The Ministry of Regulation will focus on hospitality for its next industry review, a move welcomed by key industry leaders.
Hospitality New Zealand and the Restaurant Association have welcomed the Government’s announcement that the hospitality industry will be the focus of the next Ministry of Regulation industry review.
Minister of Regulation, Hon David Seymour, and Minister of Tourism and Hospitality, Hon Louise Upston announced the review, which will focus on regulations that apply to restaurants, bars, cafes, food stalls at markets, food trucks, catering businesses and hotels
“We’re pleased to see recognition of the significant regulatory and compliance pressures on the hospitality sector, and the complicated nature of the legislation that governs how we operate,” said Hospitality New Zealand Interim Chief Executive, Nick Keene.
“We know that across our respective memberships, the rules and regulations operators face place a strain on investment and employment decisions, and the ability to grow the sector as a whole.”
Restaurant Association Chief Executive, Marisa Bidois, said this regulatory review is something the Association and Hospitality New Zealand have been jointly asking for since the 2024 Hospitality Summit, and it’s pleasing to see our voice has been heard.
“We have a unique opportunity to support a comprehensive look at the red tape holding our industry back, and expect a strong set of recommendations that will support hospitality’s growth into the future.”
The Restaurant Association and Hospitality New Zealand are looking forward to working with Ministers and the Ministry of Regulation team to support the review.
For the purposes of this Review, regulation that applies to restaurants, bars, cafes, food stalls at markets, food trucks, catering businesses, and hotels is in scope. The gambling regulatory system is out of scope.
“Hospitality is a sector which was hit hard by Covid. Red tape and dumb rules make it hard for the industry to bounce back. Every Kiwi has a café or bar they wish was still open,” Seymour said.
“Inconsistent requirements cost owners valuable time and money. For example, some business owners might be required to get resource consents on top of alcohol licenses, so that customers can enjoy a cold beer in sun. In other areas of the country just an alcohol license is required.”
More news here.
