LOBBYING 101

BACKGROUND ON NZ’S LOBBYING INDUSTRY

You may be surprised to learn that there are zero lobbying regulations in New Zealand. In fact, in 2013, Members of Parliament put a halt to the 'Lobbying Disclosure Bill,' a bill that would have required New Zealand's lobbyists to officially register and adhere to clear regulations. Now, years later, we're beginning to see some movement in this area. But what exactly is lobbying, and how does it function in New Zealand?

Let's dive into a brief overview of the lobbying industry in NZ and explore why Lobby for Good has stepped into the market.

“Main political parties are risk averse and not prepared to get offside with key lobbyists and since it all happens in secret, the public are completely unaware and oblivious to it”

Sue Kedgley (former lobbyist and MP)

Lobbying has been a significant part of New Zealand's political landscape.

So, why hasn't it been on your radar until now? We've made a diagram to help explain.

AT LOBBY FOR GOOD WE OPERATE ABOVE THE GROUND SO YOU KNOW WHAT WE'RE WORKING ON AND WHY IT'S IMPORTANT. THROUGH OUR NETWORKS WE'LL ADDRESS ISSUES, IDENTIFY POTENTIAL OBSTACLES, AND ENSURE YOU'RE KEPT INFORMED ABOUT THE PROGRESS WE'RE MAKING ON THE CAMPAIGNS YOU'RE INTERESTED IN.

“Unlike some other Western democracies, a lack of legislation in New Zealand requiring transparency around lobbying allows activities and tactics to be kept hidden from public scrutiny. Subsequent research for this project found that media frequently do not identify that some news making organisations are in reality lobby groups.”