WorkSafe New Zealand enters new era of reform

WorkSafe, New Zealand’s health and safety regulator, is undergoing significant changes, including shifting its priorities from enforcement to advice. In June 2025, Minister for Workplace Relations and Safety, Hon. Brooke Van Velden, announced a reform of the country’s health and safety legislation, with a sharper focus on providing clarity, accountability and critical risk oversight.

WorkSafe will shift to a more focused strategy, engaging and educating stakeholders and enforcing compliance where necessary. Proposed legislative changes also aim to bring greater clarity to governance and operational responsibilities, including a clear separation between governance duties (Boards and Directors) and operational management (Executive teams). Expectations will be reinforced on due diligence for Officers under the Health and Safety at Work Act.

New Approved Codes of Practice (ACOPs) 

WorkSafe will begin publishing new Approved Codes of Practice (ACOP), which will serve as a ‘safe harbour’ for businesses. If your business can demonstrate adherence to an ACOP, WorkSafe will be strongly dissuaded from pursuing prosecution following a serious harm incident.

Guide rather than enforce compliance

The Gallagher health and safety team has reviewed Cabinet documentation and is closely monitoring developments to ensure clients stay informed ahead of expected legislative changes later this year. 

Gallagher health and safety workplace expert Seb James says, “WorkSafe’s reforms signal a fundamental shift from enforcing compliance to guiding it. At Gallagher, we’re helping clients turn these changes into opportunities for stronger, safer workplaces.”

What this may mean for your business

As part of these changes, WorkSafe will be removing outdated or duplicate content from its website. This includes guidance that has been superseded, consolidated or deemed no longer relevant. 

If your current health and safety systems reference outdated WorkSafe guidance, it’s essential to review and update that material. The Gallagher health and safety team can assist with this process to ensure your documentation remains current and compliant. 

While these reforms won’t immediately change how you manage risks, outdated references may raise red flags during audits or pre-qualification checks.