified in the agreement as a circumstance in respect of which the agreement terminates. 5 The owner must ensure that any termination of a seafarer employment agreement under subsection (4)(d) is by notice in writing. 68 Section 22 replaced (Employer’s duties in relation to seafarers of New Zealand ships on overseas voyages) Replace section 22 with: 22 Owner’s duties in relation to returning seafarer of New Zealand ship on overseas voyage 1 This section applies in respect of an overseas voyage of a New Zealand ship (other than a pleasure craft) if— a the voyage is terminated; or b a seafarer is left behind by the ship due to— i an injury sustained during the seafarer’s employment or work on the ship; or ii a shipwreck; or iii an illness that is not due to the seafarer’s own wilful act or default; or iv being discharged for any cause for which the seafarer cannot be held responsible. 2 The owner of the ship must arrange for the seafarer to return to— a the seafarer’s own country; or b the port where the seafarer began employment or work; or c the port where the voyage commenced; or d any other place that is agreed between the owner and the seafarer. 3 The owner of the ship may comply with subsection (2) by providing the seafarer with suitable employment or work on board a ship proceeding to any of the destinations specified in subsection (2)(a) to (d) . 4 If the owner does not comply with subsection (2) and the seafarer makes their own arrangements to return to a destination specified in subsection (2)(a) to (c) , the owner must reimburse the seafarer for reasonable expenses incurred by the seafarer in returning to that destination. 5 In this section,— overseas voyage means a voyage to a port outside New Zealand reasonable expenses — a means all reasonable transportation, accommodation, and food expenses, in respect of the period commencing when the seafarer is left behind and ending with the end of the return journey; and b includes maintenance in respect of the period commencing when the seafarer is left behind and ending with the departure time fixed for the seafarer’s return journey. 69 Section 23 amended (Employer’s duties in relation to seafarers on New Zealand ships) In the heading to section 23, replace Employer’s with Owner’s . In section 23(1), replace Every employer of seafarers on with An owner of . In section 23(1)(a), after provide , insert seafarers on board with . In section 23(1)(b), replace employer’s with owner’s . In section 23(1)(d), replace that employer with the owner . In section 23(1)(d), after in a form prescribed , insert by maritime rules . 70 Section 26 amended (Provisions relating to crewing of New Zealand ships and young persons) In section 26(2)(a), replace of an age that requires that person to be enrolled at a school with under the age of 16 years . In section 26(2)(b), replace as a trimmer or stoker with to undertake work that is likely to jeopardise the health or safety of the person . Repeal section 26(3) and (4). 71 Section 27 replaced (Prohibition on receiving remuneration for placing seafarers in employment) Replace section 27 with: 27 Restrictions on charging seafarers for recruitment and placement services 1 A seafarer recruitment and placement service or an owner of a ship must not directly or indirectly charge a person a fee for— a recruiting or placing that person into employment or work as a seafarer (whether directly or on behalf of an owner); or b providing that person with employment or work as a seafarer. 2 However, a seafarer recruitment and placement service or an owner of a ship may charge a person for the cost of obtaining, for the purposes of that person’s employment or work as a seafarer, 1 or more of the following: a a medical certificate of fitness (as required by maritime rules): b a book of records of the seafarer’s qualifications: c a passport: d any personal travel documents (other than a visa) that are necessary for the person to undertake their duties as a seafarer. 3 If a seafarer requires a visa in the course of their employment or work on a ship, the owner of that ship must pay the cost of the visa. 4 A seafarer recruitment and placement service or an owner of a ship who contravenes this section commits an offence and is liable on conviction,— a in the case of an individual, to a fine not exceeding $5,000: b in the case of a body corporate, to a fine not exceeding $30,000: c in either case, to an additional penalty under section 409. 72 Section 33F amended (Harbourmasters’ general powers) In section 33F(1)(g) and (h), replace his or her name and address with their name, address, and electronic address . 72A Section 33O amended (Infringement offences relating to navigation bylaws) In section 33O(1)(b), replace $1,000 with $3,000 for an individual or $12,000 in any other case . 73 Section 33P amended (Infringement notices) Replace section 33P(2) with: 2 An infringement notice is served if it, or a copy of it, is— a delivered personally to the person alleged to have committed the offence; or b posted to the last known place of residence or business of the person alleged to have committed the offence; or c sent by electronic means to the electronic address of the person alleged to have committed the offence. 2A An infringement notice, or a copy of it, is treated as served for the purposes of the Summary Proceedings Act 1957 ,— a if subsection (2)(b) applies, when the notice (or copy) would have been delivered in the ordinary course of post; or b if subsection (2)(c) applies, when the electronic communication containing the notice (or copy) first enters an information system that is outside the control of the person who served the notice under subsection (1). Replace section 33P(3)(c) with: c how the infringement fee may be paid; and After section 33P(4), insert: 5 Despite section 24(1)(e) of the Summary Proceedings Act 1957, a reminder notice may be served on a person for the purposes of section 21(2) of that Act by serving the notice in accordance with subsection (2)(c) in addition to the other methods of service set out in section 24(1) of that Act and without otherwise limiting or affecting the operation of section 24 of that Act. 6 In this section, unless the context otherwise requires, electronic address , in relation to a person, means— a an electronic address that the person has given to a harbourmaster, enforcement officer, or constable; or b otherwise, the last known electronic address of the person. 73A Section 33Q amended (Entitlement to infringement fees) In section 33Q(b)(i), delete or a navigation bylaw . 74 New section 33Y inserted (Minister of Conservation’s powers and responsibilities in relation to specified areas) After section 33X, insert: 33Y Minister of Conservation’s powers and responsibilities in relation to specified areas 1 In respect of the specified areas, the Minister of Conservation has the powers, duties, and responsibilities that a regional council would have under this Part. 2 The Minister of Conservation may exercise the powers, duties, and responsibilities under this Part— a as if the Minister of Conservation were a regional council that had the specified areas within its region; and b in the same manner, subject to the same restrictions, and with the same effect as if those powers, duties, and responsibilities had been conferred on them directly by those provisions. 3 In this section, specified areas means— a the Kermadec Islands and Sub-Antarctic Islands (which include the Antipodes Island Group, the Auckland Islands, the Bounty Islands, Campbell Island/Motu Ihupuku and the islands adjacent to Campbell Island/Motu Ihupuku, and the Snares Islands/Tini Heke); and b the New Zealand waters surrounding and within the islands specified in paragraph (a) . 75 Section 34 amended (Maritime rules relating to maritime documents) After section 34(1)(f), insert: fa seafarer recruitment and placement services: 76 Section 35 replaced (Application for maritime document) Replace section 35 with: 35 Requirements related to holders of, and applications for, maritime documents 1 The following applications must be made to the Director in the prescribed form or, if there is no prescribed form, in any form that the Director requires: a an application for the grant or renewal of a maritime document: b an application for the recognition of a document as a maritime document. 2 An application must include the applicant’s address for service in New Zealand and, if applicable,— a a phone number; and b a fax number; and c an electronic address. 3 The holder of a maritime document must, as soon as practicable, notify the Director of any change to the information provided under subsection (2) . 4 The Director must ensure that a record of all information provided under this section is maintained at the Maritime Registry. 5 Any notice, notification, or other document served under this Act on the holder of, or an applicant for, a maritime document is treated as served on that person if the notice, notification, or document is served at the address or electronic address last provided by that person. 77 Section 36 amended (Maritime rules relating to other matters) After section 36(1)(p), insert: pa standards or requirements for seafarer recruitment and placement services: Replace section 36(1)(u)(ii) with: ii to implement any international practices or standards relating to maritime transport or maritime labour that may, from time to time, be recommended by the International Maritime Organization or the International Labour Organization: 78 New section 54AA inserted (Inspections and audits of seafarer recruitment and placement services) After section 54, insert: 54AA Inspections and audits of seafarer recruitment and placement services 1 The Director may, in writing, require a seafarer recruitment and placement service to undergo an inspection or audit if the Director considers it necessary— a in the interests of maritime safety; or b in the interests of the health and safety of seafarers; or c for the purposes of any of Parts 1 to 15. 2 The Director may carry out the inspection or audit as the Director considers necessary. 3 For the purpose of carrying out the inspection or audit, the Director may, in writing, require the seafarer recruitment and placement service to provide any information the Director considers relevant to the inspection or audit. 79 Section 54A amended (Power of Director to investigate holder of maritime document) Replace section 54A(1)(b)(i) with: i has reasonable grounds to suspect that the maritime document holder has failed to comply with any of the requirements in section 17; or 80 Section 58 amended (Powers of investigation of Director) Replace section 58(3) with: 3 A summons under this section may be served— a in the same manner as a summons served under section 5 of the Commissions of Inquiry Act 1908, and that section applies accordingly with any necessary modifications; or b by electronic means at the last known electronic address of the person summoned. 3A For the purposes of subsection (3)(b) ,— a a summons is treated as served when the electronic communication containing the summons first enters an information system that is outside the control of the person who served the summons; and b a summons must be served at least 5 days before the person’s attendance is required under subsection (1)(b). 81 Section 64 amended (Unnecessary danger caused by holder of maritime document) In section 64(2)(a), replace $10,000 with $150,000 . In section 64(2)(b), replace $100,000 with $1,500,000 . 82 Section 65 amended (Dangerous activity involving ships or maritime products) In section 65(3)(a), replace $10,000 with $50,000 . In section 65(3)(b), replace $100,000 with $1,500,000 . 83 Section 65A amended (Proceeding without pilot contrary to maritime rules or direction given under section 60A) In section 65A(1)(a), replace $10,000 with $150,000 . In section 65A(1)(b), replace $100,000 with $1,500,000 . 84 Section 67 amended (Communicating false information affecting safety) In section 67(2)(a), replace $10,000 with $50,000 . In section 67(2)(b), replace $100,000 with $1,500,000 . 85 Section 67A amended (Offence for submerged load lines) In section 67A(3)(a), replace $10,000 with $150,000 . In section 67A(3)(b), replace $100,000 with $1,500,000 . 86 Section 67B amended (Other offences) In section 67B(2)(a), replace $10,000 with $50,000 . In section 67B(2)(b), replace $100,000 with $1,500,000 . 87 Section 88 replaced (Units of account) Replace section 88 with: 88 Certification of units of account for purposes of this Part 1 For the purposes of paragraph 1 of Article 8 of the LLMC Convention (as amended by the LLMC Protocol), a certificate given by or on behalf of the Secretary to the Treasury must, in any proceedings, be received in evidence and, in the absence of proof to the contrary, be sufficient evidence of the value of the New Zealand currency. 2 A certificate given under subsection (1) must state— a that a particular sum in New Zealand currency has been fixed as the equivalent of 1 unit of account for a particular date; or b that no sum has been fixed for that date, and that a particular sum has been fixed for the date most recently preceding the particular date. 88 Section 189 amended (Maritime Registry) In section 189(2)(f), after service , insert (including the electronic address for service) . 89 Section 191 amended (Maritime levies) In section 191(1), after ships , insert and floating production, storage, and offloading units . In section 191(3), replace ship with ship or floating production, storage, and offloading unit in each place. 90 Section 200B amended (Special enforcement powers may be exercised when this section applies) In section 200B(2)(e), replace his or her name and address with their name, address, and electronic address . 91 Section 201 amended (Regulations) In section 201(1)(b), delete , or breaches of navigation bylaws, . In section 201(1)(c)(i), replace $10,000 with $15,000 . In section 201(1)(d)(i), replace $2,000 with $3,000 . 92 Section 222 amended (Interpretation) In section 222(1), replace the definition of marine protection convention with: marine protection convention , in relation to this Part and Parts 19 to 27,— a means any international convention, protocol, or agreement declared for the purposes of any of those Parts by Order in Council under subsection (4) ; and b includes every amendment to, or revision of, those instruments, being an amendment or a revision to which New Zealand is a party Replace section 222(4) with: 4 The Governor-General may from time to time, by Order in Council, declare a specified international convention, protocol, or agreement to be a marine protection convention for the purposes of 1 or more specified provisions of this Part and Parts 19 to 27 only if— a the convention, protocol, or agreement relates to protecting the marine environment from pollution; and b New Zealand is a party to the convention, protocol, or agreement. 93 Section 235 amended (Powers of investigation of Director) Replace section 235(4) with: 4 A summons under this section may be served— a in the same manner as a summons served under section 5 of the Commissions of Inquiry Act 1908, and that section applies accordingly with any necessary modifications; or b by electronic means at the last known electronic address of the person summoned. 4A For the purposes of subsection (4)(b) ,— a a summons is treated as served when the electronic communication containing the summons first enters an information system that is outside the control of the person who served the summons; and b a summons must be served at least 5 days before the person’s attendance is required under subsection (2)(b) . 94 Section 246E amended (Director’s powers) Replace section 246E(4) with: 4 A summons under this section may be served— a in the same manner as a summons served under section 5 of the Commissions of Inquiry Act 1908, and that section applies accordingly with any necessary modifications; or b by electronic means at the last known electronic address of the person summoned. 4A For the purposes of subsection (4)(b) ,— a a summons is treated as served when the electronic communication containing the summons first enters an information system that is outside the control of the person who served the summons; and b a summons must be served at least 5 days before the person’s attendance is required under subsection (2)(b)(i) . 95 Section 269 replaced (Application for marine protection document) Replace section 269 with: 269 Requirements related to holders of, and applications for, marine protection documents 1 The following applications must be made to the Director in the prescribed form or, if there is no prescribed form, in any form that the Director requires: a an application for the grant or renewal of a marine protection document: b an application for the recognition of a document as a marine protection document. 2 An application must include the applicant’s address for service in New Zealand and, if applicable,— a a phone number; and b a fax number; and c an electronic address. 3 The holder of a marine protection document must, as soon as practicable, notify the Director of any change to the information provided under subsection (2) . 4 The Director must ensure that a record of all information provided under this section is maintained at the Maritime Registry. 5 Any notice, notification, or other document served under this Act on the holder of, or an applicant for, a marine protection document is treated as served on that person if the notice, notification, or document is served at the address or electronic address last provided by that person. 96 Section 347 amended (Limits of liability of CLC shipowners for oil pollution damage) After section 347(2), insert: 2A For the purposes of subsection (2) and any order made under that subsection, in any proceedings a certificate given by or on behalf of the Secretary to the Treasury— a must be received in evidence; and b in the absence of proof to the contrary, is sufficient evidence of the value of the New Zealand currency for the purposes of paragraph 9(a) of Article V of the Civil Liability Convention. 2B A certificate given under subsection (2A) must state— a that a particular sum in New Zealand currency has been fixed as the equivalent of 1 unit of account for a particular date; or b that no sum has been fixed for that date, and that a particular sum has been fixed for the date most recently preceding the particular date. 97 Section 394 amended (Regulations) In section 394(1)(f)(i), replace $10,000 with $15,000 . In section 394(1)(g)(i), replace $2,000 with $3,000 . 98 Section 409 amended (Additional penalty for offence involving commercial gain) In section 409(1), after offence against section , insert 27 , . 99 Section 423 amended (Infringement notices) Replace section 423(2)(c) with: c by sending it by electronic means to that person at their electronic address; or d if the person being served with the notice is a holder of a maritime document or marine protection document,— i by serving it by post on that person at their last address for service provided under section 35 or 269 ; or ii by sending it by electronic means to that person at their last electronic address for service provided under section 35 or 269 . Replace section 423(3) with: 3 An infringement notice is treated as served on a person under subsection (2),— a if sent by post under subsection (2)(b) or (d)(i) , when it would have been delivered in the ordinary course of post; or b if sent by electronic means under subsection (2)(c) or (d)(ii) , when the electronic communication containing the notice first enters an information system that is outside the control of the person who issued the notice under subsection (1). Replace section 423(4)(c) with: c how the infringement fee may be paid: After section 423(6), insert: 7 Despite section 24(1)(e) of the Summary Proceedings Act 1957, a reminder notice may be served on a person for the purposes of section 21(2) of that Act by serving the notice in accordance with subsection (2)(c) or (d)(ii) in addition to the other methods of service set out in section 24(1) of that Act and without otherwise limiting or affecting the operation of section 24 of that Act. 8 In this section, unless the context otherwise requires, electronic address , in relation to a person, means— a an electronic address that the person has given to the relevant issuer of the notice; or b otherwise, the last known electronic address of the person. 100 Section 446 replaced (Procedure for making of rules by Minister) Replace section 446 with: 446 Procedure for Minister to make rules Before making any rule under this Act, the Minister must— a publish a notice of their proposal to make the rule, which must specify a reasonable time for interested persons to make submissions on the proposal; and b consult any persons the Minister considers appropriate, which may include— i representative groups within the maritime industry or elsewhere; and ii government departments; and iii Crown entities; and iv regional councils or other local authorities in respect of rules made under— A Part 4 , to the extent that the rules relate to pilotage or harbourmasters; or B Part 27 . 101 Section 458 amended (Service of documents) Replace section 458(a) with: a in any case,— i by delivering a copy personally to the person concerned; or ii by leaving a copy at their last known place of residence; or iii by sending a copy by electronic means to their electronic address; or In section 458, insert as subsection (2): 2 For the purposes of sending a document, notice, notification, or instructions (a document ) by electronic means under this section, the electronic address must be— a an electronic address that the person being sent the document has given to the relevant issuer of the document; or b otherwise, the last known electronic address of the person being sent the document. 101A Schedule 1AA amended In Schedule 1AA,— a insert the Part set out in Schedule 1AA of this Act as the last Part; and b make all necessary consequential amendments. 102 Principal Act This Part amends the Railways Act 2005. 103 Section 4 amended (Interpretation) In section 4(1), insert in their appropriate alphabetical order: information system , in relation to an electronic communication, means a system for producing, sending, receiving, storing, displaying, or otherwise processing electronic communications inspector means a person appointed under section 72X issuing officer has the same meaning as in section 3(1) of the Search and Surveillance Act 2012 State services has the same meaning as in section 5 of the Public Service Act 2020 104 Section 20 amended (Register of licences) After section 20(2)(b), insert: ba the holder’s electronic address (if the holder has an electronic address): 105 Section 21 amended (Conditions of licences) In section 21(3)(d) and (4)(d), replace full name and address with full name, address, and electronic address (if any) . 105A Section 27 amended (Rights of persons affected in relation to adverse decisions) After section 27(5), insert: 5A If the adverse decision in question is a decision to issue an improvement notice under section 72K , references to the Director in this section are to be treated as references to the person who issues or proposes to issue an improvement notice under section 72K . In section 27(6), definition of adverse decision , after paragraph (f), insert: g to issue an improvement notice under section 72K 106 Section 35 amended (Procedure for replacement or variation of approved safety case) After section 35(2), insert: 2A The Director may require further information from the licence holder if the information is reasonably necessary in order to make a decision under subsection (2)(a). 2B If the Director requires and receives further information from the licence holder, any working days that fall between the day on which the Director requires the information and the day on which the Director receives the information are excluded from the 20-working-day time frames specified in subsections (1) and (2). 107 Section 36 amended (Safety improvement plans) After section 36(1), insert: 1A The Director may require a rail participant to prepare a safety improvement plan under subsection (1) despite an improvement notice also being issued to the rail participant under section 72K . 108 Section 37 amended (Ordinary and special safety assessments) After section 37(2)(h), insert: ha the result of any investigation into an accident or incident under Part 2A : 109 Section 68 amended (Appeal to District Court) Replace section 68(1) with: 1 A person may appeal to the District Court against a decision relating to that person that is made by any of the following, if dissatisfied with that decision: a the Agency: b the Director: c a person issuing a notice under section 72K or 72O . In section 68(2), replace the Agency or the Director with the Agency, the Director, or an inspector . 110 New Part 2A inserted After section 72, insert: 2A Investigating accidents and incidents Subpart 1 Powers to enter, inspect, and obtain information 72A Powers in this Part are subject to section 14(3) of Transport Accident Investigation Commission Act 1990 The powers specified in this Part are subject to the limitations set out in section 14(3) of the Transport Accident Investigation Commission Act 1990. 72B Director and other persons investigating accident or incident must co-ordinate investigations 1 This section applies if an accident or incident is being investigated by an inspector and 1 or more of the following investigators ( specified investigators ): a the Commission: b the New Zealand Police: c the regulator, an inspector, or any other person authorised under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (in accordance with the memorandum of understanding specified in section 8(2) of this Act). 2 The Director and the specified investigator or specified investigators must take reasonable steps to co-ordinate their respective investigations. 72C Powers to obtain information 1 For the purpose of investigating an accident or incident, an inspector may, at any reasonable time, require a rail participant or rail personnel to do either or both of the following: b answer questions that relate to the accident or incident or the investigation of it: c provide all other information that the inspector may reasonably require for the purposes of the investigation. 4 Nothing in this section affects the application of section 60 of the Evidence Act 2006. 72D Powers of entry and inspection 2 For the purpose of investigating an accident or incident, an inspector may, at any reasonable time, enter a vehicle, building, or place that— a belongs to a rail participant or rail personnel; or b is used by a rail participant or rail personnel in that participant’s or personnel’s rail activities. 3 On entering the vehicle, building, or place, the inspector may, for the purposes of the investigation,— a conduct examinations, tests, inquiries, and inspections: b be accompanied and assisted by any other person, and bring into the vehicle, building, or place any equipment necessary to investigate the accident or incident: c take photographs and measurements and make sketches and recordings: d require the person who is or appears to be in charge of the vehicle, building, or place to ensure that the vehicle, building, or place, or anything inside it, is not disturbed for a reasonable period pending examination, testing, inquiry, or inspection: e require the person who is or appears to be in charge of the vehicle, building, or place to— i produce information relating to the vehicle, building, or place, the activities carried out there, or any person who carries out any or all of those activities; and ii produce information relating to the rail participant’s or rail personnel’s compliance with this Act or with any rules or regulations; and iii permit the inspector to examine and make copies of, or take extracts from, the information. 5 An inspector may do any of the things referred to in subsection (3) whether or not— a the inspector or the person the inspector is dealing with is in the vehicle, building, or place; or b the information is— i in the vehicle, building, or place; or ii in the place where the inspector is; or iii in another place. 6 Nothing in this section affects the application of section 60 of the Evidence Act 2006. 7 For the purposes of this section, if the inspector considers it necessary to enter any other building or land in order to get to the vehicle, building, or place, the inspector may do so after taking any steps that the inspector considers reasonable in the circumstances to obtain the consent of the occupier of the building or land. 8 In this section, information includes any document. 2023 No 10 s 284; 2015 No 70 s 168 72E Power to enter homes or marae 1 Despite section 72D , an inspector must not, except with the consent of an occupier or pursuant to a warrant issued under subsection (2) , enter a vehicle, building, or place referred to in section 72D(2) — a that is, or is within, a home, a marae, or a building associated with a marae; or b by going through a home, a marae, or a building associated with a marae. 2 An issuing officer may, on an application made by an inspector in the manner provided in subpart 3 of Part 4 of the Search and Surveillance Act 2012, issue a warrant to enter a home (or part of a home), a marae (or part of a marae), or a building associated with a marae (or part of a building associated with a marae) if the issuing officer is satisfied that there are reasonable grounds to believe that the home, marae, or building associated with a marae— a is, or has inside it, a vehicle, building, or place referred to in section 72D(2) ; or b is the only practicable means through which the inspector may enter a vehicle, building, or place referred to in section 72D(2) . 3 A warrant issued under subsection (2) authorises an inspector to enter the home, marae, or building associated with a marae only to exercise the powers specified in section 72D . 2023 No 10 s 285; 2015 No 70 s 169 72F Notice of entry If an inspector enters a vehicle, building, or place under section 72D or 72E and is unable, despite reasonable efforts, to find any person in charge, the inspector must, before leaving the vehicle, building, or place, leave a written notice stating— a the inspector’s identity; and b the inspector’s electronic address and any other contact information the inspector wishes to provide; and c the date and time of entry; and d the inspector’s reasons for entering. 2023 No 10 s 286; 2015 No 70 s 171 72G Power to take samples and other objects and things 1 An inspector exercising a power under section 72D or 72E to enter a vehicle, building, or place referred to in section 72D(2) may, for the purpose of investigating the accident or incident, take or remove from that vehicle, building, or place a sample of any material, substance, or thing for analysis, or seize and retain any material, substance, or thing, in order to— b monitor activities being carried out in that vehicle, building, or place; or c determine the nature of any material or substance in that vehicle, building, or place; or d determine whether this Act or any rules or regulations have been, or are being, contravened. 2 This section does not allow an inspector to take a sample from a person's body unless the inspector has the person's informed consent to take the sample. 3 If an inspector removes or retains any sample, material, substance, or thing under subsection (1) , the inspector must,— a when the inspector removes or retains the sample, material, substance, or thing or as soon as practicable after doing so, give the rail participant or rail personnel written notice of— i what has been (or is being) removed or retained; and ii why it has been (or is being) removed or retained; and iii where it will be kept in the meantime; and b subject to subsections (4) and (5) , within 5 working days of removing or retaining any sample, material, substance, or thing, give the rail participant or rail personnel written notice of whether the inspector intends to return it or destroy it. 4 If it is practicable to do so, the inspector must return the sample, material, substance, or thing to its owner— a when it is no longer required for any purpose under this Act or any other legislation; or b if a court orders its earlier return. 5 The inspector may destroy any removed or retained sample, material, substance, or thing if— a it is perishable and has become rotten or has otherwise deteriorated; or b it is perishable and is likely to become rotten or perish before it can be dealt with under subsection (4) ; or c it is likely to pose a risk to public health. 6 In addition, sections 154 , 155 , and 159 of the Search and Surveillance Act 2012 apply in relation to any sample, material, substance, or thing removed or retained. 7 The provisions of the Search and Surveillance Act 2012 referred to in subsection (6) apply as if— a the reference in section 159(1) of that Act to a person described in section 156(2) were to— i any person from whom the sample, material, substance, or thing was seized: ii the owner: iii any other person who, in the opinion of the inspector, may be affected by the forfeiture of the sample, material, substance, or thing; and b references to a thing were to any sample, material, substance, or thing; and c references to seized or produced were to removed or retained; and d references to the person in whose custody the thing is were to the inspector; and e all other necessary modifications were made. 8 Any sample, material, substance, or thing forfeited to the Crown may be destroyed or otherwise disposed of as the inspector directs. 2023 No 10 s 287; 2015 No 70 s 172 72H Power of entry (by consent or under warrant) if Director suspects contravention 1 The Director may authorise a specified person to enter and search a vehicle, building, or place for the purpose of ascertaining whether an accident or incident was caused by a person engaging in conduct that contravenes or may contravene a provision of this Act or any rules or regulations. 2 Subsection (1) applies only if the Director is satisfied that there are reasonable grounds— a to suspect that the person has engaged in or is engaging in conduct that constitutes or may constitute such a contravention; and b to suspect that the contravention has caused the accident or incident; and c to believe that the search will find evidential material in or on any part of the vehicle, building, or place. 3 A specified person authorised under subsection (1) may enter and search the vehicle, building, or place if— a the occupier or person in charge of the vehicle, building, or place consents; or b the specified person obtains a warrant under subsection (4) . 4 An issuing officer may issue a search warrant in relation to a vehicle, building, or place on an application made in the manner provided by subpart 3 of Part 4 of the Search and Surveillance Act 2012 by a specified person authorised under subsection (1) , if the issuing officer is satisfied that there are reasonable grounds— a to suspect that a person has engaged in or is engaging in conduct that contravenes or may contravene a provision of this Act or any rules or regulations; and b to suspect that the contravention has caused the accident or incident; and c to believe that the search will find evidential material in or on any part of the vehicle, building, or place. 5 In this section, specified person means— a an inspector; or b a constable; or c an employee of the Agency; or d any other person who the Director is satisfied is suitably qualified and trained, or belongs to a class of persons who are suitably qualified and trained, to act under this section. 6 Despite subsection (5) , a constable may apply for a warrant to be issued under subsection (4) without an authorisation from the Director under subsection (1) . 7 Subpart 2 of Part 3 and Part 4 of the Search and Surveillance Act 2012 apply, with any necessary modifications, to any search under this section. 8 Despite subsection (7) , sections 118 and 119 of the Search and Surveillance Act 2012 apply only in respect of a constable. 2023 No 10 s 288; 2015 No 70 s 173 72I Continuation of powers of entry and inspection without search warrants An inspector who, in the course of exercising a power under section 72D or 72E , finds evidence of a contravention of this Act (or any rules or regulations) that caused an accident or incident is not required to obtain a search warrant under section 72H to continue exercising powers under section 72D or 72E . 2023 No 10 s 289; 2015 No 70 s 174 72IA Power to require name, address, and date of birth 1 For the purpose of investigating an accident or incident, an inspector may require a rail participant or rail personnel to provide the rail participant’s or rail personnel’s name, residential address, and date of birth if the inspector finds the participant or personnel— a committing an offence against this Act or any rules or regulations; or b in circumstances that lead, or with information that leads, the inspector to reasonably suspect that the rail participant or rail personnel has committed an offence against this Act or against any rules or regulations. 2 When requiring a rail participant or rail personnel to provide their name, residential address, and date of birth, the inspector must— a tell the rail participant or rail personnel the reason for the requirement; and b warn the rail participant or rail personnel that it is an offence to fail to provide their name, residential address, and date of birth unless the rail participant or rail personnel has a reasonable excuse. 3 If the inspector reasonably believes that the name, residential address, or date of birth that a rail participant or rail personnel provides is false, the inspector may require the rail participant or rail personnel to give evidence of its correctness. 4 A rail participant or rail personnel must not, without reasonable excuse, refuse or fail to comply with a requirement under subsection (1) or (3) . 5 A rail participant or rail personnel who breaches subsection (4) commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $10,000. 72IB Offence to fail to comply with or assist, or to intentionally obstruct, inspector 1 A rail participant or rail personnel must give all reasonable assistance to enable an inspector to enter, inspect, examine, inquire, or exercise any other power under this Act. 2 A person commits an offence if they— a breach subsection (1) ; or b refuse or fail to comply with a requirement of an inspector under this Act; or c intentionally obstruct or intentionally impede an inspector exercising their powers under this Act. 3 A person who commits an offence against this section is liable on conviction,— a in the case of an individual, to a fine not exceeding $10,000: b in any other case, to a fine not exceeding $50,000. 72J Immunity of inspectors and persons assisting inspectors or Director 1 An inspector is immune from civil and criminal liability for any act done in good faith in the exercise, or intended exercise, of any of the inspector’s powers under this Act if— a the inspector exercises the power in a reasonable manner; and b the inspector believes on reasonable grounds that the preconditions for the exercise of that power have been satisfied. 2 A person is immune from civil and criminal liability for any act done in good faith and in a reasonable manner when assisting an inspector or the Director to exercise the inspector’s or the Director’s powers under this Act. 3 In any civil proceeding in which a person asserts that the person has an immunity under this section, the onus is on that person to prove the facts necessary to establish the basis of that claim. 2023 No 10 s 294; 2015 No 70 s 177 Subpart 2 Improvement notices and non-disturbance notices Improvement notices 72K Power to issue improvement notices 1 This section applies if, in the course of investigating an accident or incident, an inspector reasonably believes that a rail participant or rail personnel— a has contravened a provision of this Act or any rules or regulations; and b that contravention has— i caused the accident or incident; or ii made the accident or incident more likely to happen. 2 The inspector may issue an improvement notice requiring the rail participant or rail personnel to— a remedy the contravention; or b remedy the things or activities that caused, or are causing, the contravention; or c protect against a future contravention. 3 A decision to issue an improvement notice may be appealed under section 68. 2023 No 10 s 298; 2015 No 70 s 101 72L Content of improvement notices 1 An improvement notice must state— a that the inspector believes that— i the rail participant or rail personnel has contravened this Act (or a rule or regulation); and ii the contravention has, in relation to an accident or incident,— A caused the accident or incident; or B made the accident or incident more likely to happen; and b the provision that the inspector believes has been contravened; and c briefly, how that provision has been contravened; and d a reasonable period within which the rail participant or rail personnel must— i remedy the contravention; or ii remedy the things or activities that caused, or are causing, the contravention; or iii prevent a future contravention. 2 An improvement notice may include recommendations concerning— a the measures that the rail participant or rail personnel could take to remedy the contravention or prevent a future contravention to which the notice relates: b the things or activities causing the contravention to which the notice relates. 2023 No 10 s 299; 2015 No 70 s 102 72M Compliance with improvement notice 1 A rail participant or rail personnel who has been issued with an improvement notice must comply with the notice within the period specified in the notice. 2 A rail participant or rail personnel who breaches subsection (1) commits an offence and is liable on conviction,— a in the case of an individual, to a fine not exceeding $50,000: b in any other case, to a fine not exceeding $250,000. 3 To avoid doubt, a failure to comply with a recommendation under section 72L(2) is not, in itself, an offence. 2023 No 10 s 300; 2015 No 70 s 103 72N Extension of time for compliance with improvement notices 1 This section applies if a rail participant or rail personnel has been issued with an improvement notice. 2 An inspector may, by written notice given to the rail participant or rail personnel, extend the compliance period for the improvement notice. 3 However, the inspector may extend the compliance period only if the period has not ended. 4 In this section, compliance period — a means the period stated in the improvement notice; and b includes any extension of that period under this section. 2023 No 10 s 301; 2015 No 70 s 104 Non-disturbance notices 72O Power to issue non-disturbance notice 1 An inspector may issue a non-disturbance notice to a rail participant or rail personnel in respect of a vehicle, building, or place that— a belongs to the rail participant or rail personnel; or b is used by the rail participant or rail personnel in that participant’s or personnel’s rail activities. 2 An inspector may only issue a non-disturbance notice under subsection (1) if the inspector reasonably believes that it is necessary to do so to facilitate the inspector’s investigation into an accident or incident under this Part. 3 A decision to issue a non-disturbance notice may be appealed under section 68. 2023 No 10 s 302; 2015 No 70 s 108 72P Content of non-disturbance notice 1 A non-disturbance notice may require the person to whom the notice was issued to preserve, or prevent the disturbance of, a vehicle, building, or place specified in section 72O(1) for a specified period. 2 A non-disturbance notice must specify the period (not exceeding 7 days) for which it applies and set out— a the obligations of the person to whom the notice is issued; and b the measures to be taken to preserve a vehicle, building, or place or prevent the disturbance of a vehicle, building, or place; and c the penalty for refusing or failing to comply with the notice. 3 A non-disturbance notice does not prevent any action— a to assist an injured person; or b to remove a deceased person; or c that is essential to make the vehicle, building, or place safe or to prevent an accident or incident; or d that is done by, or under the direction of, a constable acting in the execution of the constable’s duties; or e for which an inspector or the Director has given permission. 4 A non-disturbance notice does not apply to the site of any accident or incident being investigated by the Commission. 2023 No 10 s 303; 2015 No 70 s 109 72Q Compliance with non-disturbance notice 1 A rail participant or rail personnel must not, without reasonable excuse, refuse or fail to comply with a non-disturbance notice issued to them. 2 A rail participant or rail personnel who breaches subsection (1) commits an offence and is liable on conviction,— a in the case of an individual, to a fine not exceeding $50,000: b in any other case, to a fine not exceeding $250,000. 2023 No 10 s 304; 2015 No 70 s 110 72R Issue of subsequent non-disturbance notices 1 If an inspector considers it necessary to do so, the inspector may issue 1 or more subsequent non-disturbance notices to a rail participant or rail personnel, whether before or after the expiry of the previous notice. 2 A subsequent non-disturbance notice issued under subsection (1) must comply with sections 72O and 72P . 2023 No 10 s 305; 2015 No 70 s 111 General provisions relating to improvement notices and non-disturbance notices 72S Improvement notices and non-disturbance notices must be in writing and may be addressed in certain way 1 An improvement notice or a non-disturbance notice must be in writing. 2 The notice may be addressed to the rail participant or rail personnel under that participant’s or personnel’s legal name or usual business name or style. 2023 No 10 s 306; 2015 No 70 s 112 72T Inspector may vary or cancel improvement notice or non-disturbance notice An inspector may vary or cancel an improvement notice or a non-disturbance notice. 2023 No 10 s 308; 2015 No 70 s 114 72U Formal irregularities or defects in improvement notice or non-disturbance notice An improvement notice or a non-disturbance notice is not invalid merely because of— a any defect, irregularity, omission, or want of form in the notice unless it causes or is likely to cause a miscarriage of justice; or b a failure to use the correct name of the person to whom the notice is issued if the notice sufficiently identifies the person and is issued to the person in accordance with section 72S . 2023 No 10 s 309; 2015 No 70 s 115 72V Display of notice by person issued with improvement notice or non-disturbance notice 1 Unless an inspector permits otherwise, a rail participant or rail personnel to whom an improvement notice or a non-disturbance notice is issued must, as soon as practicable, display a copy of the notice in a prominent position at or near the vehicle, building, or place, or part of a vehicle, building, or place, at which activity is being carried out that is affected by the notice. 2 If a notice is displayed under subsection (1) and is in force, no person may intentionally— a remove or destroy the notice; or b damage or deface the notice. 3 A person who breaches subsection (1) or (2) commits an offence and is liable on conviction,— a in the case of an individual, to a fine not exceeding $5,000: b in any other case, to a fine not exceeding $25,000. 2023 No 10 s 311; 2015 No 70 s 117 72W Inspector may display improvement notice or non-disturbance notice An inspector who issues an improvement notice or a non-disturbance notice may, before or after issuing the notice, display a copy of the notice in a prominent place at or near the vehicle, building, or place at which activity is being carried out that is affected by the notice. 2023 No 10 s 312; 2015 No 70 s 118 Subpart 3 Inspectors 72X Appointment of inspectors 1 The Director may, by notice in writing, appoint any person as an inspector, including— a an employee of the State services: b a statutory officer (including a safety assessor and an enforcement officer): c an employee or a contractor of the Agency. 2 The Director must not appoint a person as an inspector unless the Director is satisfied that the person has appropriate experience, technical competence, and qualifications relevant to the powers proposed to be exercised by an inspector under this Act. 3 An inspector may exercise the powers of an inspector under this Act that the Director specifies in the notice of the inspector’s appointment. 4 An inspector's powers are subject to any conditions or limitations specified in the notice of the inspector's appointment. 5 However, the exercise of the power by an inspector is not invalid merely because it did not comply with the conditions specified in the notice of the inspector's appointment. 2023 No 10 s 331; 2015 No 70 s 163 72Y Identity cards 1 The Director must give each inspector an identity card that— a states the person's name and appointment as an inspector; and b includes any other matter prescribed by regulations or rules. 2 An inspector must, when exercising their powers under this Act, produce their identity card for inspection on request. 3 A person who ceases to be an inspector must as soon as practicable return their identity card to the Director. 2023 No 10 s 333; 2015 No 70 s 164 72Z Suspension and ending of appointment of inspectors 1 The Director may suspend or end the appointment of an inspector at any time. 2 To avoid doubt, a person's appointment as an inspector ends when the person ceases to be eligible for appointment as an inspector. 2023 No 10 s 334; 2015 No 70 s 165 72ZA Inspectors subject to Director’s directions 1 An inspector (whether or not an employee) is subject to directions from the Director in the exercise of the inspector's powers. 2 A direction under subsection (1) may be of a general nature or may relate to a specified matter or specified class of matter. 3 A failure to comply with a direction under subsection (1) does not invalidate the exercise of an inspector's power. 2023 No 10 s 335; 2015 No 70 s 166 72ZB Director has powers of inspector The Director has all the powers that an inspector has under this Act. 2023 No 10 s 336; 2015 No 70 s 167 111 Section 94 amended (Notices) After section 94(1)(b), insert: ba sent to the person’s usual or last known electronic address; or bb given by sending an electronic notification to that person that states where they can access the notice electronically (if the person has agreed to that method of electronic notification and access); or After section 94(1), insert: 1A In addition to the methods specified in subsection (1), an improvement notice or non-disturbance notice issued under section 72K or 72O may be issued to a rail participant or rail personnel— a by leaving it for the rail participant or rail personnel at the vehicle, building, or place to which the notice relates with a person who is or appears to be in charge of that vehicle, building, or place; or b by leaving it for the rail participant or rail personnel at their usual or last known place of residence or business with a person who appears to be 16 years of age or over and who appears to reside or work there; or c if the rail participant holds a licence, by delivering the notice to the rail participant’s address shown in the register under section 20. Replace section 94(2) and (3) with: 2 A notice (including an improvement notice or a non-disturbance notice) or other document sent— a by post is, unless the contrary is shown, treated as being given, served, or received 7 days after the date on which it was posted: b to a person’s electronic address is, unless the contrary is shown, treated as being given, served, or received at the time the electronic communication containing the notice first enters an information system that is outside the control of the person giving or serving the notice or document: c in the way described in subsection (1)(bb) is, unless the contrary is shown, treated as being given, served, or received at the time the electronic communication containing the notification of the notice is listed as sent in the information system used to send the electronic communication. 3 For the purposes of subsection (2)(b) and (c) , in proving the sending of an electronic communication, it is sufficient to prove that the electronic communication was properly addressed and sent. 112 Section 99 amended (Issue of infringement notice) After section 99(2)(b), insert: ba by sending it, or a copy of it, to that person’s usual or last known electronic address; or bb by sending an electronic notification to that person that states where they can access the notice, or a copy of it, electronically (if the person has agreed to that method of electronic notification and access); or Replace section 99(3) with: 3 An infringement notice sent— a to a person by post under subsection (2)(b) or (c) is, unless the contrary is shown, treated as having been served on the person 7 days after the date on which it was posted: b to a person’s electronic address under subsection (2)(ba) is, unless the contrary is shown, treated as having been served on the person at the time the electronic communication containing the infringement notice first enters an information system that is outside the control of the person serving the notice: c in the way described in subsection (2)(bb) is, unless the contrary is shown, treated as having been served on the person at the time the electronic communication containing the notification of the infringement notice is listed as sent in the information system used to send the electronic communication. 4 For the purposes of subsection (3)(b) and (c) , in proving the sending of an electronic communication, it is sufficient to prove that the electronic communication was properly addressed and sent. Service of reminder notice 5 Despite section 24(1)(e) of the Summary Proceedings Act 1957, a reminder notice may be served on a person for the purposes of section 21(2) of that Act by serving the notice in accordance with subsection (2)(ba) or (bb) in addition to the other modes of service set out in section 24(1) of that Act and without otherwise limiting or affecting the operation of section 24 of that Act. 113 Principal Act This Part amends the Road User Charges Act 2012. 114 Section 55 amended (Review of assessment) Replace section 55(2)(b) with: b include the applicant’s full name, address, and any mobile phone number, other phone number, and electronic address that the applicant has; and 115 Schedule 2 amended In Schedule 2, replace clause 1(3)(c) with: c by sending the notice to the person’s electronic address: ca by sending an electronic notification to the person that states where they can access the notice electronically (if the person has agreed to that method of electronic notification and access): In Schedule 2, replace clause 1(4) with: 4 For the purposes of subclause (3), a notice sent— a by post is, unless the contrary is shown, treated as having been given at the time the notice would have been delivered in the ordinary course of the post: b to an electronic address is, unless the contrary is shown, treated as having been delivered at the time the electronic communication containing the notice first enters an information system that is outside the control of the person giving the notice: c in the way described in subclause (3)(ca) is, unless the contrary is shown, treated as having been delivered at the time the electronic communication containing the notification of the notice is listed as sent in the information system used to send the electronic communication. 5 For the purposes of subclause (4)(b) and (c) , in proving the sending of an electronic communication, it is sufficient to prove that the electronic communication was properly addressed and sent. 6 In this clause, electronic address , in relation to a person, means— a an electronic address that the person has given to the RUC collector; or b if no electronic address is given, the person’s last known electronic address. 6 In this clause,— electronic address , in relation to a person, means— a an electronic address that the person has given to the RUC collector; or b if no electronic address is given, the person’s last known electronic address information system means a system for producing, sending, receiving, storing, displaying, or otherwise processing electronic communications. In Schedule 2, replace clause 2(3)(b) with: b by sending the notice to a designated electronic address; or In Schedule 2, replace clause 2(4) with: 4 For the purposes of subclause (3), a notice given— a by post is, unless the contrary is shown, treated as having been given at the time the notice would have been delivered in the ordinary course of the post: b to an electronic address under subclause (3)(b) is, unless the contrary is shown, treated as having been delivered at the time the electronic communication containing the notice first enters an information system that is outside the control of the person giving the notice and, in proving the sending, it is sufficient to prove that the electronic communication was properly addressed and sent. 116 Principal Act Sections 117 to 121 amend the Auckland Airport Act 1987. 117 Section 2 amended (Interpretation) In section 2, definition of constituent authority , replace the Schedule with Schedule 2 . In section 2, definition of contributing percentage , replace the Schedule with Schedule 2 . In section 2, definition of shareholding percentage , replace the Schedule with Schedule 2 . 118 New section 2A inserted (Transitional, savings, and related provisions) After section 2, insert: 2A Transitional, savings, and related provisions The transitional, savings, and related provisions set out in Schedule 1 have effect according to their terms. 119 Section 4 amended (Incorporation of company to own and operate Auckland International Airport) In section 4(7), replace 1955, section 3A of the Airport Authorities Act 1966, or sections 228 to 230 of the Civil Aviation Act 2023 with 1955 or section 3A of the Airport Authorities Act 1966 . 120 New Schedule 1 inserted Insert the Schedule 1 set out in Schedule 1 of this Act as the first schedule to appear after the last section of the principal Act. 121 Schedule amended In the Schedule heading, replace Schedule with Schedule 2 . 122 Principal Act Section 123 amends the Child Protection (Child Sex Offender Government Agency Registration) Act 2016. 123 Section 28 amended (Additional matters to be provided) Replace section 28(1)(a) and (b) with: a present for inspection— i the registrable offender’s physical driver licence (if any); or ii the registrable offender’s electronic driver licence in a manner that accords with the Land Transport Act 1998 and any regulations or rules made under that Act; or iii any other document or form of identification reasonably required by the constable or authorised person receiving the report to verify or support details in the report; and b if not the registrable offender, present for inspection— i the person’s physical driver licence (if any); or ii the person’s electronic driver licence in a manner that accords with the Land Transport Act 1998 and any regulations or rules made under that Act; or iii any other document or form of identification reasonably required by the constable or authorised person receiving the report. 124 Principal Act Sections 125 and 126 amend the Civil Aviation Act 2023. 125 Section 252 amended (Sale of alcohol at international airports) In section 252(3)(a), replace subsection (1)(a) or (b) (as the case requires) with subsection (1) . 126 Section 418 amended (Governor-General may impose levies) After section 418(5), insert: 5A Regulations made under this section must not impose a levy in respect of the costs that are otherwise recovered or otherwise to be recovered under the Airports (Cost Recovery for Processing of International Travellers) Act 2014. 127 Principal Act Section 128 amends the Prostitution Reform Act 2003. 128 Section 35 amended (Application for, and grant of, certificates) In section 35(4)(d), after manner , insert , or verification of identity by presenting an electronic driver licence in a manner that accords with the Land Transport Act 1998 and any regulations or rules made under that Act . In section 35(5)(a), replace photocopy and photographs with photographs and provides the required photocopy or presents an electronic driver licence . 128A Principal Act Section 128B amends the Search and Surveillance Act 2012. 128B Schedule 2 amended In Schedule 2, after the item relating to section 120 of the Radiocommunications Act 1989, insert: The following table is small in size and has 4 columns. This table is an amendment to the table in Schedule 2 of the Search and Surveillance Act 2012 and should be read with that table to provide understanding of the context. Railways Act 2005 72E Inspector may obtain and execute search warrant to enter home or marae to exercise powers in section 72D Subpart 3 72G Inspector who has entered a vehicle, building, or place under section 72D or 72E may take or remove sample of any material, substance, or thing for analysis, or seize and retain any material, substance, or thing for specified purposes Sections 154, 155, and 159 72H Specified person may obtain and execute search warrant in relation to vehicle, building, or place to search for evidence of contravention of the Railways Act 2005 that is suspected to have caused an accident or incident All (except that sections 118 and 119 apply to constables only) 129 Principal Act Section 130 amends the Transport Accident Investigation Commission Act 1990. 130 Section 13 amended (Accidents to be investigated) In the heading to section 13, after Accidents , insert and incidents . In section 13(6)(b), after accident , insert or incident in each place. 131 Principal Act Sections 132 to 134 amend the Wellington Airport Act 1990. 132 New section 2A inserted (Transitional, savings, and related provisions) After section 2, insert: 2A Transitional, savings, and related provisions The transitional, savings, and related provisions set out in Schedule 1 have effect according to their terms. 133 Section 4 amended (Incorporation of company to own and operate Wellington International Airport) In section 4(8), replace , section 3A of the Airport Authorities Act 1966, or sections 228 to 230 of the Civil Aviation Act 2023 with or section 3A of the Airport Authorities Act 1966 . 134 New Schedule 1 inserted Insert the Schedule 1 set out in Schedule 2 of this Act as the first schedule to appear after the last section of the principal Act. 135 Principal rule Sections 136 to 138 amend the Land Transport (Driver Licensing) Rule 1999. 136 Clause 10 amended (Content of application) After clause 10(b), insert: ba the applicant’s electronic address (if the applicant has an electronic address); and bb the applicant’s mobile phone number (if the applicant has a mobile phone number); and 137 New clause 14A inserted (Change of address) After clause 14, insert: 14A Change of address If the residential, postal, or electronic address of a person who holds a licence under Part 4 changes, that person must notify the Agency of the new address as soon as practicable. 138 Clause 19C amended (Form of application) After clause 19C(2)(a), insert: aa the applicant’s electronic address (if the applicant has an electronic address): ab the applicant’s mobile phone number (if the applicant has a mobile phone number): 139 Principal regulations Sections 140 to 148 amend the Land Transport (Infringement and Reminder Notices) Regulations 2012. 140 Schedule 1 amended In Schedule 1, replace Address for correspondence and payment with Address or method for correspondence and payment . In Schedule 1, under the heading To user of vehicle , after Electronic address , insert (if applicable) . In Schedule 1, under the heading Next steps , replace address for replies with electronic or physical address for replies . 141 Schedule 1A amended In Schedule 1A, replace Address for correspondence and payment with Address or method for correspondence and payment . In Schedule 1A, under the heading To: , after Electronic address , insert (if applicable) . In Schedule 1A, under the heading Next steps , replace address for replies with electronic or physical address for replies . 142 Schedule 2 amended In Schedule 2, replace Address for correspondence and payment with Address or method for correspondence and payment . In Schedule 2, under the heading To , after Electronic address , insert (if applicable) . In Schedule 2, under the heading Next steps , replace address for replies with electronic or physical address for replies . 143 Schedule 3 amended In Schedule 3, replace Address for correspondence and payment with Address or method for correspondence and payment . In Schedule 3, under the heading To heavy motor vehicle user , after Electronic address , insert (if applicable) . In Schedule 3, under the heading Next steps , replace address for replies with electronic or physical address for replies . 144 Schedule 4 amended In Schedule 4, replace Address for correspondence and payment with Address or method for correspondence and payment . In Schedule 4, under the heading Next steps , replace address for replies with electronic or physical address for replies . 145 Schedule 5 amended In Schedule 5, replace Address for correspondence and payment with Address or method for correspondence and payment . In Schedule 5, under the heading To defendant , after Electronic address , insert (if applicable) . In Schedule 5, under the heading Service details , delete (if permitted) in each place. In Schedule 5, under the heading Defences relating to moving vehicle offences and special vehicle lane offences , paragraph 8(c)(i), replace and telephone number with mobile phone number, and any other phone number . In Schedule 5, under the heading Defences relating to stationary vehicle offences , paragraph 12(c)(i), replace and telephone number with mobile phone number, and any other phone number . In Schedule 5, under the heading Next steps , replace address for replies with electronic or physical address for replies . 146 Schedule 6 amended In Schedule 6, replace Address for correspondence and payment with Address or method for correspondence and payment . In Schedule 6, under the heading To driver of vehicle/registered person of the vehicle* , after Electronic address , insert (if applicable) . In Schedule 6, under the heading Procedures for payment of infringement fee , replace Earliest date notice delivered personally or posted with Earliest date notice delivered personally, by post, or by electronic means . In Schedule 6, under the heading Next steps , replace address for replies with electronic or physical address for replies . 147 Schedule 7 amended In Schedule 7, replace Address for correspondence and payment with Address or method for correspondence and payment . In Schedule 7, under the heading To defendant , after Electronic address , insert (if applicable) . In Schedule 7, under the heading Service details , delete (if permitted) in each place. In Schedule 7, under the heading Next steps , replace address for replies with electronic or physical address for replies . 148 Schedule 8 amended In Schedule 8, replace Address for correspondence and payment with Address or method for correspondence and payment . In Schedule 8, under the heading To user of vehicle , after Electronic address , insert (if applicable) . In Schedule 8, under the heading Defences relating to special vehicle lane offences , paragraph 8(c)(i), replace and telephone number with mobile phone number, and any other phone number . In Schedule 8, under the heading Next steps , replace address for replies with electronic or physical address for replies . 149 Principal regulations Sections 150 to 163 amend the Land Transport (Motor Vehicle Registration and Licensing) Regulations 2011. 150 Regulation 3 amended (Interpretation) In regulation 3, insert in their appropriate alphabetical order: electronic licence , in relation to a motor vehicle, means a licence in electronic format licence , in relation to a motor vehicle, means a licence that is issued for the motor vehicle under Part 17 of the Act and includes— a an electronic licence; and b a physical licence physical licence , in relation to a motor vehicle, means a licence in physical format 151 Regulation 4 amended (Application for registration of motor vehicle) After regulation 4(1)(d), insert: da provide the electronic address of that person (if they have an electronic address); and 152 Regulation 11 amended (Application for licence) After regulation 11(1)(d), insert: da provide the electronic address of the registered person (if they have an electronic address); and 153 Regulation 15 amended (Form of licence) In the heading to regulation 15, after of , insert physical . In regulation 15, replace The licence with A physical licence . 154 Regulation 16 amended (Display of licences) In the heading to regulation 16, after of , insert physical . In regulation 16(1), replace The licence with A physical licence . 155 Regulation 17 amended (Change of use of motor vehicle) Replace regulation 17(2)(a) with: a surrender or proof of destruction of an existing physical licence (if any); and 156 Regulation 18 amended (Change of address) In regulation 18, insert as subclause (2): 2 An address under subclause (1) includes an electronic address. 157 Regulation 24 amended (Application for trade plates) After regulation 24(1)(d), insert: da provide the electronic address of that person (if they have an electronic address); and 158 Regulation 28 amended (Application for supplementary plates) After regulation 28(1)(d), insert: da provide the electronic address of the registered person (if they have an electronic address); and 159 Regulation 46 amended (Notice by person who sells motor vehicle) Replace regulation 46(1)(b) with: b the full name of the person selling the motor vehicle and— i the electronic address of that person (if they have an electronic address); and ii the mobile phone number of that person (if they have a mobile phone number); and iii at the Registrar’s discretion,— A that person’s full residential or business address within New Zealand (as provided by that person); and B if it differs from the address provided under subsubparagraph (A) , the full postal address of that person (as provided by that person); and Replace regulation 46(1)(c) with: c the full name of the person to be registered in respect of the motor vehicle and— i the electronic address of that person (if they have an electronic address); and ii the mobile phone number of that person (if they have a mobile phone number); and iii that person’s full residential or business address within New Zealand (as provided by that person); and iv if it differs from the address provided under subparagraph (iii) , the full postal address of that person (as provided by that person); and 160 Regulation 48 amended (Notice by person who acquires motor vehicle) After section 48(1)(c), insert: ca the electronic address of that person (if they have an electronic address); and 161 Regulation 49 amended (Recording change of particulars of registered person) Replace regulation 49(1)(a) with: a record on the register of motor vehicles— i the full name of the person who is to be registered in respect of the motor vehicle; and ii that person’s full address; and iii that person’s electronic address (if they have an electronic address); and 162 Regulation 60 amended (Replacement certificates and licences, and duplicate and replacement plates) After regulation 60(1)(c), insert: ca the electronic address of the registered person (if they have an electronic address); and 163 Schedule 1 amended In the Schedule 1 heading, after of , insert physical . 164 Principal regulations Sections 165 to 169 amend the Land Transport (Offences and Penalties) Regulations 1999. 165 Regulation 4 amended (Infringement offences) Replace regulation 4(2) with: 2 The infringement fee for an offence referred to in subclause (1) is,— a in the case of an individual,— i the infringement fee specified in relation to that offence in the fifth column of Schedule 1; or ii if Schedule 1 directs,— A the amount determined by the relevant scale set out in Schedule 1B; or B if a road controlling authority has made a bylaw in accordance with section 22AB(1)(o)(viii) of the Act prescribing an infringement fee for a lesser amount, the lesser amount: b in the case of a body corporate,— i the infringement fee specified in relation to that offence in the sixth column of Schedule 1; or ii if Schedule 1 directs,— A the amount determined by the relevant scale set out in Schedule 1B; or B if a road controlling authority has made a bylaw in accordance with section 22AB(1)(o)(viii) of the Act prescribing an infringement fee for a lesser amount, the lesser amount. 166 Schedule 1 amended In Schedule 1, first item relating to section 34(1)(b) of the Land Transport Act 1998, second column, after displaying , insert or having electronically available . In Schedule 1, second item relating to section 34(1)(b) of the Land Transport Act 1998, second column, after displaying , insert or having electronically available . In Schedule 1, after the item relating to section 60A(1)(b) of the Land Transport Act 1998, insert: The following table is small in size and has 6 columns. This table amends Schedule 1 of the Land Transport (Offences and Penalties) Regulations 1999 and should be read with that table to provide understanding of the context. 79EA(1) or (2) Having control, or permitting a person to have control, of a licensed transport service without the approval of the Director of Land Transport — — 500 1,000 166A Schedule 1B amended In Schedule 1B, Part 1, replace item 1 with: The following table is small in size and has 2 columns. This table amends Schedule 1B of the Land Transport (Offences and Penalties) Regulations 1999 and should be read with that table to provide understanding of the context. 1 Any breach of rule 6.4(1) of the Land Transport (Road User) Rule 2004 involving parking on a road in breach of a local authority bylaw, in excess of a period fixed by a meter or otherwise, where the excess time is— not more than 30 minutes 20 or such lesser amount as is fixed by the local authority more than 30 minutes but not more than 1 hour 25 or such lesser amount as is fixed by the local authority more than 1 hour but not more than 2 hours 36 or such lesser amount as is fixed by the local authority more than 2 hours but not more than 4 hours 51 or such lesser amount as is fixed by the local authority more than 4 hours but not more than 6 hours 71 or such lesser amount as is fixed by the local authority more than 6 hours 97 or such lesser amount as is fixed by the local authority 167 Schedule 3 amended In Schedule 3, Part 1, paragraph 2, after surrender your , insert physical . In Schedule 3, Part 2, paragraph 8, after circumstances your , insert physical driver . 168 Schedule 6 amended In Schedule 6, Parts 1 and 2, replace Of [ full address ] with Full address . In Schedule 6, Parts 1 and 2, after the item relating to full address, insert: Electronic address (if applicable): 169 Schedule 7 amended In Schedule 7, item relating to section 34(1)(b) of the Land Transport Act 1998, second column, after displaying , insert or having electronically available . 170 Principal regulations Section 171 amends the Land Transport (Regulatory Fees) Regulations 2023. 171 Regulation 17 amended (Fees relating to transport service licence) Replace regulation 17(2)(b) with: b if a person is applying to the Director to have control of a licensed transport service under section 30LA of the Act, the holder of the transport service licence. Replace regulation 17(4)(b) with: b a person specified in an application under section 30LA of the Act to be approved to have control of a transport service. 172 Principal rule Sections 173 and 174 amend the Land Transport Rule: Operator Licensing 2017. 173 Clause 2.2 amended (Application for transport service licence) After clause 2.2(c), insert: ca the applicant’s electronic address (if the applicant has an electronic address); and Replace clause 2.2(e) with: e the full name of any person who is to have control of the service and that person’s residential address and electronic address (if they have an electronic address); and 174 Clause 2.4 amended (Transport service licence holder to notify Director of certain changes) Revoke clause 2.4(1)(b) and (2)(a). In clause 2.4(1)(c), replace business or residential with business, residential, or electronic . In clause 2.4(2)(b), replace that person or persons with the natural person or persons (not being bodies corporate) who, in fact, have control of that body corporate . After clause 2.4(2)(c), insert: ca a change in the electronic address of that person or those persons: In clause 2.4(5), delete or 2.4(2)(a) . 175 Principal rule Sections 176 to 178 amend the Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Standards Compliance 2002. 176 Clause 11.3 amended (Revocation of evidence of vehicle inspection, conditional permits, certificates of loading, and records of determination) In clause 11.3(1), replace a vehicle’s operator with the registered person or the operator of a vehicle . After clause 11.3(1), insert: 11.3(1A) The Director may revoke, by giving written notice to the registered persons or the operators of relevant vehicles, evidence of vehicle inspection or a conditional permit or a record of determination issued under this rule for a class of vehicles if the Director is satisfied, on reasonable grounds, that— a the revocation is necessary to address a safety issue that has been identified in relation to vehicles of that class; and b the safety issue has the potential to cause injury or death to any person or damage to property. 11.3(1B) As soon as practicable after giving notice under 11.3(1A) , the Director must notify the chief executive of the Ministry of the notice and the reasons for giving it. In clause 11.3(2), replace a vehicle’s operator with the registered person or the operator of a vehicle . 177 New clause 11.9 inserted (Director may require further inspection of registered vehicle) After clause 11.8, insert: 11.9 Director may require further inspection of registered vehicle 1 The Director may, if satisfied that it is necessary to address a safety issue that has been identified, require a person referred to in 11.9(2) to present their vehicle for— a warrant of fitness inspection and certification; or b certificate of fitness inspection and certification. 2 The persons are— a the registered person for a vehicle: b all registered persons for a class of vehicles: c the operator of a vehicle: d all operators of a class of vehicles. 3 The Director must notify a person of the requirement under 11.9(1) , including the time frame within which the requirement must be complied with. 4 If a requirement applies to a class of vehicles, the Director must also notify the requirement— a in the Gazette ; and b on an internet site maintained by the Agency. 5 The registered person or operator must comply with a requirement under 11.9(1) even if the vehicle has a current warrant of fitness or certificate of fitness. 6 If a registered person or operator does not comply with a requirement under 11.9(1) , the Director may revoke the current warrant of fitness or certificate of fitness. 7 In this section, class , in relation to a vehicle, means a class or type of vehicle including a group of vehicles sharing a particular characteristic or having been subject to shared or materially similar circumstances. 178 Part 2 amended In Part 2, insert in its appropriate alphabetical order: registered person has the same meaning as in section 233(1) of the Land Transport Act 1998 179 Principal regulations Section 180 amends the Local Government (Infringement Fees for Offences: Southland Regional Council Navigation Safety Bylaws 2009) Regulations 2009. 180 Schedule 2 amended In Schedule 2, under the heading To , after the item relating to full address, insert: Email address (if known): In Schedule 2, under the heading Time for payment of infringement fee(s) , replace delivered personally, or served by post with served . In Schedule 2, under the heading Method of payment , replace notice, or a copy of this notice, with notice or a copy of this notice, or cite the infringement notice number at the top of this notice, . 181 Principal regulations Sections 182 and 183 amend the Marine Protection (Offences) Regulations 1998. 182 Schedule 2 amended In Schedule 2, after the item relating to full address, insert: Email address (if known): In Schedule 2, under the heading Payment of infringement fee(s) , replace delivered personally, or served by post with served . In Schedule 2, under the heading Do not detach , replace both copies of this notice with both copies of this notice, or cite the infringement notice number at the top of this notice, . 183 Schedule 3 amended In Schedule 3, item relating to person to whom infringement notice issued, after the item relating to telephone number, insert: Email address (if known): In Schedule 3, under the heading payment of infringement fee ,— a replace delivered personally or posted with served in each place; and b replace return this notice with return this notice, or cite the reminder notice number at the top of this notice, . 184 Principal regulations Sections 185 and 186 amend the Maritime (Offences) Regulations 1998. 185 Schedule 2 amended In Schedule 2, after the Schedule 2 heading, insert: Notice No: In Schedule 2, after the item relating to full address, insert: Email address (if known): In Schedule 2, under the heading Payment of infringement fee(s) , replace delivered personally, or served by post with served . In Schedule 2, under the heading Do not detach , replace both copies of this notice with both copies of this notice, or cite the infringement notice number at the top of this notice, . 186 Schedule 3 amended In Schedule 3, item relating to person to whom infringement notice issued, after the item relating to telephone number, insert: Email address (if known): In Schedule 3, under the heading Payment of infringement fee ,— a replace delivered personally or posted with served in each place; and b replace return this notice with return this notice, or cite the reminder notice number at the top of this notice, . 187 Principal order Sections 188 to 190 amend the Maritime Transport Act (Conventions) Order 1994. 188 New clause 1A inserted (Transitional, savings, and related provisions) After clause 1, insert: 1A Transitional, savings, and related provisions The transitional, savings, and related provisions set out in Schedule 1 have effect according to their terms. 189 Clause 2 amended (Specified international conventions and specified amendments declared to be conventions for purposes of Parts 1 to 15 of Maritime Transport Act 1994) In the heading to clause 2, delete and specified amendments . In clause 2(1), replace the Schedule with Schedule 2 . Revoke clause 2(2). 190 Schedule replaced Replace the Schedule with the Schedules 1 and 2 set out in Schedule 3 of this Act. 191 Principal regulations Section 192 amends the Maritime Transport (Infringement Fees for Offences—Auckland Council Navigation Bylaw 2021) Regulations 2021. 192 Schedule 2 amended In Schedule 2, under the heading Details of person infringement notice served on , after the item relating to telephone number, insert: *Email address: In Schedule 2, under the heading Payment of infringement fee(s) ,— a replace delivered personally, or served by post with served ; and b replace notice, or a copy of this notice, with notice or a copy of this notice, or cite the infringement notice number at the top of this notice, . 193 Principal regulations Section 194 amends the Maritime Transport (Infringement Fees for Offences—Bay of Plenty Regional Navigation Safety Bylaw 2017) Regulations 2017. 194 Schedule 2 amended In Schedule 2, under the heading Person served , after the item relating to telephone number(s), insert: Email address (if known): In Schedule 2, under the heading Time for payment of infringement fee(s) , replace delivered personally, or served by post with served . 197 Principal regulations Section 198 amends the Maritime Transport (Infringement Fees for Offences—Hawke’s Bay Regional Council Navigation and Safety Bylaw 2018) Regulations 2019. 198 Schedule 2 amended In Schedule 2, under the heading Time for payment of infringement fee(s) , replace delivered personally, or served by post with served . 199 Principal regulations Section 200 amends the Maritime Transport (Infringement Fees for Offences—Kai Iwi Lakes Navigation Safety Bylaw 2017) Regulations 2019. 200 Schedule 2 amended In Schedule 2, under the heading Person served , after the item relating to telephone number(s), insert: Email address (if known): In Schedule 2, under the heading Time for payment of infringement fee(s) , replace delivered personally, or served by post with served . 201 Principal regulations Section 202 amends Maritime Transport (Infringement Fees for Offences—Lake Taupō Navigation Safety Bylaw 2017) Regulations 2017. 202 Schedule 2 amended In Schedule 2, under the heading Time for payment of infringement fee(s) , replace delivered personally, or served by post with served . 203 Principal regulations Section 204 amends the Maritime Transport (Infringement Fees for Offences—Manawatū River and Tributaries Navigation Safety Bylaw 2022) Regulations 2023. 204 Schedule 2 amended In Schedule 2, under the heading Details of person infringement notice issued to , after the item relating to telephone number, insert: *Email address: In Schedule 2, under the heading Payment of infringement fee ,— a replace delivered personally, or served by post with served ; and b replace notice, or a copy of this notice, with notice or a copy of this notice, or cite the infringement notice number at the top of this notice, . 205 Principal regulations Section 206 amends the Maritime Transport (Infringement Fees for Offences—Nelson City Council Navigation Safety Bylaw 2012) Regulations 2015. 206 Schedule 2 amended In Schedule 2, under the heading Person served , after the item relating to address, insert: Email address (if known): In Schedule 2, under the heading Time for payment of infringement fee(s) , replace delivered personally, or served by post with served . In Schedule 2, under the heading Method of payment , replace notice, or a copy of this notice, with notice or a copy of this notice, or cite the infringement notice number at the top of this notice, . 207 Principal regulations Section 208 amends the Maritime Transport (Infringement Fees for Offences—Northland Regional Navigation Safety Bylaw 2017) Regulations 2018. 208 Schedule 2 amended In Schedule 2, under the heading Person served , after the item relating to telephone number(s), insert: Email address (if known): In Schedule 2, under the heading Time for payment of infringement fee(s) , replace delivered personally, or served by post with served . 209 Principal regulations Section 210 amends the Maritime Transport (Infringement Fees for Offences—Otago Regional Council Navigation Safety Bylaw 2020) Regulations 2023. 210 Schedule 2 amended In Schedule 2, under the heading Details of person infringement notice issued to , after the item relating to telephone number, insert: *Email address: In Schedule 2, under the heading Payment of infringement fee , replace notice, or a copy of this notice, with notice or a copy of this notice, or cite the infringement notice number at the top of this notice, . 211 Principal regulations Section 212 amends the Maritime Transport (Infringement Fees for Offences—Queenstown Lakes District Council Navigation Safety Bylaw 2018) Regulations 2019. 212 Schedule 2 amended In Schedule 2, under the heading Time for payment of infringement fee(s) , replace delivered personally, or served by post with served . 213 Principal regulations Section 214 amends the Maritime Transport (Infringement Fees for Offences—Queenstown Lakes District Council Shotover River Bylaw 2021) Regulations 2021. 214 Schedule 2 amended In Schedule 2, under the heading Details of person infringement notice issued to , after the item relating to telephone number, insert: Email address (if known): In Schedule 2, under the heading Time for payment of infringement fee(s) , replace delivered personally, or served by post with served . 215 Principal regulations Section 216 amends the Maritime Transport (Infringement Fees for Offences Relating to Major Maritime Events) Regulations 1999. 216 Schedule amended In the Schedule, under the heading Enforcement authority , after the item relating to full address, insert: Email address (if known): In the Schedule, under the heading Payment of infringement fee(s) , replace delivered personally, or served by post with served . In the Schedule, replace both copies of this notice with both copies of this notice, or cite the infringement notice number at the top of this notice, . 217 Principal regulations Section 218 amends the Maritime Transport (Infringement Fees for Offences—Tasman District Council Consolidated Bylaw, Chapter 5: Navigation Safety Bylaw 2015) Regulations 2016. 218 Schedule 2 amended In Schedule 2, under the heading Person served , after the item relating to telephone number, insert: Email address (if known): In Schedule 2, under the heading Time for payment of infringement fee(s) , replace delivered personally, or served by post with served . 219 Principal regulations Section 220 amends the Maritime Transport (Infringement Fees for Offences—Waikato Regional Council Navigation Safety Bylaw 2013) Regulations 2015. 220 Schedule 2 amended In Schedule 2, under the heading Person served , after the item relating to full address, insert: Email address (if known): In Schedule 2, under the heading Time for payment of infringement fee(s) , replace delivered personally, or served by post with served . In Schedule 2, under the heading Method of payment , replace notice, or a copy of this notice, with notice or a copy of this notice, or cite the infringement notice number at the top of this notice, . 221 Principal order Sections 222 to 224 amend the Maritime Transport (Marine Protection Conventions) Order 1999. 222 New clause 2A inserted (Transitional, savings, and related provisions) After clause 2, insert: 2A Transitional, savings, and related provisions The transitional, savings, and related provisions set out in Schedule 1 have effect according to their terms. 223 Clause 3 amended (Specified international conventions and specified amendments declared to be marine protection conventions) In the heading to clause 3, delete and specified amendments . In clause 3(1), replace the Schedule with Schedule 2 . Revoke clause 3(2). 224 Schedule replaced Replace the Schedule with the Schedules 1 and 2 set out in Schedule 4 of this Act. 225 Principal regulations Section 226 amends the Prostitution (Operator Certificate) Regulations 2003. 226 Regulation 6 amended (Photocopy of official identification) In the heading to regulation 6, replace Photocopy with Presentation . Replace regulation 6(1) with: 1 An application in form 1 must be— a accompanied by a photocopy of a form of official identification that contains a photograph of the applicant, such as a passport or driver licence; or b accompanied by the presentation of an electronic driver licence under the Land Transport Act 1998 and any regulations or rules made under that Act. In regulation 6(2), replace The photocopy with A photocopy provided under subclause (1)(a) . 227 Revocations of secondary legislation The following regulations are revoked: a Local Government (Infringement Fees for Offences—Environment Canterbury Navigation Safety Bylaws 2010) Regulations 2011 (SR 2011/328): b Local Government (Infringement Fees for Offences—Marlborough District Council Navigation Bylaw 2009) Regulations 2011 (SR 2011/330): c Local Government (Infringement Fees for Offences—Navigation Bylaws for Port Taranaki and its Approaches 2009) Regulations 2012 (SR 2012/274): d Local Government (Infringement Fees for Offences: Wellington Regional Navigation and Safety Bylaws) Regulations 2006 (SR 2006/69). 1AA New Part 4 of Schedule 1AA of Maritime Transport Act 1994 inserted 4 Provisions relating to Regulatory Systems (Transport) Amendment Act 2025 12 Interpretation In this Part, commencement date means the date on which the Regulatory Systems (Transport) Amendment Act 2025 comes into force. 13 Savings provision relating to Local Government (Infringement Fees for Offences: Southland Regional Council Navigation Safety Bylaws 2009) Regulations 2009 The Local Government (Infringement Fees for Offences: Southland Regional Council Navigation Safety Bylaws 2009) Regulations 2009 continue in force on and from the commencement date and are treated as if they were made under section 33O of this Act. 14 Savings provision relating to Lake Taupō Crown Facilities, Permits, and Fees) Regulations 2004 The Lake Taupō (Crown Facilities, Permits, and Fees) Regulations 2004 continue in force on and from the commencement date and are treated as if they were made under section 33W(5) of this Act. 1 New Schedule 1 of Auckland Airport Act 1987 inserted 1 s 2A Transitional, savings, and related provisions 1 Provisions relating to Regulatory Systems (Transport) Amendment Act 2025 1 Commencement of amendment to section 4(7) by amendment Act 1 The amendment to section 4(7) of this Act made by section 119 of the amendment Act is treated as having come into force on 5 April 2025. 2 In this clause, amendment Act means the Regulatory Systems (Transport) Amendment Act 2025 . 1 Transitional, savings, and related provisions 2 New Schedule 1 of Wellington Airport Act 1990 inserted 1 s 2A Transitional, savings, and related provisions 1 Provisions relating to Regulatory Systems (Transport) Amendment Act 2025 1 Commencement of amendment to section 4(8) by amendment Act 1 The amendment to section 4(8) of this Act made by section 133 of the amendment Act is treated as having come into force on 5 April 2025. 2 In this clause, amendment Act means the Regulatory Systems (Transport) Amendment Act 2025 . 1 Transitional, savings, and related provisions 3 Schedule of Maritime Transport Act (Conventions) Order 1994 replaced 1 cl 1A Transitional, savings, and related provisions 1 Provisions relating to Regulatory Systems (Transport) Amendment Act 2025 1 Existing conventions include amendments to those conventions 1 A convention, protocol, or agreement specified in Schedule 2 as inserted by the amendment Act includes any amendment to, or revision of, that convention, protocol, or agreement— a if New Zealand is a party to the amendment or revision; and b whether New Zealand became a party to the amendment or revision before, on, or after the date that the amendment Act came into force. 2 In this clause, amendment Act means the Regulatory Systems (Transport) Amendment Act 2025 . 2 cl 2 Conventions declared for purposes of Parts 1 to 15 of Maritime Transport Act 1994 Convention on the International Maritime Organization, 1948 Convention on Facilitation of International Maritime Traffic, 1965 International Convention on Load Lines, 1966 Protocol of 1988 relating to the International Convention on Load Lines, 1966 International Convention on Tonnage Measurement of Ships, 1969 International Convention for Safe Containers, 1972 Convention on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972 International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974 Protocol of 1978 relating to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974 Protocol of 1988 relating to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974 Convention on the International Mobile Satellite Organization, 1976 International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978 International Convention on Maritime Search and Rescue, 1979 International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Fishing Vessel Personnel, 1995 Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 1 Transitional, savings, and related provisions 2 Conventions declared for purposes of Parts 1 to 15 of Maritime Transport Act 1994 4 Schedule of Maritime Transport (Marine Protection Conventions) Order 1999 replaced 1 cl 2A Transitional, savings, and related provisions 1 Provisions relating to Regulatory Systems (Transport) Amendment Act 2025 1 Existing marine protection conventions include amendments to those conventions 1 A convention, protocol, or agreement specified in Schedule 2 as inserted by the amendment Act includes any amendment to, or revision of, that convention, protocol, or agreement— a if New Zealand is a party to the amendment or revision; and b whether New Zealand became a party to the amendment or revision before, on, or after the date that the amendment Act came into force. 2 In this clause, amendment Act means the Regulatory Systems (Transport) Amendment Act 2025 . 2 cl 3 Marine protection conventions International Convention Relating to Intervention on the High Seas in Cases of Oil Pollution Casualties, 1969 Convention on the Prevention of Marine Pollution by Dumping of Wastes and Other Matter, 1972, as amended Protocol relating to Intervention on the High Seas in Cases of Pollution by Substances other than Oil, 1973 International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, 1973, as modified by the Protocol of 1978 relating thereto Annex I—Regulations for the Prevention of Pollution by Oil Annex II—Regulations for the Control of Pollution by Noxious Liquid Substances in Bulk Annex III—Prevention of Pollution by Harmful Substances Carried by Sea in Packaged Form Annex V—Prevention of Pollution by Garbage from Ships Annex VI—Prevention of Air Pollution from Ships Protocol of 1997 to amend the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, 1973, as modified by the Protocol of 1978 relating thereto United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, 1982 International Convention on Oil Pollution Preparedness, Response and Co-operation, 1990 Protocol of 1992 to amend the International Convention on Civil Liability for Oil Pollution Damage, 1969 Protocol of 1992 to amend the International Convention on the Establishment of an International Fund for Compensation for Oil Pollution Damage, 1971 1996 Protocol to the Convention on the Prevention of Marine Pollution by Dumping of Wastes and Other Matter, 1972 International Convention on Civil Liability for Bunker Oil Pollution Damage, 2001 Protocol of 2003 to the International Convention on the Establishment of an International Fund for Compensation for Oil Pollution Damage, 1992 International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships’ Ballast Water and Sediments, 2004 1 Transitional, savings, and related provisions 2 Marine protection conventions

Hansard

April 23, 2026

Regulatory Systems (Transport) Amendment Bill — Second Reading · Full day report

Second Reading Hon JAMES MEAGER (Associate Minister of Transport) (16:54): I move, That the Regulatory Systems (Transport) Amendment Bill be now read a second time. We traversed the contents of this bill in the first reading. As tradition, in the second reading, we now come to discussing the report back from the select committee. So I won’t go back over old territory. I will make a couple of key comments. First, I’d just like to thank the select committee—the transport select committee— Dan Bidois: Infrastructure. Hon JAMES MEAGER: Transport and Infrastructure Committee—don’t forget the infrastructure part—for their scrutiny of this bill and for the submitters who made the time to make a submission: 41 written submissions, seven submitters in total. I think members of the Justice Committee are probably rolling their eyes at the workload there, but all important stuff. I really appreciate the work that the select committee did and the time that people have put into contributing to this bill. It is a regulatory systems bill, so it covers a number of areas. With the agreement of parties across the House, it amends a number of Acts so we can make some modernisation changes to the syst…
Read full Hansard debate
Second Reading Hon JAMES MEAGER (Associate Minister of Transport) (16:54): I move, That the Regulatory Systems (Transport) Amendment Bill be now read a second time. We traversed the contents of this bill in the first reading. As tradition, in the second reading, we now come to discussing the report back from the select committee. So I won’t go back over old territory. I will make a couple of key comments. First, I’d just like to thank the select committee—the transport select committee— Dan Bidois: Infrastructure. Hon JAMES MEAGER: Transport and Infrastructure Committee—don’t forget the infrastructure part—for their scrutiny of this bill and for the submitters who made the time to make a submission: 41 written submissions, seven submitters in total. I think members of the Justice Committee are probably rolling their eyes at the workload there, but all important stuff. I really appreciate the work that the select committee did and the time that people have put into contributing to this bill. It is a regulatory systems bill, so it covers a number of areas. With the agreement of parties across the House, it amends a number of Acts so we can make some modernisation changes to the system. I wanted to touch on a couple of points raised by submitters that have been reflected back in the select committee report. The first one is, I think, probably one of the key parts of the bill and maybe the more popular part of the bill, which is that this is the bill that enables the infrastructure to provide for digital driver’s licences in New Zealand. Now, ironically, we can already recognise digital driver’s licences from other jurisdictions, just not our own. What this bill does is it implements that framework so that later on the Government can make decisions about what that system eventually looks like. Just to be clear, for those who made submissions, this bill does not set up digital drivers’ licences; it just provides the framework for them to be implemented at a later date by the Government. I want to acknowledge the submitters who raised concerns about whether or not digital drivers’ licences would become compulsory. That is not the Government’s intention. It is our view that those licences, the physical licences, will remain in play and this is a voluntary step that people can take up if they wish to do so. For instance, if you’re like me and you end up keeping your driver’s licence in the truck sometimes and you get to the airport and you fly somewhere and you’ve realised that you’ve left it in your truck and then you had to go and get a rental car, you still can’t get a rental vehicle because you need your physical licence to do so. For forgetful people like me, that may be helpful in the future when you can just pull out your phone, provide your verified driver’s licence, and on the roads you go. I would also like to provide some reassurances to those submitters who raised the idea of this becoming a national ID. That is also not the intention. Of course, there are a number of documents and identification numbers that people hold in this country. Your driver’s licence is one, your passport is another, your national health number, your national education number—there are many, many numbers around that the Government can use to link you with Government services. All this does is provide the framework for allowing the digitisation of those drivers’ licences. I wanted to address another key concern from submitters. It was around accessibility and the fact that for those who don’t have a driver’s licence for one reason or another, having a digital ID to prove their age or prove their identity can be quite difficult. I just want to reassure them that as part of the digital identity trust framework that the Government has also worked on, there are going to be other options that come forward in the future for a trusted, verifiable digital ID that people can use to verify their age or their identity which doesn’t involve having a driver’s licence. That should be good for those with accessibility issues or people who for one reason or another cannot have a driver’s licence or a passport for that reason. With that, I’d just like to once again thank all those who made a contribution to this bill. The select committee reports a number of other relatively minor but straightforward changes to align some of the search powers, some of the infringement powers, some of the infringement powers in here with equivalent pieces of legislation around civil aviation and health and safety. I thank them for picking up on those issues. It’s one of the best things about our select committee, that you can put it through a process where some things that are overlooked the first time can get picked up, remedied, and taken through the House. With that, I commend the bill to the House. DEPUTY SPEAKER: The question is that the motion be agreed to. Dr TRACEY McLELLAN (Labour) (16:58): Thank you, Madam Speaker. Thank you for the opportunity to also say a few words at the second reading of the Regulatory Systems (Transport) Amendment Bill. Labour’s going to support this bill at the second reading stage because it’s pretty practical. It’s a system-wide tidy-up, and that’s probably all it could be described as. I note the Minister’s comments and note that it was a relatively short speech because it’s a relatively simple, straightforward bill that tidies things up and improves how transport regulation works day to day. It’s not without some controversy, and there were obviously some people that were concerned, as happens when some things become digitised. It can raise the hackles of a few people that want to be very well assured that it doesn’t overreach and doesn’t impact them in a negative way, and we can work our way through those points as we go on. So it’s not transformational. It certainly doesn’t fix issues without addressing—it fixes issues but it certainly doesn’t fix those bigger challenges in our transport system. What the bill does do is it is understood, essentially, as a piece of modernisation work, and a clean-up across land, maritime, and aviation—and, actually, even rail. So it brings the system into the digital age, which is a good thing, and, as the Minister has just noted, a couple of really practical advantages of having that digital driver’s licence—for example, when trying to rent a car and not having your physical licence on you. It’s also important to note, I think, as many of the submitters were potentially a little bit concerned about that it’s not compulsory, and that seemed to give assurance to some people that were concerned about that being the direction. It enables the digital driver’s licence and electronic display of documents like warrant of fitness and certificates of loading. It allows infringement notices to also be issued electronically, and it updates basic systems so that regulators can communicate using email and mobile contact details. That’s not without risk; we’ve certainly seen that in other bills that have come through this House. I remember, in particular, hearing quite a lot of evidence and information when I was on the Justice Committee about electronic infringement notices. When you dig beneath the surface, it’s certainly not as easy as it sounds at the onset of that conversation. This isn’t without complication, but, as I said, it’s a very simple updating bill. This makes compliance simpler and the system, hopefully, more responsive, which is the aim. Secondly, it strengthens safety and enforcement. The New Zealand Transport Agency—I suppose, is one example—can close an unsafe highway more quickly, which has got to be a good thing. The Director of Land Transport can suspend unsafe operators much more immediately, should that information come to light if the system is a little bit more modern, and parts of the system can talk to each other a little bit more readily. Rail and maritime investigation powers in this bill are expanded so that risk can be identified earlier, as well. Those were things that within the transport sector are things that have been advocated for. This is about a system that can act a bit more quickly, particularly when safety is at risk. The third point I wanted to make is that it updates the penalties and improves some consistency. That’s an important part of any kind of robust system. The land transport penalties are, in fact, increased, and the maritime fines are aligned much more readily with international standards, which is, actually, also really important. It ensures that rules—because it is important; as long as you have rules and regulations, they do have to remain credible and they do have to continue to be meaningful in a changing sort of world. We’re more than happy to support that. The fourth aspect of this bill that bears, probably, worth mentioning is that it fixes some longstanding gaps and what, I suppose, can be described as technical errors. It resolves issues around declaring new State highways, it clarifies the use of infrastructure like bus stops when they happen to be within motorway corridors, and it fixes some aviation law issues so that airports—if I’ve got this right—can properly set those charges. So there are small but necessary fixes to remove some of the friction that exists within those current systems. Finally, it aligns New Zealand with international standards, which, as I said, is actually important, particularly through stronger protections for seafarers—is a good example—under the international labour convention. That is something that we have a somewhat checkered history on, a proud history in a lot of respects but sometimes the lag between signing ourselves up to things and actually domestically putting in place those regulations in that legislation to enact it could be improved. Overall, the bill makes the system, as I said, more efficient, more modern, and safer. For those reasons, we are prepared to continue to show our support. Now, when I think about the select committee process, given this is a second reading, I picked out a few bits and pieces of the feedback from submitters. Submitters, largely, supported the bill as a necessary tidy-up. As I said, many of these measures have been long advocated from within and it’s widely accepted that the legislation is somewhat outdated. There was strong support for the digital modernisation, particularly from industry, which stands to reason; these are the people that work within the system that not only have to deal with the cumbersome inefficiencies from a lack of digitisation but they’re also the people that need to be able to have that assuredness through something that’s a little bit more modern. Regulators and safety bodies also backed stronger enforcement powers, and the maritime stakeholders, in particular, welcomed those improved seafarer protections. But there were, having said that, also some concerns raised, which is not unusual. The bill doesn’t address affordability pressures in transport, which, I think, is a shame. There are plenty of other things that this bill could have traversed to have gone in that direction. Submitters emphasised the need for accountability, alongside stronger enforcement powers, which is also something to be mindful of, and there were concerns about digital inclusion, particularly for rural and older New Zealanders, which is an issue that is relevant across a wide range of sectors but this one, in particular, is a really salient example, particularly when we’re talking about drivers’ licences of people that whilst they might not practically end up feeling disadvantaged but the perception of feeling as if something is happening at a pace or without the requisite knowledge. So we do hope that this is rolled out in the implementation stage in a way that is able to mitigate some of those concerns. The bill, as I said, doesn’t answer some of the big questions. It certainly doesn’t, in and of itself, reduce emissions; it certainly doesn’t do anything or go any way towards easing congestion; and it doesn’t do anything or recommend anything for anything in the progress with aims to improving public transport or more accessible or more affordable forms of public transport. Those are the types of things that, certainly on this side of the House, the Labour Party will always continue to raise when given the opportunity to talk about a transport bill going through this House. Whilst it’s practical and, therefore, necessary, it’s a very basic omnibus bill that cleans up some bits and pieces. It certainly can be best described, I suppose, as a bill that may well very well tidy up the system but it does nothing for rising costs of getting around. It certainly doesn’t make life any cheaper. At a time when costs are going up and when the economy has shrunk and people are feeling like they’re going backwards, this bill isn’t going to be the miraculous answer to any of that. But, then, having said that, not much of what’s going through this House at the moment is addressing those problems. Having said that, we will continue our support of this bill and we look forward to the other stages to come. CELIA WADE-BROWN (Green) (17:08): Thank you, Madam Chair. I rise to support this bill, on behalf of the Green Party. My colleague the Hon Julie Anne Genter was part of the Transport and Infrastructure Committee for the submissions, but I have looked at those and I have participated in the report and would like to thank the chair, the submitters, my colleagues, and, of course, the committee staff, who do such a good of scheduling and communicating with submitters in general. It’s remarkable that a transport bill that actually covers air, sea, and land transport—both road and rail—is agreed, I hope, by all of the parties in the House, thanks partly to our chair. But inevitably, that means it is a tidying bill, not a transformative bill. I think we just have to accept that regulatory systems bills are tidying Acts rather than the transformation we really need in transport and a number of other areas. I’ve got a few notes here from some aspects of the bill. I do think it went through a really good process—the idea that you have an initial chat through Business Committee to see if we’re likely to all agree. Through that process, there were some more contentious items removed, as I understand it. Some of the issues about removing various principles were abandoned when it was seen that we could not have agreement. I think that kind of early engagement might be rather useful on a number of other bills too. I wanted to talk—and I shan’t be using my full 10 minutes, but I do want to cover a couple of things. It is clear that electronic driver licensing will be useful. It is very important that we are not making it compulsory. I recognise that the introducer of this bill said they might forget their driver’s licence. Well, your phone might be flat; you might have forgotten your phone as well as your driver’s licence—these things are possible. The question is: how will the system be accessible if you don’t have those things either? But that’s in the implementation stage. This enables the possibility of it, and I think there will be a lot of discussion about how we actually make it work. I think one of the most important things is the organ donor status, and that’s on people’s drivers’ licences but, unfortunately, has been falling over time. I would like to see this opportunity of introducing a better system of recording to encourage people to provide that lifesaving opportunity to other people. The other area that was brought up by some of the communities representing people with disabilities was: do not assume everybody over 16 is going to have a driver’s licence. Be careful about assuming that for things unrelated to hiring a car or showing the police your licence or whatever else, obviously, you need the licence for—it shouldn’t be assumed that if you don’t have a passport, you must have a driver’s licence. It was not within the scope of this bill to address how you might have that kind of digital identity for other people, but we did, as a committee, recognise that it was an important issue and there’s a gap highlighted in the current ID options. We’re more and more having to prove who we are. The only time I ever say, “Don’t you know who I am?” is to my phone, because it doesn’t know who I am. I change my glasses, I put my hair up, I wear a different lipstick—it can’t recognise me. I do think there are some real issues about how we go forward with defining identity. I would just like to say the investigative powers there were quite interesting. We looked at railway corridors, who investigates railway accidents—and they are usually a combination of something that happened on a road and something that happened on a railway. To what extent is the site secured? All of those issues were traversed in some detail and I think will enable safer decisions to be made in the future. I’m pleased to say that—oh, and I did want to say something about the seafarers. We have a section about employers’ duties in relation to seafarers of New Zealand ships on overseas voyages. I understand that there have been a number of improvements made. People are very vulnerable. They’re in the middle of the ocean. They don’t necessarily have communication. They may not even have the same languages. We should protect their employment rights and their human rights in those situations. With that, I support the bill. SIMON COURT (ACT) (17:14): ACT supports this bill. ACT’s purpose is to make sure that red tape is cut; that regulations, where necessary—absolutely necessary—are fit for purpose and they actually encourage New Zealanders to invest, to go about their business, and to lead their best lives. Now, this Regulatory Systems (Transport) Amendment Bill does a lot of those things, but, most importantly, what it does is it secures and protects the privacy of New Zealanders when it comes to electronic driver licensing. The committee was very clear that it must be optional, never compulsory, and it must be flexible, because some of us who do lose our wallets and cards regularly do need this alternative option of having an electronic licence on our phone or somewhere else handy. ACT commends this bill to the House. ANDY FOSTER (NZ First) (17:15): I rise as the chair of the Transport and Infrastructure Committee and on behalf of New Zealand First to support this bill as well. There’s only one item that I wanted to touch on. It is the driver’s licence one. We were very, very emphatic that it does need to be an option. We’re making it something that you can do, but it’s optional and not compulsory. I also just wanted to pick up on the comments which have just been made, I think mostly by Celia Wade-Brown, around some other form of identity. We had one impassioned submission from a chap called Runze Liu—R-u-n-z-e, for Hansard—and he said, “Look, as a disabled person, it’s very, very difficult to be identified. You can’t have a driver’s licence. Passports are very expensive. We need something.” We as a party would certainly not want to see a universal ID but something to support those kinds of people, because that is necessary for participating fully in society. I commend this bill to the House. DEPUTY SPEAKER: The next call is a split call. I call Mike Davidson. MIKE DAVIDSON (Green) (17:16): Thank you, Madam Speaker. It was only just a bit earlier we had a bit of a call out to see who wanted to talk to a transport bill, and, naturally, I quickly put my hand up, being someone that loves cycling and walking and taking public transport and is very fond of safety platforms as well, and seeing what’s happened with this over this two and a half years. I had no idea what I was going to be coming into but knew it would be an opportunity to speak to transport, especially coming from Canterbury. Those of us from Canterbury will know how poorly we’re serviced by this Government when it comes to transport funding. We are 13 percent of the population, produce around 12 percent of the GDP, make up 15 percent of vehicle kilometres travelled, yet we only get 5 percent of the Waka Kotahi funding—5 percent. I think a lot of that is just going into a motorway that will bypass—what end? A billion dollars to save 3 minutes, and what will it do? They’re going to put a toll on it, most likely, and it’s going to actually increase traffic going through our local pā. It’s actually really poor when you look at what’s happening in Christchurch, so— Andy Foster: Get back to the bill. MIKE DAVIDSON: I’m getting back to the bill, but I was excited. I was excited when I got this call to come and talk about transport, considering what has happened over the last few years. I thought maybe someone saw a bit of a te reo sign and were getting upset and were doing more legislation to remove it. Maybe they’re trying to get rid of Waka Kotahi’s name completely. But no—no. It wasn’t about that. It wasn’t about fixing some of the slowest commutes around our country. In Christchurch, we have the slowest commute. No, it wasn’t going to fix that. In Ōtautahi, we have over 54 percent of our emissions coming from land transport. No, it wasn’t going to fix that. I was actually a little bit disappointed that this bill was just a very simple bill. Tim Costley: Wellington Council will get you moving. MIKE DAVIDSON: Wellington Council—we should be grateful they’re only getting $1 million on our one. What about the price of the Mount Vic? It’s going bankrupt the country for the price of a Mount Vic extra tunnel. It’s crazy, what’s happening with this Government, fixated on their roads. But, no, this bill wasn’t about that. Madam Speaker, I’m back to the bill now— DEPUTY SPEAKER: No, but the member was responding to interjections, so I will let you get away with that. MIKE DAVIDSON: Thank you. This bill was actually very simple. It wasn’t contentious. It had minor amendments. I haven’t got my glasses; I can’t even read. It’s focused on amending 12 Acts. Well, I’ve still got two minutes, so I better go through them so we all know what the Acts are—they’re amending the Government Road Powers Act 1989, the Land Transport Act 1998, the Land Transport Management Act 2003, the Maritime Transport Act 1994, the Railways Act 2005, the Road User Charges Act 2012, the Auckland Airport Act 1987, the Child Protection (Child Sex Offender Government Agency Registration) Act 2016, the Civil Aviation Act 2023, the Prostitution Reform Act 2003—have I got the right bill; I think so—the Transport Accident Investigation Commission Act 1990. They’re just simple changes that were not contentious. I was actually fortunate enough to be on the Transport and Infrastructure Committee when we did hear some of the submissions, and I was present when the young chap that Andy Foster mentioned spoke. It was a very compelling argument, at the time, that, actually, there are a lot of people that cannot have a driver’s licence as ID. Obviously, at that point of time, it was out of scope. One of the things that can concerns me, obviously, is that they come along and they talk, it’s out of scope, and nothing happens, so I was very pleased when I heard the Associate Minister of Transport saying earlier that, actually, they’d picked that up and that issue’s going to be addressed. That’s actually really good to see that. I acknowledge that, because I think it’s really important that when people come to talk to select committees and they actually come with a genuine concern that needs fixing, we don’t just let it fall off the radar; things are actually done to address that. I would like to acknowledge the work of the select committee and the chair, Andy Foster—you know, hard work to get this one through to this stage, but they did a good job and we support this bill. Kia ora. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Just before I call the next speaker—I didn’t want to interrupt the member’s speech, but I was going to comment that I’m very pleased he has a very strong voice, because he had a lot to contend with. Dr CARLOS CHEUNG (National—Mt Roskill) (17:21): First of all, I’d like to thank you—not the previous one but the one before; the Green Party member Celia Wade-Brown for highlighting the concern I raised, at the Transport and Infrastructure Committee, about the organ donation. We want to know that as we’re moving towards using the digital system, we need to make sure healthcare workers can access the organ donation information. In conclusion, this bill is about getting the basics right and creating a platform for the future innovation and efficiency. I commend this bill to the House. TANGI UTIKERE (Labour—Palmerston North) (17:22): Kia orana. Meitaki maata Madam Speaker. Look, it’s a pleasure to rise, as Labour’s transport spokesperson, to take what will be a full call this afternoon, because it’s important that the Parliament has the opportunity to hear what this member has to say today on The Regulatory Systems (Transport) Amendment Bill. It seems to be it’s the Transport and Infrastructure Committee’s day today, with legislation currently before the Parliament, and some members have touched on some of the issues that have been raised as part of the process that the committee went through. I want to acknowledge the colleagues that work collegially on that particular committee most of the time. We had a number of submissions—41—and seven people came and orally submitted, in terms of coming to speak to their submissions. I want to also acknowledge, actually, what is a multitude of officials, in addition to the standard Parliamentary Counsel Office and Office of the Clerk. The fact that this is an omnibus bill indicates the sort of broad nature of officials that were required to support and assist the committee through their deliberations—so the Ministry of Transport, New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi, and Maritime New Zealand, amongst some others as well. This is an omnibus bill, which is appropriate because it actually seeks to change a number of provisions—many of them actually are rather outdated. When the committee turns its mind to addressing some of those outdated motions, it kind of also has to think about trying to futureproof some of those options for the future, where possible. In some circumstances, that can be done, and in some circumstances, it can’t be done—the select committee’s report does touch on a few of those particular pieces. But, fundamentally, this is looking to update and amend legislation in the areas of land transport, maritime, and aviation. What was really interesting was Mr Mike Davidson actually went through the 12 Acts that this bill seeks to amend. There were a few little chuckles from across the aisle over there, when two of those Acts were actually mentioned: one of them was the Child Protection (Child Sex Offender) Government Agency Registration Act 2016, and the other was the Prostitution Reform Act 2003. One could rightly, I guess, form the view: what have those two pieces got to do with a regulatory system transport omnibus bill? Hon Barbara Edmonds: Go on, tell them. TANGI UTIKERE: I will tell you, thank you, Barbara Edmonds. What the child protection piece of legislation is about—this bill will seek to allow for a registered offender to present ID in an electronic form. So if an electronic driver’s licence is held by anyone in this country—and this will create the mechanism for that to happen; it’s not saying that will, necessarily, all come in overnight, but it will create the mechanism for that to happen. It means that in that particular law, if someone is a registered offender, that they could choose to have the electronic copy, which would be required, as opposed to the physical one. For the prostitution reform, the current legislation requires an individual specified in that Act to present a photocopy of their driver’s licence, which would prove rather difficult if you had an electronic copy— Justices of the Peace and others all deal with these sorts of issues all the time. The bill, as it currently stands, seeks to amend the provision to allow for an electronic driver’s licence. For the benefit of members opposite there, consistency is important and, hopefully, that is able to respond to any concerns that might exist there. This is a bill that does seek to address the digital opportunity for modern service. As Mr Foster has said, one of the things that the committee was really keen on ensuring was that this bill still allowed for people who choose to, to have a physical driver’s licence in paper form. Even though this might provide for a modernisation in a digital context, it does not mean that everyone will be forced to have only one form of driver’s licence and that’s a digital one. This still provides the opportunity for those that choose to, to have a paper copy if that is how things actually pan out. That was one of the concerns that I raised in first reading; where privacy considerations that the committee did hear from submitters about concerns as to if digital was going to be the only way, well, what sort of protections were going to be in place around the protection of their privacy if it was held in a centralised system. Now, some could argue, well that currently exists as an issue or not where the data is currently contained in a centralised electronic system. Anyhow, it’s just the physical copy of the driver’s licence that people have in terms of being on them and to be able to present those as well, but this also extends that to allow for the electronic provision of certificate of fitness, warrant of fitness. There will be a time perhaps where we will no longer have windscreens that have a litany of different stickers representing different things. This bill does seek to provide that in that space as well. It also seeks to strengthen the safety and enforcement opportunities that have actually remained in legislation and on the country’s books for some time. If there were some safety concerns around State highways as part of the networks, there was not an automatic right for Waka Kotahi to go and, effectively, close down periods or patches of State highway networks. This does provide them the opportunity to do that, but only in circumstances where safety is an issue. It’s not a broad-brush form of authority where they can just go in and shutdown a highway; it needs to be purely related or only related to safety considerations. I don’t think we’ve got much, sort of, hope with the lack of progress with “roads of National Party’s significance”, that they’re going to have to shut any of them down, because hardly any of them are built in terms of that space. Unfunded, no revenue, wanting to toll them, all of those sorts of things. [Interruption] Simon Court: You’ll drive on them. TANGI UTIKERE: What’s that? Oh, look, they like to chirp over there. I look forward to the contributions that are to come, to hear about what it is—they’ve got an issue with what I’m saying. Let’s get that on the Hansard so that they can tell us exactly what that is all about. Now, in terms of the penalty provisions, many of these provisions had not been updated for quite some time. In the maritime space, what’s been sought there is to try and lift the game in terms of compliance so that those who do need a bit of a deterrent, that, actually, it means something. Many of the provisions have been updated in that space, which does make a lot of sense as well. I want to touch on the maritime sector, because the committee had a lot of conversations in this space. What I think is really encouraging is that this bill, in the maritime space, will ensure that the reforms that Maritime New Zealand are undertaking as a result, and in sort of tandem with this bill and this legislation, will bring us into alignment with the Maritime Labour Convention. That is really, really important. Where we sign up as a country to conventions around the world, there are obligations on signatories. For quite some time, New Zealand perhaps maybe have been seen or perceived as lagging behind. What this bill does is it brings us up to speed, and it ensure that as an international player, we are pulling our weight. That’s an important consideration. What’s also really important is the protection of the rights that seafarers have. This bill goes into quite some detail, and so does the committee’s report—it references this—to ensure that seafarers have a standard of protection that is really, really important. We are a country that is located in the depths of the South Pacific; we rely on seafarers on more occasions than other countries around the world. Ensuring that there are minimum protections and opportunities for the director of Maritime New Zealand to go in and check that these particular standards are being enforced is the right thing to do and will ensure that we, as an international player, are continuing to pull our own weight. The changes in that regard, in rail, align the investigation powers with those that currently exist comparatively with the Civil Aviation Authority. There is some consistency that has been introduced there as well. Many of these changes, as my colleague Dr McLellan has said, are practical, but they really don’t address aspects that the Government should be turning its mind to around affordability. They have a suite of roads that they want to roll out; they have no money for them; they’re seeking to reprioritise or “re-sequence” or thereabouts, but they remain blind to the fact that they promised all of these things when they knew they could not deliver. It’s important that legislation like this does have support and does happen and is on the legislative agenda. It’s very clear that this seems to be the priority of the Government, rather than fronting up to the real, pressing concerns that they do have in many of the other transport spaces. We hope that, actually, that will correct itself come the future with a change there. We’re happy to continue to support this bill. DAN BIDOIS (National—Northcote) (17:32): There are bills in this House that are game-changing—consequential pieces of legislation that give members of Parliament a sense of purpose about why we are here—and then there are regulatory systems bills. No offence to the Minister; he’s done a great job. I commend this select committee process, and I commend this bill to the House. DEPUTY SPEAKER: This is a split call—Dan Rosewarne. DAN ROSEWARNE (Labour) (17:33): It’s a pleasure, again, to rise and take a call on the Regulatory Systems (Transport) Amendment Bill—the second reading, I might add. We support this bill; it’s sensible, it’s a practical piece of legislation, and it makes a range of technical improvements to how our transport system is regulated. It modernises those outdated provisions, it closes gaps, and it improves efficiency across road, rail, and the maritime sectors. Supporting this bill does not mean that we think it’s enough. While this legislation tidies things up around the edges, it does not confront the real pressures that are facing New Zealanders when it comes to transport: the cost, the accessibility, the long-term sustainability, and how people move around their communities. That’s where the Government is falling short. This is a Government, led by Christopher Luxon, that promised New Zealanders relief from the cost of living. Instead, families are feeling more pressure than ever and it’s harder to see a doctor or nurse and everyday costs are rising. Nowhere is that more evident than in the transport space. This bill introduces useful changes: digital drivers’ licences, electronic warrants of fitness, and more efficient ways of issuing infringement notices. These are all steps in the right direction. They reduce paperwork, they modernise the system, and they make life a little bit easier for everyday people. It also strengthens safety and enforcement, giving the New Zealand Transport Agency the ability to close unsafe highways, expanding investigation powers for rail accidents, and improving oversight in the maritime sector. These are all important changes that will help keep New Zealanders safe. The updated penalties are also long overdue. Ensuring consistency across transport modes and aligning with international standards is good governance. But none of that addresses the fundamental question facing many New Zealanders: how can I afford to get to work, to school, to the doctor, and to see my family? That brings me to an issue very close to my home and the community of Waimakariri: the Woodend Bypass. People in my area have waited for years for this Woodend Bypass. It’s a critical piece of infrastructure that will improve safety, reduce congestion, and support economic growth in North Canterbury. Anyone who has sat through traffic in Woodend just knows how badly that is needed. Now, what are we seeing from the Government? They want to toll it. That did not come up at the last election, and when National was in Opposition, there was no clear indication that communities like mine would be asked to pay extra out of their back pocket just to use that essential infrastructure. Now, after the election, Waimakariri residents are being told that they need to reach into their own pockets every time they use a road, every time they need to take their kids to footy practice, every time they need to go to the supermarket. That’s just not on. We are very frustrated—my community is very frustrated; people come to talk to me about their frustration, and they’re very much looking forward to 7 November. They feel blindsided; they feel like the goalposts have been shifted, and these costs do add up. I’ll go back to the bill. Transport should be about connecting people, not creating new barriers. We believe in investment that strengthens communities and supports economic growth. That means thinking beyond regulatory fixes. It means tackling affordability head on. With this bill improving public transport options, it’s going to be easier through this modernisation. It means investment in infrastructure in a way that’s fair, transparent, and does not leave communities feeling like they’ve been misled. This bill, while useful, doesn’t address all the issues around what we want to address. It does, however, contain provisions that are worth supporting, and we absolutely intend to do that. The move towards digital licensing and electronic documentation, that reflects the reality of how people live and work today, so it’s very, very important, and those strengthened enforcement powers are particularly important too. For that reason, I commend the bill to the House. RIMA NAKHLE (National—Takanini) (17:37): Thank you, Madam Speaker. This bill does the complete opposite of what we’re hearing on the other side. This bill aims to increase effectiveness and efficiency. I commend this bill to the House. GLEN BENNETT (Labour) (17:38): Kia ora, Madam Speaker. Over the recess, I was on the road a lot, travelling in my Tourism and Hospitality portfolio. Then, I had a few days off, and got to have a break, which was very nice— Dan Bidois: Going to try those five-star hotels. GLEN BENNETT: Ha! I’ve never been in a five-star hotel in my life. I got home and discovered— Hon James Meager: This is like a cross-party regulatory systems bill, and you guys are sitting there being political and trying to shit on us all day. GLEN BENNETT: Point of order, Madam Speaker. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Yeah, point of order. I would like the member who spoke—I did hear a word that was quite unparliamentary—to apologise, please. Hon James Meager: I withdraw and apologise. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Thank you. GLEN BENNETT: Thank you, Madam Speaker. I’m not sure what that has to do with me, but anyway. I’ve been on the road and had a wee bit of a break. I ended up back at home to find some mail in my mailbox that was a bit sodden. There were a few leaflets and pamphlets that had kind of mashed in together. In that, I have to confess, there was a notice of a parking infringement. This is where I throw someone under the bus, because it wasn’t me who parked my car at the time; it was somebody else who had been using my car, and I will not mention his name. But, anyway, the point of my story was that it’s been about seven days since I’ve been home. Tim Costley: You can’t delegate responsibility. GLEN BENNETT: I take full responsibility. It’s a story that I’d like to tell and I’m just wanting to reiterate the point and the fact that once I got home, the mush of mail—of course, there was an infringement notice for the parking infringement and it was pretty hard to read and decipher. I actually had to contact the council about what the infringement notice actually was. Anyway, the point of my story is that this piece of legislation—and that now just seems a bit of an irrelevant story; but the reality of it was that being able to have an electronic version, being able to do that, actually makes a lot of sense because, let’s be honest, mail comes less than it used to. For many of us, we are mobile and on the move, and the fact that, often—I don’t know about you, but I often forget to check my mailbox and see if there’s anything actually in it. Looking at this legislation, for things like allowing infringement notices and reminders to be served electronically is very helpful and very handy; I’m sure not only for myself but for many people. I did pay the $12 fine, just so you know. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Only $12? GLEN BENNETT: Only $12. It’s—you know, come to Taranaki and all of that. The other thing about this that we support is just around—I was looking at new section 61AA, inserted by clause 4: “Agency may close State highways”. Now, again, Madam Speaker, I know that recently you’ve had experience of closed State highways, and I know what would normally be a 2½ hour journey home took you over 10 hours, I think, because of our wonderful roading network, which sometimes, when there are weather events, there are major impacts. The fact that as I look at this piece here, new section 61AA says, “(1) The Agency may—(a) stop, divert, or otherwise control traffic on a State highway; or (b) close a State highway (or any part of it) to traffic.” It also goes on to say, “(2) The Agency may only exercise the power under subsection (1) if the Agency considers it appropriate to do so for the protection and safety of the public.” Now, we live in these Shaky Isles and there are many weather events and issues that go on, but also, it is around the safety and protection. So to have this in the legislation where it gives a little bit more teeth and a little bit more opportunity for the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) to make quick and important decisions to protect the public and also those decisions around being able to close a piece of highway, to be able to rectify some issues very quickly, makes a lot of sense. Those seem like really plain and ordinary things, but they can actually have and make a significant difference when it comes to the powers and the abilities for someone like the NZTA to be able to do their job and to do it well. As we’ve heard from many on this side of the House this afternoon, yeah, we do support it, but it doesn’t tackle the big issues around affordability. It doesn’t tackle the big issues around emissions reduction. I’m a fairly regular user of public transport, and in terms of addressing the issues of public transport accessibility, it doesn’t go far enough. Tangi Utikere: It’s a failure of this Government of public transport. GLEN BENNETT: It is. As my colleague and the spokesperson for transport says, it’s a failure. This Government has failed on public transport and we need to do better, not only for this generation but future generations, and to change the way we think about how we transit and transport ourselves around our cities, our towns, and our communities. Now, I think it is good that this legislation is around modernising our digital services, whether it be around drivers’ licences—and as the Minister spoke earlier, I know there have been moments where I have turned up somewhere and haven’t brought my wallet with me and have failed to have my driver’s licence on me, which is frustrating. Being able to have it digitised but then also making sure that that is protected and it isn’t something that doesn’t become, as was said earlier, a wholehearted identification service for the country but is actually just something that is practical and easy in this digital and modern world. When it comes to a digital warrant of fitness, again, I think it is just practical and moving with the times. The other point I want to make is around how it introduces flexibility for regulators to extend licences in emergencies. Now, this is one of those things that you never think you need to think about until you have to think about it. We look back on—which I don’t really like to, but in terms of our COVID days and what we had to do, and even now with the fuel crisis and the potential of what might happen with having to potentially—we hope not, but if we had to shut things down or for people to have less access to their vehicles, to get in and do those kind of things. So having flexibility for regulators to extend licences in emergencies, I think, again, is just practical. I know this is why they brought this to the House, and we support it. It also makes compliance easier, by allowing digital display of licences and certificates, and reducing that paperwork burden. I wasn’t part of the committee and I haven’t been over all the details of this legislation, but I looked through and we can say, yes, we are going to support this today, but we also leave the coalition Government coalition with the challenge of, what are they doing? This is a regulatory piece of work, but what are they actually doing around the transformation when it comes to public transport, when it comes to accessibility, and when it comes to tackling the bigger issues of affordability? We look at things like the electrification of our public transport network, of our personal vehicles, and of our business vehicles and we know that we’ve gone backwards. We need to make sure we are pushing ourselves, to make sure that we do what we can to ensure that New Zealanders have access to the transport needs that they have, because, often, it is reserved for those who have, and we want to make sure it’s available for everybody. We support this bill, but we ask that the Government to think seriously about what they can do to make sure we have a more affordable, emission-friendly to the environment, and accessible transport and public transport system. TIM COSTLEY (National—Ōtaki) (17:47): It’s time to bring this transport bill into land. Hon James Meager: I got it. TIM COSTLEY: I’m glad the Hon James Meager’s got it. Digital drivers’ licences, that’s the one highlight for me in this. It’s about time we got there. I feel like, you know, you go to the supermarket, everything’s on your phone; you go to a sports game, everything’s on your phone; checking in for a flight, everything’s on your phone—whatever we’re doing—so why couldn’t we have our driver’s licence on our phone? It’s a great step forward. A progressive step from a progressive Government. I commend the bill. SUZE REDMAYNE (National—Rangitīkei) (17:48): I commend this bill to the House. DEPUTY SPEAKER: The question is that the motion be agreed to. Motion agreed to. Bill read a second time.

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