Conflicts of Interest in New Zealand: A Comprehensive Bibliography

This bibliography provides a curated list of resources on the issue of conflicts of interest in New Zealand. Conflicts of interest in politics occur when a public official’s personal interests potentially influence their decisions, undermining public trust and potentially leading to corruption or abuse of power. These conflicts can stem from financial interests, relationships, or other factors that could compromise an official’s judgment.

The materials cover various facets of conflicts of interest, including ministerial conflicts, public sector procurement, regulatory capture, the revolving door between government and private sector, political appointments, and calls for systemic reform. Each entry below includes bibliographic details and a brief description of the item.

The bibliography is in three parts: Part One lists selected works by The Integrity Institute’s Bryce Edwards; Part Two details key investigative journalism and media commentary; and Part Three highlights academic and research resources. Each part is in chronological date order where possible.

Part One: Works by Dr Bryce Edwards

Bryce Edwards: “Political corruption in New Zealand.” 29 October 2010.
URL: https://liberation.typepad.com/liberation/2010/10/political-corruption-in-new-zealand.html
Summary: An early academic commentary on New Zealand’s paradoxically high clean-government reputation despite mounting political scandals. Edwards explores broader definitions of corruption – including conflicts of interest – beyond just bribery, arguing that issues like undisclosed donations and nepotism deserve greater scrutiny. He calls for more serious study of the prevalence of “soft corruption” in various institutions, warning that complacency about integrity could mask growing problems.

Bryce Edwards: “Questions over ‘corruption’.” NZ Herald, 22 March 2012.
URL: https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/bryce-edwards-political-round-up-questions-over-corruption/XIBBQIIX5TWJRVML72EHSD3WSM/
Summary: A column examining the Nick Smith ACC scandal, in which the minister intervened in a friend’s ACC claim, raising questions of corruption, cronyism and improper influence. Edwards discusses how Prime Minister John Key handled the fallout and debates whether an independent inquiry was warranted. He notes that political battles over integrity were intensifying, and argues that even “small” conflicts of interest or favours can be damaging, eroding public confidence in government.

Bryce Edwards: “The National Government is looking sleazy.” NZ Herald, 14 March 2014.
URL: https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/bryce-edwards-the-national-government-is-looking-sleazy/OVMWEULBZZPIYBY2PUUHCZXCW4/
Summary: Edwards argues that by early 2014 a series of minor scandals and ethical lapses had given John Key’s National Government a “sleazy” image. He explicitly warns that “perceptions of corruption, cronyism and conflicts of interest can be incredibly damaging to any government.” The column cites several issues contributing to this perception: ministerial conflicts of interest (such as Judith Collins’ involvement with Oravida), insider dealings exposed in the GCSB–Peter Dunne affair, and cronyistic deals (like the SkyCity convention centre agreement and the John Banks donation case). These examples are used to illustrate how accumulating conflicts and favours were undermining the government’s clean reputation and leaving it vulnerable on integrity issues.

Bryce Edwards: “Govt vulnerable on allegations of corruption and cronyism.” NZ Herald, 2 May 2014.

URL: https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/bryce-edwards-govt-vulnerable-on-allegations-of-corruption-and-cronyism/3ETCUHEPGMBJ2RZ2JRUXAVWVGQ/

Summary: Following the Maurice Williamson scandal, where the Minister resigned after interfering in a police investigation on behalf of a National Party donor, Edwards discusses the government’s vulnerability to accusations of cronyism and “special treatment for special friends.” This highlights a direct conflict between a minister’s public duty and their personal or political relationships. The article argues that such incidents, especially when cumulative, suggest a “troubling cosiness” between the government and its funding sources, damaging public trust.

Bryce Edwards: “The tricky business of mixing money and politics.” NZ Herald, 23 June 2014.

URL: https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/bryce-edwards-the-tricky-business-of-mixing-money-and-politics/L24VAEXCQKNZ7CMQC2QIC2R22Q/

Summary: This article discusses allegations surrounding political fundraising methods and the potential for these to create conflicts of interest or perceptions thereof. Edwards examines controversies related to how parties raise money and the questions this poses about transparency and undue influence. The piece highlights how the interplay of money and politics can lead to an erosion of public trust if financial contributions are seen to create obligations or privileged access for donors, thereby conflicting with a politician’s duty to serve the public impartially.

Bryce Edwards: “The Government’s problem with transparency.” NZ Herald, 22 February 2016.

URL: https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/political-roundup-the-governments-problem-with-transparency/P7ICCGGLMZ5JQ3OJL5BW72TMKQ/

Summary: Edwards contends that the National-led government’s handling of information and decision-making was undermining New Zealand’s anti-corruption image. The column points to concerns about opaque government deals and inadequate accountability, arguing that a lack of transparency can mask or enable conflicts of interest, making it difficult for the public to scrutinize whether decisions are made in the public interest or are influenced by private considerations.

Bryce Edwards: “Can the Auditor-General be trusted to combat corruption?” NZ Herald, 22 May 2017.

URL: https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/politics/political-roundup-can-the-auditor-general-be-trusted-to-combat-corruption/WU2TU2MZWI3OEFQQE522EL3CTE/

Summary: This piece discusses a controversy involving a former Auditor-General, Martin Matthews, whose previous leadership role at the Ministry of Transport coincided with a major undetected fraud. Edwards questions whether such a background, potentially involving unmanaged conflicts or oversight failures, could impact public trust in the Auditor-General’s capacity to effectively combat corruption and scrutinize conflicts of interest elsewhere in the public sector. It underscores the importance of integrity within watchdog institutions themselves.

Bryce Edwards: “The Government’s revolving door for lobbyists.” NZ Herald, 20 February 2018.
URL: https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/political-roundup-the-governments-revolving-door-for-lobbyists/2U5HK2DGG2JBYS4W44R3XMOP7E/
Summary: This piece shines a light on the “revolving door” phenomenon, where political insiders shift into lobbying roles (and vice versa), creating conflicts of interest and power imbalances. Edwards explains that lobbying firms in New Zealand often hire former ministers and advisors who bring insider contacts and information, potentially giving private clients undue influence over public policy. He notes that unlike other democracies, New Zealand has no mandatory stand-down period to cool off such moves. The column was prompted by news that the Prime Minister’s outgoing Chief of Staff took a job with a lobbying firm, exemplifying how public servants can leverage their government connections for private advantage. Edwards calls for rules to address this grey zone, arguing that the ease of New Zealand’s revolving door is undermining fair decision-making.

Bryce Edwards: “Be transparent about pundits’ conflicts of interest.” Newsroom, 4 March 2018.

URL: https://newsroom.co.nz/2018/03/04/the-conflicting-interests-of-commentators/

Summary: This article advocates for greater transparency regarding the potential conflicts of interest of political commentators and pundits. Edwards highlights that many commentators have affiliations with lobbying firms, public relations companies, or other organizations with vested interests in the political discourse they analyze. He argues that audiences need to be aware of these connections to assess the objectivity and potential biases in commentary, as undisclosed conflicts could skew public understanding of political issues.

Bryce Edwards: “An unprotected and risky revolving door.” Newsroom, 1 April 2018.

URL: https://newsroom.co.nz/2018/04/01/an-unprotected-and-risky-revolving-door/

Summary: Edwards examines the “revolving door” phenomenon, where individuals move between public service roles and private sector lobbying or consulting positions. He argues that New Zealand’s lack of regulation, such as mandatory cooling-off periods, creates an “unprotected and risky” environment. This practice inherently carries risks of conflicts of interest, where former officials might leverage insider knowledge and connections for private gain, potentially compromising impartial decision-making.

Bryce Edwards: “Government appointments under scrutiny.” 6 July 2022.

URL: https://democracyproject.nz/2022/07/06/bryce-edwards-government-appointments-under-scrutiny/

Summary: Examines recent controversies surrounding government appointments, focusing on Matthew Tukaki and allegations of nepotism concerning Minister Nanaia Mahuta and her family members receiving government contracts and appointments. Discusses the importance of scrutinizing potential conflicts of interest and upholding ethical standards to maintain public trust, highlighting the Cabinet Manual’s requirements regarding perceived conflicts of interest.

Bryce Edwards: “Time for Auditor-General to investigate Nanaia Mahuta’s husband’s contracts.” NZ Herald, 20 September 2022.
URL: https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/political-roundup-time-for-auditor-general-to-investigate-nanaia-mahutas-husbands-contracts-bryce-edwards/C7CLBQEEZQD64ZAR57N4ETJ3OA/
Summary: In this column, Edwards calls for an inquiry by the Auditor-General into government contracts awarded to a consultancy linked to the family of Cabinet Minister Nanaia Mahuta. He details revelations that several ministries and agencies hired Mahuta’s husband or relations for projects, and he raises concerns that proper conflict-of-interest processes were not followed. The article argues that, even if no favouritism was intended, the lack of transparency and management of these perceived conflicts has damaged public trust. Edwards suggests that only an independent investigation can determine whether the rules were broken and restore confidence that such contracts aren’t a case of political patronage or “insider” dealing.

Bryce Edwards: “Chris Hipkins hires a lobbyist to run the Beehive.” NZ Herald, 1 February 2023.

URL: https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/political-roundup-chris-hipkins-hires-a-lobbyist-to-run-the-beehive/LY35Z7FA6BARBNLO7M3BOONI6U/

Summary: This piece critiques Prime Minister Chris Hipkins’ appointment of Andrew Kirton, an individual with a corporate lobbying background, as his Chief of Staff. Edwards argues this sets a “democratically dangerous precedent,” highlighting the significant conflicts of interest that arise when individuals move directly from lobbying roles (representing private interests) into senior government positions with access to sensitive information and influence over policy.

Bryce Edwards: “The Horrific damage caused by forestry slash and vested interests.” 27 February 2023.

URL: https://democracyproject.nz/2023/02/27/bryce-edwards-the-horrific-damage-caused-by-forestry-slash-and-vested-interests/

Summary: This analysis connects severe environmental damage from forestry slash to the influence of vested interests within the forestry industry. Edwards argues that these interests have influenced policy to avoid stricter regulations, leading to socialized losses. The article raises concerns about potential conflicts of interest for the Minister of Forestry, Stuart Nash (who had forestry investments), illustrating how personal or industry financial interests can intersect with ministerial responsibilities for regulating that same industry.

Bryce Edwards: “Stuart Nash’s resignation shows our leaders need a lesson in civics.” NZ Herald, 16 March 2023.

URL: https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/politics/bryce-edwards-political-roundup-stuart-nashs-resignation-shows-our-leaders-need-a-lesson-in-civics/CKC3YZ62LZFHZMQJ2ZSIZSPSJU/

Summary: Draws lessons from Minister Stuart Nash’s resignation over inappropriate communication with the Police Commissioner, highlighting a lack of understanding of constitutional principles, ministerial conduct, and conflicts of interest. Edwards emphasizes the “mateship problem” in NZ politics where personal relationships compromise official decision-making processes.

Bryce Edwards: “Who will drain Wellington’s lobbying swamp?” 22 March 2023.

URL: https://democracyproject.nz/2023/03/22/bryce-edwards-who-will-drain-wellingtons-lobbying-swamp/

Summary: This commentary calls for reforms to lobbying practices to address issues of cronyism and associated conflicts of interest. Edwards outlines proposals such as mandatory cooling-off periods for political insiders moving into lobbying (the “revolving door”), a public lobbying register, and an independent Integrity Commissioner. The piece argues that unregulated lobbying allows vested interests to exert undue influence, often through relationships that create or exploit conflicts of interest.

Bryce Edwards: “Nash’s sacking means a deeper probe into Cabinet ‘insider trading’ is required.” NZ Herald, 29 March 2023.

URL: https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/political-roundup-stuart-nashs-sacking-means-a-deeper-probe-into-cabinet-insider-trading-is-required/ITH2DLKURJEPXIU3GVIPMPUQHM/

Summary: Following Minister Stuart Nash’s dismissal for sharing confidential Cabinet information with political donors, Edwards argues for a broader investigation. He likens this breach to “insider trading,” where privileged information is potentially misused to benefit supporters, a clear conflict between public duty and personal/political loyalties. The article suggests this might indicate a wider problem of casual favouritism and calls for an inquiry into Cabinet confidentiality and donor influence.

Bryce Edwards: “The Troubling report into Stuart Nash’s conflicts of interest.” 19 June 2023.

URL: https://democracyproject.nz/2023/06/19/bryce-edwards-the-troubling-report-into-stuart-nashs-conflicts-of-interest/

Summary: This article details the findings of the Cabinet Office review into former Minister Stuart Nash’s conduct. It highlights multiple breaches of the Cabinet Manual, including Nash’s communications with donors and his involvement in the appointment of a close associate and donor to a government advisory board, where he identified but, according to the review, did not fully manage the conflict of interest. The report’s findings, including Nash’s deletion of communications, underscore systemic issues in ministerial accountability and the management of conflicts.

Bryce Edwards: “The era of complacency over political conflicts of interest is over.” NZ Herald, 22 June 2023.
URL: https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/bryce-edwards-the-era-of-complacency-over-political-conflicts-of-interest-is-over/DM3FNAGHIJBG7PEWPBNWSEHBZA/
Summary: Written in the wake of Cabinet Minister Michael Wood’s resignation for failing to declare and sell off his shares in Auckland Airport, this column argues that New Zealand’s lax attitude toward conflicts of interest has finally hit a wall. Edwards suggests that Wood became a “victim of his own complacency” in not taking conflict rules seriously, and although there’s no evidence Wood corruptly used his position for personal gain, his disregard for the rules rightly cost him his job. The piece contends that New Zealand’s political class has generally been too relaxed about conflicts of interest, but the scandal and fallout mark a turning point. Going forward, Edwards says, ministers and officials will need to take integrity rules much more seriously, as public tolerance for even perceived conflicts has evaporated.

Bryce Edwards: “Should government departments be giving contracts to lobbying firms?” 9 November 2023.

URL: https://democracyproject.nz/2023/11/09/bryce-edwards-should-government-departments-be-giving-contracts-to-lobbying-firms/

Summary: This piece questions the appropriateness of New Zealand government departments awarding contracts to firms that also engage in lobbying. Edwards highlights the case of SenateSHJ and the Commerce Commission, arguing such arrangements create potential conflicts of interest. These firms gain privileged access and insights through government contracts, which could unfairly benefit their private lobbying clients, a practice often restricted in other countries.

Bryce Edwards: “Christopher Luxon needs to raise standards in the Beehive.” NZ Herald, 31 January 2024.
URL: https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/political-roundup-christopher-luxon-needs-to-raise-standards-in-the-beehive-bryce-edwards/53VUIP5YRNBLTKWQNKXRHUX5VE/
Summary: Edwards uses the change of government in late 2023 to survey New Zealand’s recent integrity lapses and to urge the incoming Prime Minister, Christopher Luxon, to clean up standards. He recounts how the outgoing Labour Government suffered multiple ministerial scandals in 2022–2023, including Michael Wood’s conflict-of-interest failure (owning shares in a sector he oversaw), Stuart Nash’s breach of Cabinet confidentiality to benefit donors, and other ethical breaches that led to resignations. These incidents, Edwards argues, gave the previous government a “sleazy” reputation and contributed to its defeat. The column suggests that Luxon’s National-led government must learn from these mistakes – tightening up conflict-of-interest rules, enforcing accountability, and rejecting “business as usual” complacency – if it wants to restore public trust in the Beehive.

Bryce Edwards: “Is Simon Bridges’ NZTA appointment a conflict of interest?” NZ Herald, 18 March 2024.
URL: https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/political-roundup-is-simon-bridges-nzta-appointment-a-conflict-of-interest/HOIZ7XBMGRFHVLPTGR4ITQNVX4/
Summary: This analysis examines the controversy around former National Party leader Simon Bridges being appointed chair of the New Zealand Transport Agency (Waka Kotahi) by the then Labour government. Edwards discusses whether putting a recently retired opposition politician in charge of a major government agency constitutes a conflict of interest or an inappropriate political favor. He notes that Bridges’ background as a past Transport Minister raises questions about how impartial he can be, and he highlights the criticism that such appointments blur the line between political service and public service. The column places Bridges’ appointment in the wider context of New Zealand’s lenient approach to the revolving door, and suggests clearer rules or cooling-off periods may be needed to avoid perceptions that top public roles are given out as “spoils” to political insiders.

Bryce Edwards: “Lobbying for Waikato’s medical school causing problems for the Govt.” 16 May 2024.

URL: https://democracyproject.nz/2024/05/16/bryce-edwards-lobbying-for-waikatos-medical-school-causing-problems-for-the-govt/

Summary: This article discusses the controversial lobbying efforts, particularly by former National Minister Steven Joyce on behalf of the University of Waikato, to secure taxpayer funding for a third medical school. It highlights concerns about deal-making, potential conflicts of interest for Joyce (acting as a paid lobbyist while leveraging past political connections), the Auditor-General’s investigation into the university’s hiring of Joyce, and the influence of lobbying on significant public spending decisions.

Bryce Edwards: “Is it time for an Integrity Commission to monitor conflicts of interest?” 28 May 2024.

URL: https://democracyproject.substack.com/p/is-it-time-for-an-integrity-commission

Summary: Following a series of integrity issues under the National-led government, including questionable political appointments (e.g., Murray McCully’s $2,200/day review role, appointed by a minister who called him a “political mentor”) and concerns about MPs’ financial interests, Edwards argues for an independent Integrity Commission. Such a body would monitor conflicts of interest, cronyism, and other ethical breaches, addressing what he sees as a growing “political murkiness” and a need for more robust oversight than current mechanisms provide.

Bryce Edwards: “Ministerial conflicts of interest under scrutiny.” 14 June 2024.

URL: https://democracyproject.substack.com/p/ministerial-conflicts-of-interest

Summary: This piece likely provides a contemporary analysis of ministerial conflicts of interest, possibly prompted by the release of the Register of Pecuniary Interests or specific emerging cases. It underscores the ongoing need for scrutiny of ministers’ personal interests (financial, property, business associations) and how these might intersect with their public duties, a recurring theme in Edwards’ commentary on political integrity.

Bryce Edwards: “Do housing assets cause a conflict of interest for wealthy politicians?” NZ Herald, 30 September 2024.
URL: https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/do-housing-assets-cause-a-conflict-of-interest-for-wealthy-politicians-bryce-edwards-political-roundup/TV7MANQQJFH6DJI6SHBWF6XU7E/
Summary: Edwards questions whether New Zealand’s political leaders have a personal stake in maintaining the status quo on housing taxes and affordability. He reports that, according to MPs’ financial disclosures, the average National MP owns over two properties and that both Christopher Luxon and Jacinda Ardern realized large tax-free capital gains on home sales in recent years. The column asks if it’s a coincidence that both major parties have firmly ruled out a capital gains tax. Edwards suggests that when so many lawmakers benefit from rising property values, it creates a potential conflict of interest that could bias decisions against reforms like new housing taxes or measures to curb the property market. The piece highlights a structural integrity issue: politicians’ personal wealth in real estate may be influencing policy, underscoring the need for greater public scrutiny of representatives’ pecuniary interests.

Bryce Edwards: “Do housing assets cause a conflict of interest for wealthy politicians?” NZ Herald, 1 October 2024.

URL: https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/do-housing-assets-cause-a-conflict-of-interest-for-wealthy-politicians-bryce-edwards-political-roundup/TV7MANQQJFH6DJI6SHBWF6XU7E/

Summary: This column explores the significant property holdings of New Zealand MPs (average National MP owns over 2.2 properties) and questions whether these extensive housing assets create a conflict of interest when politicians make decisions on housing and tax policies. Edwards cites examples of Prime Minister Luxon and former PM Ardern profiting from property sales while ruling out capital gains taxes, suggesting self-interest could influence policy decisions crucial to addressing the housing crisis.

Bryce Edwards: “Auditor-General damns the Govt’s charity funding processes.” NZ Herald, 12 October 2024.

URL: https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/auditor-general-damns-govts-charity-funding-processes-bryce-edwards-political-roundup/MJPG43ZVFRASDEZP7C6W4VWOGM/

Summary: Edwards covers the Auditor-General’s condemnation of how Minister Matt Doocey allocated $24 million to Mike King’s Gumboot Friday charity without proper procurement processes. This is framed as an example of favouritism and bypassing rules, where personal relationships or political considerations could conflict with the duty to allocate public funds impartially and based on merit, potentially constituting an abuse of office.

Bryce Edwards: “Ministry of Health’s conflict of interest error helps Casey Costello.” 31 October 2024.

URL: https://democracyproject.substack.com/p/political-roundup-ministry-of-healths

Summary: This article examines a specific instance where the Ministry of Health’s handling of a conflict of interest situation involving Associate Health Minister Casey Costello is questioned. It likely delves into whether advice provided or decisions made were inappropriately influenced by Costello’s past connections or advocacy related to the tobacco/vaping industry, and whether the Ministry adequately managed this potential conflict.

Bryce Edwards: “Auditor General inquiry into ministerial conflicts of interest.” 1 November 2024.

URL: https://democracyproject.substack.com/p/political-roundup-auditor-general

Summary: Edwards discusses the Auditor-General’s decision to launch an inquiry into how ministerial conflicts of interest are identified and managed, with a particular focus on decisions related to the Fast-Track Approvals Bill. This signals high-level concern about the adequacy of current systems for preventing personal or political interests from unduly influencing significant government decisions.

Bryce Edwards: “Should a former Act gun lobbyist be in charge of gun control reforms?” 16 August 2024.

URL: https://theintegrityinstitute.substack.com/p/should-a-former-act-gun-lobbyist

Summary: This piece challenges the appropriateness of appointing an individual with a known past as a gun lobbyist for the Act party to a role overseeing gun control reforms. Edwards argues this presents a significant conflict of interest, where the appointee’s past advocacy for a particular interest group could compromise their impartiality and public confidence in their ability to develop policy in the broader public interest.

Bryce Edwards: “Andrew Hoggard’s conflicts of interest and NZ’s culture of complacency.” 4 April 2025.

URL: https://theintegrityinstitute.substack.com/p/integrity-briefing-andrew-hoggards

Summary: This article investigates a specific case involving Minister Andrew Hoggard, a former lobbyist for Federated Farmers, facing questions about potential conflicts of interest due to lobbying activities by a family member (his wife, a lobbyist for the meat industry) within his associate agriculture portfolio responsibilities. Edwards critiques New Zealand’s broader “culture of complacency” regarding such ethical issues and the management of intertwined personal, professional, and political interests.

Bryce Edwards: “NZ’s ‘Chumocracy’ and the suppression of Prof Robert MacCulloch.” 20 May 2025.

URL: https://theintegrityinstitute.substack.com/p/integrity-briefing-nzs-chumocracy

Summary: Edwards discusses economist Robert MacCulloch’s concept of New Zealand’s emerging “chumocracy,” a form of soft corruption where close networks among political, bureaucratic, and business elites dominate decision-making. This environment, characterized by “cosy” relationships, can lead to nepotism, complacency, and the downplaying or ignoring of conflicts of interest, as loyalty to the network may override public duty or impartial judgment.

Part Two: Investigative Journalism and Media Commentary

Mike Hosking: “Supposed conflicts of interest in the limelight.” NZ Herald, 27 February 2019.
URL: https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/mike-hosking-supposed-conflicts-of-interest-in-the-limelight/SUDDKC4HVFI56F5ROVVKT57RJQ/
Summary: Newstalk ZB host Mike Hosking offers a contrarian commentary that downplays recent concerns about political conflicts of interest. Responding to Bryce Edwards’ alarm over former Labour Party president Mike Williams doing work for a scooter company (Lime) while holding roles in the transport sector, Hosking is dismissive. He questions whether Williams’ past positions (e.g. as NZTA and Auckland Transport board member) truly create any conflict with his current lobbying work, arguing that since Williams no longer holds those public roles, there’s no issue. Hosking’s column reflects a school of thought that some conflict-of-interest claims are overblown or “manufactured” scandals. This perspective provides a counterpoint in the public debate, suggesting that not everyone agrees on how serious or real certain conflicts are – especially once officials have left office.

Kate MacNamara: “Government contracts to husband and family of Minister Nanaia Mahuta ‘managed for conflict’.” NZ Herald, 27 May 2022.

URL: https://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/government-contracts-to-husband-and-family-of-minister-nanaia-mahuta-managed-for-conflict/H6FTGFEJH3VVGUVIZGARDUISQU/

Summary: This investigative report by Kate MacNamara revealed that firms owned by relatives of Foreign Affairs Minister Nanaia Mahuta, including her husband, received government contracts from ministries where Mahuta held associate ministerial roles. Documents obtained under the OIA showed these family members were hired for advisory work. While officials asserted conflicts were “managed” and Mahuta stated no involvement, the report highlighted strong perceptions of nepotism and conflicts of interest, prompting further scrutiny and public debate about transparency and ethics in awarding government contracts to ministers’ families.

RNZ News: “Nanaia Mahuta contracts: Probe finds poor handling of perceived conflicts of interest, but no favouritism.” 13 December 2022.
URL: https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/480643/nanaia-mahuta-contracts-probe-finds-poor-handling-of-perceived-conflicts-of-interest-but-no-favouritism
Summary: This RNZ piece reports on the outcome of the Public Service Commission’s investigation into government contracts involving companies linked to the family of Cabinet Minister Nanaia Mahuta. The inquiry, launched amid accusations of nepotism, concluded that there was no evidence of actual favoritism or dishonesty in the awarding of the contracts. However, it found that two ministries “failed to adequately identify and manage” the clear perceived conflicts of interest. In several cases, proper process wasn’t followed – for example, officials did not document or mitigate the fact that Mahuta’s husband and relatives were involved in firms getting government work. The article highlights the Commission’s call for agencies to tighten up their conflict protocols. The findings reassured that no corruption occurred, but the poor handling of perceptions underscored how even the appearance of a conflict, if left unmanaged, can damage trust and lead to public controversy.

Kate MacNamara: “Why Mahuta family contracts warrant scrutiny.” NZ Herald, 4 January 2023.

URL: https://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/kate-macnamara-why-mahuta-family-contracts-warrant-scrutiny/FROVTGWAEBCYHL57VLQ2OQU6QM/

Summary: In this opinion piece, investigative journalist Kate MacNamara argues for serious scrutiny of government contracts and appointments awarded to family members of Minister Nanaia Mahuta. MacNamara emphasizes that even if no rules were technically broken, “perceptions of nepotism” and conflicts of interest can be highly damaging to public trust. She calls for stronger safeguards to ensure merit-based decisions and transparency in public contracting and conflict declarations, critiquing potential complacency in addressing such issues.

Jonathan Milne: “Businesses asked to prove honest dealings with politicians.” Newsroom, 4 October 2023.

URL: https://www.newsroom.co.nz/2023/10/04/businesses-asked-to-prove-honest-dealings-with-politicians/

Summary: This article investigates a new integrity measure introduced amid heightened concern over conflicts of interest and cosy relationships between business and politics. Milne reports on a voluntary code pledging “honest dealings” with public officials, highlighting concerns about the “revolving door” problem and potential conflicts when former ministers take up private sector posts, creating perceptions of unfair access and insider advantage.

Guyon Espiner: “Lobbying and communications firm Senate’s ‘wildly inappropriate’ contracts at Commerce Commission revealed.” RNZ, 7 November 2023.
URL: https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/in-depth/501838/lobbying-and-communications-firm-senate-s-wildly-inappropriate-contracts-at-commerce-commission-revealed
Summary: In this investigative article, RNZ’s Guyon Espiner uncovers that public relations firm SenateSHJ – which also engages in lobbying – was deeply embedded inside New Zealand’s Commerce Commission, a government regulator, while simultaneously working for corporate clients in the same industries. Official emails obtained under the OIA showed that SenateSHJ staff were given Commerce Commission email addresses, access to internal systems, and even kept Commission laptops after projects. One Senate contractor helped shape the Commission’s high-profile study on supermarket competition, despite Senate having private clients in the grocery sector – a situation one expert calls a glaring and “wildly inappropriate” conflict of interest. The exposé raises alarm that a firm paid to advise the regulator could be indirectly advantaging its other clients, and it points to a lack of clear rules in New Zealand about agencies hiring consultants who may have divided loyalties. The fallout from Espiner’s reporting included heightened scrutiny on government procurement and renewed calls for rules to keep lobbying and regulatory roles separate.

Laura Walters: “Growing calls for independent watchdog to keep politicians honest.” Newsroom, 15 April 2025.
URL: https://newsroom.co.nz/2025/04/15/growing-calls-for-independent-watchdog-to-keep-politicians-honest/
Summary: Walters reports on the mounting pressure for New Zealand to establish an independent anti-corruption commission in the wake of multiple political integrity scandals. The article notes that recent controversies – including ministers failing to manage conflicts of interest, alleged cronyism in appointments, and other ethical breaches – have eroded public confidence and drawn attention to gaps in the country’s integrity system. Alongside New Zealand’s slippage in Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index rankings, these scandals have prompted academics, former judges, and international watchdogs to push for a dedicated anti-corruption agency or watchdog with powers to investigate conflicts of interest and corruption. Walters outlines how Australia’s robust anti-graft commission (ICAC) is seen as a model, and she relays arguments that New Zealand can no longer rely on its reputation and relatively informal systems to keep politicians honest. This piece captures a pivotal moment in 2025 when the creation of an Integrity Commission had become a mainstream discussion, directly spurred by unaddressed conflicts of interest and other integrity failings in prior years.

Part Three: Academic and Research Resources

Transparency International New Zealand: “Integrity Plus 2013: New Zealand National Integrity System Assessment.” December 2013.

URL: https://www.transparency.org.nz/docs/2013/Integrity-Plus-2013-New-Zealand-National-Integrity-System-Assessment.pdf

Summary: This comprehensive report evaluates the strength of New Zealand’s institutions in preventing corruption and managing conflicts of interest. While finding New Zealand generally strong on formal anti-corruption measures, it raises concerns about gaps in conflict of interest management, including risks of nepotism and inadequate oversight of potential conflicts in public appointments and contracting processes.

Cabinet Manual 2017 (updated 2023): Cabinet Office, Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet.

URL: https://dpmc.govt.nz/our-business-units/cabinet-office/supporting-work-cabinet/cabinet-manual

Summary: The official guide to New Zealand’s cabinet procedures, including detailed provisions on managing ministerial conflicts of interest. Chapter 2.60-2.84 outlines requirements for ministers to identify, declare, and manage conflicts of interest, including financial interests, relationships, and other factors that could compromise decision-making. This remains the primary official guidance on conflict of interest management for ministers.

Dale Goddard: “New Zealand’s approach to addressing conflicts of interest”. Presentation to UNCAC CoSP Working Group on Prevention, Vienna, 6 September 2018. (Deputy Commissioner, State Services Commission, NZ).

URL: https://www.unodc.org/documents/treaties/UNCAC/WorkingGroups/workinggroup4/2018-September-6-7/Presentations/GoddardNewZealand.pdf

Summary: This presentation by a senior New Zealand public official outlines the country’s framework for addressing conflicts of interest. It notes that in a small country like NZ, conflicts are “natural and unavoidable” and are managed through a devolved, pragmatic system reliant on voluntary compliance, statutory rules, common law (rule against bias), and codes of conduct. It acknowledges that undisclosed conflicts are a common type of domestic corruption and that complacency is a key risk, despite a culture that generally expects high integrity.

Te Kawa Mataaho Public Service Commission: “Model Standards: Conflicts of Interest.” (Public Service guidance, 2019).
URL: https://www.publicservice.govt.nz/guidance/model-standards-conflicts-of-interest
Summary: These official model standards, issued by the Public Service Commissioner, set out the minimum expectations for how government agencies should identify and manage conflicts of interest. Acknowledging that in a small country like New Zealand conflicts will arise naturally, the guidance emphasizes that having outside interests isn’t wrong per se – but all public organizations must have clear policies to handle them transparently. The standards require agencies to actively help staff recognize potential conflicts (financial, personal or otherwise), record disclosures in a register, and mitigate any risk to impartial decision-making. By mandating a proactive and documented approach across the public sector, the Commissioner’s standards aim to ensure that personal interests never improperly influence officials’ work, thereby upholding New Zealanders’ confidence in the integrity of government decisions.

State Services Commission: “Standards of Integrity and Conduct” (various iterations).

URL: https://www.publicservice.govt.nz/our-work/ethics-integrity-and-conduct/

Summary: Official guidance for public servants on managing conflicts of interest, including procedures for identifying, declaring, and managing potential conflicts in the public sector. The standards cover financial interests, outside employment, gifts and benefits, and other situations that could create conflicts between personal interests and public duties.

Office of the Auditor-General: “Managing conflicts of interest: A guide for the public sector.” June 2020.
URL: https://oag.parliament.nz/2020/conflicts/docs/conflicts-of-interest.pdf
Summary: This comprehensive guide, published by the Auditor-General, provides practical advice to public sector leaders and employees on handling conflicts of interest. It explains different types of conflicts – actual, potential, and perceived – and stresses that declaring and managing a conflict is the key to maintaining integrity (rather than trying to ignore or secretly handle it). The guide offers scenarios and checklists, advising officials to disclose interests early, in writing, and to remove themselves from decision-making where necessary. It underscores that even the appearance of a conflict can be as damaging as an actual conflict, because it can undermine public trust. By following this guidance – from setting up internal disclosure registers to instituting fair recusal and oversight processes – agencies can demonstrate that personal interests are not influencing their decisions. The 2020 update of the guide reflects modern expectations of transparency and was part of a broader effort to reinforce ethical standards in New Zealand’s public entities.

Office of the Auditor-General: “Conflicts of Interest: A Good Practice Guide” (various reports).

URL: https://oag.parliament.nz/

Summary: The Auditor-General has published various reports and guidance on conflicts of interest management in the public sector, examining specific cases and providing good practice guidance for public entities. These reports often arise from investigations into specific conflict of interest cases and provide recommendations for improving conflict management systems.

Helen Clark Foundation: “Shining a Light: Improving Transparency in New Zealand’s Political and Governance Systems.” August 2024.

URL: https://helenclark.foundation/publications-and-medias/shining-a-light/

Summary: This report examines perceived corruption risks and transparency deficits in New Zealand, including a significant focus on conflicts of interest in political and governance systems. It recommends strengthening conflict of interest frameworks, improving transparency in public appointments, and establishing independent oversight mechanisms to better manage potential conflicts across government.

OECD Working Group on Bribery: “Phase 4 Report on New Zealand’s Implementation of the OECD Anti-Bribery Convention.” October 2021.

URL: https://www.oecd.org/daf/anti-bribery/new-zealand-phase-4-report.pdf

Summary: This international assessment includes evaluation of New Zealand’s conflict of interest frameworks, particularly regarding foreign bribery risks. The report notes gaps in New Zealand’s capacity to identify and manage conflicts of interest that could lead to corruption, recommending stronger institutional frameworks and clearer guidance for managing conflicts in international business dealings.

Auditor-General of New Zealand. How Ministerial conflicts of interest were identified and managed in relation to Fast-track projects. Office of the Auditor-General, 31 October 2024.

URL: https://oag.parliament.nz/media/2024/conflicts-of-interest

Summary: The Auditor-General announced an inquiry into the systems and processes for Ministers to identify and manage conflicts of interest, with a specific focus on Ministerial decisions regarding projects included in the Fast-track Approvals Bill. This inquiry aims to provide assurance about how well existing systems are understood and implemented, particularly given the significant public resources and potential private benefits involved in fast-tracked projects. The OAG notes the importance of managing such conflicts to maintain trust and New Zealand’s reputation for integrity.