OIA Requests NZ: Your Complete Guide to the Official Information Act 1982

Under the Official Information Act 1982 (OIA), every person in New Zealand has the right to request official information held by government agencies. This guide explains how to make an OIA request, what to expect, and your rights if information is withheld. It is written for NZ staff and members of the public who need to navigate the OIA process.

Who Can Request Official Information?

Section 12 of the OIA 1982 gives the right to request information to any person. This includes:

• New Zealand citizens and permanent residents
• People living in New Zealand temporarily
• People overseas
• Companies, organisations, and incorporated societies
• Media and journalists

There is no age restriction, and you do not need to give a reason for your request. However, agencies may consider the purpose of the request when deciding whether to grant it (e.g., for commercial gain vs. public interest).

How to Make an OIA Request

Making an OIA request is straightforward. Follow these steps:

1. Identify the correct agency. Determine which government department, ministry, or local authority holds the information. Check the agency’s website or call them if unsure.
2. Write a clear request. Describe the information you want as specifically as possible. Include dates, names, or reference numbers if known. Vague requests may be delayed or refused.
3. Send your request. Most agencies accept requests by email, online form, or post. Address it to the agency’s OIA officer or Privacy Officer. Include your name and contact details.
4. Keep a copy. Save your request and any correspondence for your records.

The 20-Working-Day Response Time

Under section 15(1) of the OIA, agencies must respond to your request as soon as reasonably practicable, and no later than 20 working days after the day the request is received. Working days exclude weekends and public holidays.

The agency may extend this time by a further 20 working days under section 15A if:

• The request is for a large volume of information, or
• Consultation with another agency is needed, or
• The information is held outside New Zealand, or
• The request requires substantial research.

If the agency extends the time, they must notify you in writing and explain the reason for the extension.

Grounds for Refusal

An agency may refuse an OIA request only if one of the specific grounds in the Act applies. The most common grounds are:

• Section 6: Information that would prejudice national security, international relations, or the maintenance of the law.
• Section 7: Information that would prejudice the commercial position of a person or organisation.
• Section 9: Information that would unreasonably invade personal privacy (unless the public interest outweighs the privacy interest).
• Section 18: Information that is not held by the agency, or the request is frivolous or vexatious.
• Section 18(c): The information is publicly available (e.g., on a website).

If an agency refuses your request, they must tell you the specific section of the OIA they are relying on and the reasons for the refusal. They must also advise you of your right to complain to the Ombudsman.

What to Do If Your Request Is Refused or Delayed

If you are unhappy with the agency’s decision (including a deemed refusal due to delay), you can complain to the Office of the Ombudsman. The Ombudsman can investigate and make recommendations, including ordering the release of information.

To complain:

1. Write to the Ombudsman explaining your complaint and attaching your original request and the agency’s response.
2. The Ombudsman will review the case and may ask the agency for further explanation.
3. The Ombudsman’s decision is not legally binding, but agencies almost always comply.

You can also complain to the Privacy Commissioner if the issue involves personal information.

Practical Tips for Making an OIA Request

• Be polite and professional. Agencies are more likely to respond helpfully if you are courteous.
• Ask for a specific format. You can request information in electronic form (e.g., PDF, Excel) or paper copy.
• Request a waiver of fees. Most OIA requests are free, but agencies may charge for large requests. You can ask for a fee waiver if the information is in the public interest.
• Use the agency’s OIA request form if available — it ensures your request is logged correctly.

For a complete list of agencies and their OIA contact details, visit the Ombudsman’s website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated: May 2026. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal questions, consult a lawyer or the Office of the Ombudsman.