Postal services in New Zealand
New Zealand's postal market was opened to full competition in 1998. We are responsible for laws and regulations relating to postal services.
On this page
Our role
The focus of our postal policy is to ensure the regulatory environment, including competition in postal services, supports an efficient postal market in New Zealand.
Who can deliver letters
The Postal Services Act 1998 removed New Zealand Post Ltd's monopoly to carry standard letters.
This means any company or individual can operate a business delivering letters as long as they meet the requirements of the Postal Services Act 1998.
However, no one may carry letters for profit unless they are registered as a postal operator with us.
How to register as a postal operator
New Zealand Post's role
New Zealand Post is now a state-owned enterprise and is subject to a deed of understanding with the Government to cover its social, price and service commitments.
Unlawful postal activities
Posting dangerous or objectionable material
It is an offence to post dangerous or objectionable material. The law allows postal operators to hold suspicious or dangerous postal articles.
Opening posted items
It is an offence to unlawfully open a postal article that is not addressed to you, or to divulge its contents.
Contact us
If you have any queries about New Zealand's postal market contact us via email at CommunicationsPolicy@mbie.govt.nz.
In this section
Postal operators in New Zealand
This page provides information on applying to be a postal operator and your obligations and rights as a postal operator in New Zealand.
Postal register
Current postal operators in New Zealand, their postal identifiers and contact details.
Postal Deed of Understanding
The postal Deed of Understanding sets out the minimum obligations of the national mail carrier, New Zealand Post, for the sale and delivery of postal products.
Discussion document: Moving towards a financially sustainable mail service
We are seeking feedback on proposed changes to NZ Post's minimum obligations under the Postal Deed of Understanding.
More information
For more information about New Zealand’s postal laws, consult the Postal Services Act 1998 or seek independent legal advice.
Postal Services Act 1998 on the New Zealand legislation website(external link)