CEO Report

Welcome to our July 2025 newsletter.

During June I had the pleasure of hosting the NZSA stand at the SecTech Roadshow as it visited Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.

Compliments need to go out to all exhibitors for the quality of their stands, and the turnout in each centre surpassed all expectations.

It was a great chance to talk to members, non-members and industry colleagues and the general consensus was that whilst the last year has been challenging, most are seeing a sizeable increase in business, and confidence levels are certainly positive.

On a separate note, we continue to receive a significant number of emails and calls from operational and frontline staff that indicate they are not reading this newsletter (and updates) and receiving information relevant to them. We strongly encourage our member organisations to have operational sign up for our communications or ensure that they are made available for operational staff. The newsletter subscription can be found at the bottom of the homepage on the NZSA website.

 

NZSA Board Cadet appointment
In our last newsletter we advised that we were seeking applications from individuals keen to join the NZSA Board as a Cadet for a two-year term.

The Cadet programme allows the candidate to gain knowledge and experience in the operation of boards and to upskill themselves for future board placements. Whilst the role is non-voting, the Cadets are fully immersed in board activity and also contribute through participation in one or more of the subcommittees.

We received six standout applications for the available position but after a rigorous interview process the Board Selection Committee was thrilled to announce the appointment of Ruth Tongotongo as our new Board Cadet.

Ruth is a security consultant with Beca’s Auckland office and brings a wealth of security experience to the position, including expertise in emergency management.

Recognising the high calibre of the applicants for the role, we are currently in discussion with those who missed out with regards to establishing an NZSA Future Leaders Programme and will hopefully be able to provide further information on this in future newsletters.

 

NZSA Board Chairperson retirement and appointment
After five years as the NZSA’s Independent Chairperson, Gray Paterson will be standing down from the position at our AGM in August.

Without any disrespect to our previous member-appointed volunteer Chairs, having a selected independent chairperson has bought significant gains to our organisation, and being able to tap into Gray’s expertise and governance knowledge has proven invaluable during his time in the role.

As advised in our last newsletter we received in excess of 30 applications for the role when advertised several months ago and the NZSA Board Selection Committee has conducted a very robust and rigorous selection process whereby four shortlisted candidates were interviewed.

We are thrilled to inform our members that Don MacKinnon has been appointed to the role effective from the AGM on 19 August.

Don is one of New Zealand’s leading employment lawyers and is a very experienced company director, particularly in the sport and not-for-profit sectors. He is currently Chair of The Blues Super Rugby Club and also Chairs the Sport Integrity Commission (previously Drugs Free Sport NZ) and the Integrity Vetting Panel for World Athletics. Don has previously served as a Director of NZ Cricket (and Chair of its High-Performance Committee), Sport NZ, High Performance Sport NZ, was Chair of Netball NZ, and chaired the Sport and Recreation Integrity Working Group. He has also held several commercial directorships.

In addition, Don has undertaken various assignments within the Security and Private Investigator sectors and has detailed experience working with Central and Local Government and was made a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (CMNZ) for his services to sport governance in New Zealand.

 

Launch of NZSA AI Agent/Chatbot
Within the next week or so you will be able to visit the NZSA website and utilise our AI Agent/Chatbot to answer a wide range of security-related questions, be they concerning industry licensing, training or operational capability and compliance.

This is our first foray into the world of AI, and we look forward to receiving user feedback.

 

Launch of new member benefit – AI coaching and webinar
Alongside the introduction of our web-based AI Agent/Chatbot we have launched a new Member Benefit programme with Bruce Ross of Ignite Business, who comes highly recommended by NZSAE (New Zealand Society of Association Executives).

 

Ministerial Advisory Group update
The NZSA continues to work closely with Sunny Kaushal and the Ministerial Advisory Group for Victims of Retail Crime, providing guidance and input into ongoing discussions on proposed legislative changes to citizens arrest and the use of FRT (Facial Recognition Technology).

We have also recently provided submissions to the Advisory Group on the personal safety and powers of security personnel and legislative options beyond trespass for dealing with anti-social behaviour.

Minister Goldsmith will be providing an update to invited security providers and stakeholders in early July, and we will ensure key outtakes from the presentation are made available to members.

 

Security of Crowded Places in NZ Forum
The NZSA is proud to be hosting the two-day Security of Crowded Places in New Zealand Forum on 22 and 23 July at Eden Park.

We are running the event in partnership with the NZ Police and CPSAG (Crowded Places Security Advisory Group) and it provides an opportunity to educate security providers, security consultants, owner/operators of events and venues, and other stakeholders on the crowded places resources currently available, and the learnings from various case studies, including the Manchester bombing and Bondi Junction stabbing incidents.

Due to budgetary constraints we have had to limit attendees to 100 and our apologies to the more than 30+ applicants that we have had to place on a waitlist should any cancellations come through.

Given the interest in this event, and the importance of the topic, we will look to host a further forum next year and potentially expand the scope to include security of critical infrastructure in addition to the security of crowded places.

 

OSPA’s (Outstanding Security Performance Awards)
The winners of the OSPA’s were announced last week at the awards dinner at the Ellerslie Events Centre in Auckland, and we extend our congratulations to all finalists and the winners.

The OSPA’s are an international awards programme operating from the UK with representation across some 48 countries.

Whilst the NZSA’s focus remains firmly focused on the New Zealand Security Awards, which he have hosted for in excess of 30 years, we are happy to support and promote events that recognise excellence within the security industry and particularly those who operate at the front line.

 

Complaint updates
One of the largely unseen functions of the NZSA is receiving, investigating and responding to complaints.

Whilst we do receive occasional complaints concerning allegations of poor service by our members, most seem to involve poor communication between the respective parties and can generally be resolved without any difficulty.

More common are complaints concerning non-members operating without the necessary licences. Depending on the situation we generally take a proactive approach by contacting the provider first and ensuring they are aware of the licensing requirements, but where appropriate I submit a formal complaint with the PSPLA under my name as that keeps the original complainant’s details confidential.

Those complaints are investigated by the DIA CIPU (Criminal Investigation and Prosecutions Unit) and where upheld, the Registrar for the PSPLA has the authority to impose fines or even to order the entity to cease providing security services. The investigation outcomes are published on the PSPLA website under the Complaints tab and provide interesting insight into the work done by the Authority.

Over recent months members may have seen articles in the media relating to two complaints that we have been involved in.

The first concerns Mr Craig Shephard, the owner of Harbour City Security, who in 2023 was convicted of four historical offences of male assaults female, and lost his claim for continued name suppression late 2024. The NZSA, along with the NZ Police, filed complaints with the PSPLA with regards to the suitability of Mr Shephard, and therefore Harbour City Security, to hold a COA and Security Licence respectively.

Following a full day hearing involving the defendant, his legal representative, witnesses and the complainants, the Authority determined that Mr Shephard may retain his licence, but under strict conditions including immediate cancellation should any further allegations of offending (current or historic) come to light.

Whilst we continue to be supportive of the PSPLA and their efforts to improve licensing compliance, the NZSA is very disappointed with this decision. In our opinion it severely compromises the expected standards for obtaining and holding a security licence, and reflects poorly on our industry and the licensing body when convicted offenders are granted leave to hold a licence.

We have our regular meeting with the Registrar, Trish McConnell, coming up shortly and will be registering our concerns with this decision and seeking clarity on where the bar is set given this case will be viewed as setting a precedent.

The second complaint relates to a recent RFP conducted by Oranga Tamariki (OT) and what we, and a number of our members and other industry providers, consider to be a flawed process. Our complaint focused largely on two areas, being OT’s engagement with an offshore-based organisation that at that time did not hold the necessary security licenses, and OT’s decision to accept submissions for what we consider to be non-compliant solutions.

We have received several responses from OT (including a response to follow up questions) justifying their approach, however we still have significant concerns with regards to the integrity of their process and the effectiveness of their preferred solution. Whilst not the outcome we hoped for, we understand that OT is conducting due diligence on the selected provider and the proposed solution and that there is still the potential for a review of the decision.

 

NZSA AGM
The NZSA 2025 AGM will be held on Tuesday 19 August at the Rose Gardens Convention Centre in Parnell, Auckland.

We will provide formal notification and RSVP closer to the date. The AGM is preceded by a complimentary light breakfast from 7.30am and the AGM will commence at 8.30am.

Please note that we have had three board members retire this year and we will be seeking to replace all three of them with a member vote.

For those with an interest in standing for the board, we will provide information about the nomination process within the next few weeks, and I would welcome a call or contact from anyone seeking background information about the process and the responsibilities and obligations of board members.

 

New Zealand Security Awards
We will be launching nominations for the New Zealand Security Awards in early July, and I encourage business owners and managers, customers and industry stakeholders to take the time to nominate those who have excelled in their roles and are the face of our industry.

We have 19 award categories covering a wide variety of security roles with the vast majority of the categories targeted at those in operational and frontline positions.

You will find more information on the awards event later in this newsletter and for those who are putting in nominations, I would encourage you to refer to the guidance document “Submitting a Winning Nomination” on the website.

 

As always, we welcome all comments and feedback on NZSA or industry issues and activity.

Keep safe and well.

Kind Regards
Gary Morrison
CEO

 

NZSA / Security Industry updates

New Zealand Security Awards
The New Zealand Security Awards Event 2025 will be held at the Grand Millennium Hotel, Auckland on Friday 26 September – please save the date!

Nominations opening soon!

Nominations are open to everyone working in the security industry. We will send out an update once nominations are open.

 

AI in Action for the Security Industry
Join us for a practical session designed exclusively for NZSA members on how to embed AI into your security operations. Learn how AI is already transforming rostering, reporting, and task scheduling, and what it means for your business.

If you’re serious about productivity and future-proofing, this is one not to miss.

Please register here.

For further information about the member benefits for AI Training, please see the NZSA website.

 

The benefits of microlearning in the security industry
Traditional learning methods often fail to keep up with the demands of modern security operations.

Microlearning, which delivers training in small, manageable chunks, is ideal for busy security professionals as it enhances knowledge retention and application.

 

COA Conflict Management Training
Train the Trainer and Refresher Training for Trainers – call for registrations

Refresher Training
10th September 2025
$395 + GST
9am to 4pm
Penrose, Auckland

Train the Trainer Training
10th & 11th September 2025
$750 + GST
9am to 4pm
Penrose, Auckland

 

For further information and to register please email [email protected].

The CoA training provides a critical role in giving new entrants into the security industry knowledge of the legislation impacting onto security officers, the essential knowledge and skills to keep them safe in their roles, including de-escalation techniques, and an understanding of expected professional standards.

It is imperative therefore that those who deliver the training have the necessary qualifications and experience, and are confident in delivering the course content.

In the absence of a Standard Setting Body holding responsibility for this, the NZSA has provided a Good Practice Guideline for the provision of Train the Trainer Instruction – a copy can be downloaded from the NZSA website. The Guideline sets clear expectations around pre-requisite training and competency, completion of the Train the Trainer course, and undertaking bi-annual refresher training.

We have also contracted subject matter experts to deliver the Conflict Management Training in accordance with the Guideline standards and to ensure the trainers of the CoA unit standards possess the necessary skills and competence.

Please note: the Conflict Management Refresher course includes assessment activity.

 

New Zealand Institute of Private Investigators
The Executive of NZIPI recently considered and voted unanimously in favour to enter into a Member Partnership Agreement with NZSA for all NZIPI members to be given the opportunity to become Associate Individual Partner members of NZSA. This Agreement was signed by our respective Chairs and already there has been a good uptake of members also joining NZSA, both individual and Corporate. While the two organisations will continue to act autonomously, NZIPI Chair Ron McQuilter said it is pleasing after all these year to see a united voice for the benefit of all professionals covered under our legislation.

Ron McQuilter, Chair of NZIPI

 

Special Interest Groups (SIGs)

Security Consultants
The Security Consultant Special Interest Group (SCSIG) has continued to meet enjoying wide and varied conversations. The group has been working hard to define its strategy and areas of interest, after much discussion and consideration these areas of interest are confirmed as being Career Paths / Training, Crowded Places, Codes of Practice, Critical Infrastructure, Biometrics/Facial Recognition, Cyber Security and Retail Crime. Over the coming week we will be developing action plans for each of these areas of interest.

The group has also been supporting the NZSA CEO Gary Morrison in the planning for the first Crowded Places Forum, to be held in July. This promises to be a great event and a positive step forward for the industry.

If you have any Security Consultant areas of interest which you feel deserves NZSA focus please contact Jonathan Howe on [email protected] or Gary Morrison on [email protected].

Jonathan Howe, SCSIG Chair

 

Security Training and Professional Development
Navigating Change with Confidence: Training and Development in the Security Industry

Significant changes are underway in the management and funding of tertiary education in New Zealand. While these shifts bring complexity, it is reassuring to know that sector leaders are working diligently to minimise disruption for learners. This enables us to maintain momentum – particularly in strengthening frontline leadership and enhancing the professional development of security officers.

As many readers are aware, the transition from Workforce Development Councils to a new vocational education structure is in progress. Although change can bring uncertainty, Te Pūkenga has provided assurance that current learners will be able to complete their qualifications without interruption.

The NZSA is committed to advancing training across the industry. To address the gap for new entrants who have not yet completed their COA unit standards, we are developing an online learning platform. This foundational training is designed to equip new staff with the essential knowledge required to operate safely and effectively, complementing employer-led onboarding programs.

In anticipation of potential legislative changes concerning citizen’s arrest, NZSA is also developing a standardised training framework for officers selected for roles involving physical intervention. This proactive approach aims to ensure that capability aligns with legal and operational expectations.

The newly approved COA Skills Standards mark a significant milestone. Developed in consultation with industry stakeholders, these standards reflect the evolving nature of security work and are designed to prepare officers for both current and emerging risks. Training providers are also responding with tailored, sector-specific programmes that support officers and supervisors in achieving NZQA-recognised qualifications – validating the skills acquired through practical experience.

At our recent group meeting we were joined by a senior aviation trainer who shared insights into scenario-based training. He emphasised that realistic, immersive training helps staff respond more effectively in critical situations, as familiarity with simulated events improves decision-making under pressure.

As incidents of violent and aggressive behaviour continue to rise across multiple sectors, the importance of preparedness cannot be overstated. By investing in professional development and working together as an industry, we can better support those on the frontline who contribute every day to a safer Aotearoa New Zealand.

We welcome enquiries from industry participants who would like to participate in the STPDSIG contact Andy Gollings on [email protected].

Andy Gollings, STPDSIC Chair

 

Electronic Security
It’s been business as usual through May for the Electronic Security Special Interest Group (ESSIG), with continued momentum across key focus areas including PSPLA licensing, engagement with the Cabling Industry Association and ongoing dialogue within the car alarm sector. These initiatives remain on track and continue to receive strong engagement from stakeholders.

A growing area of focus is the development of a Tech Trade Foundation entry pathway into the industry. This initiative aims to create opportunities for aspiring technicians by placing fully tooled trainees in short-term placements – at no cost to the host employer. We are seeking support from industry members willing to open their doors to the next generation of talent and play a direct role in building the future workforce.

To ensure sector priorities are addressed effectively, ESSIG has established several working groups. These include a team focused on supporting alignment with Australian/New Zealand standards, as well as a newly formed Biometrics Working Group, which will provide much needed leadership in this rapidly evolving area.

In light of ongoing facial recognition technology (FRT) trials receiving widespread media attention, the ESSIG Biometrics Group is actively gathering and interpreting feedback to provide informed, practical guidance on the use of FRT in both public and private contexts. Our aim is to offer clarity and help ensure responsible, standards-aligned deployment across the sector.

We welcome member participation and invite those who may be interested to contact either Mike McKim on [email protected] or Gary Morrison on [email protected] for further information.

Mike McKim, ESSIG Chair

 

Partner updates

ACC
ACC levy invoices are coming soon

If you’re an employer, you’ll usually receive your ACC levy invoice from July.

Check your policy details in MyACC for Business to make sure you get invoiced correctly.  ACC uses the below details to calculate your levy:

• Classification Unit (CU): this tells us what industry you’re in.
• Provisional payroll estimate: we get this from Inland Revenue.
• Employment status: do you work full or part time, or have you ceased trading?

MyACC for Business is the easiest way to manage your ACC account online.

Join the many other businesses who’ve made the move online and register for MyACC for Business. You can view information about your employees’ work-related claims, view and pay your levy invoice, or use live chat to talk to a customer service representative.

It’s also a good time to check your contact details are correct, and that your communications preference is set to “email”.

A variety of levy changes come into effect from 1 April 2025 that may impact how ACC calculates your invoice.

The changes include:

• a general increase in the average levy rate
• a new levy classification if you operate in the sports sector or runs a home improvement store
• increasing the minimum cost threshold for claims that count towards an experience rated work levy to $750
• changes to how interest is calculated on instalment plans, credits, and penalties (from 2026)
• removing the No Claims Discount (from 2026).

You may see a difference in the invoice you receive in 2025 or 2026, depending on your policy details.

For more on ACC levy invoices and the changes go to www.acc.co.nz/for-business.

 

MSD
MSD are excited to launch www.digitalsuite.co.nz as of 1 July! Digital Suite brings together free learning, coaching, job tools, and wellbeing support, all tailored to you. Whether youʼre just starting out, switching paths, or returning to work, youʼll get guidance and recommendations that match your goals, your experience, and where youʼre at in your journey. Itʼs support that fits around you – simple, practical, and always here when you need it.

• Learn new skills – explore free courses to build confidence with digital tools, workplace skills, and job readiness – at your own pace.
• Get support – access mentoring, wellbeing support, and personalised suggestions based on your goals. You donʼt have to do it alone.
• Find a job – build a CV and get practical guidance so you can take your next step with confidence.
• Track – see your progress all in one place.
• Profile – set up your profile and get personalised recommendations that match your goals.

Sign-up at www.digitalsuite.co.nz

 

NZSA Membership

We welcome the following new Corporate Members:
Bergin Observations Group Ltd
Bellarose Holdings Ltd trading as Access Automation NZ

and the following new Provisional Corporate Members:
GE Security Systems Ltd
National Guards Ltd trading as Rapid Reponse Security

and the following new Associate Company Member:
Verkada Australia Pty Ltd

and the following new Associate Individual Partner Member:
John Brosnan

 

Events

Facilities Integrate 2025
Registrations are open for New Zealand’s largest FREE trade event for people who manage, secure, develop, design, influence and revolutionise the nation’s buildings and facilities, returning this July.

With new and exciting partners, features, seminars, exhibitors and products Facilities Integrate will be the ultimate facilities management trade event of 2025.

Register here.

 

ACC Risk Webinars
From 1 July, ACC will be issuing their latest employer invoices and a large number of members will also be getting penalties because of workplace claims, which can be as high as 100%.

To assist with this, Manage Group are hosting several free webinars during July and August covering ACC claims and ACC levies. They will share practical and readily implementable solutions; provide the relevant templates; and provide their IP to help manage ACC risk.

Manage Group is still the only firm in NZ who do ACC brokering and have been leading the charge in managing ACC risk since 2011.

The first webinar is on 17 July covering ACC Claims and how to turn the penalties into discounts. It’s a 40 minute power session with Q&A.

There are so many ways members can drive substantial savings on their ACC levies as well as increase productivity, reduce absenteeism and remove the massive hassle factors that we know that come with ACC claims.

• Learn how counterintuitive medical certificates are and how you can manage them
• Learn what claims you can challenge even if the claim did actually happen at work
• Learn about the impact of health factors on Experience Rating and how they should be treated as per the legislation
• Learn about mental health claims and how they impact your levies
• Learn about the Trifecta of Solutions you should implement
• Learn what ACC doesn’t tell you!

Perfect for those who look after HR, H&S, finance, administrators, and those that are actively involved in supporting workers and the business in managing return to work programmes.

Manage Group has been around for 15 years and are the leaders (and only NZ owned firm) in driving ACC Claim Management across all employer levels from SME to those who self-insure.

Register here.

 

Member Benefits

Barker Business Brokers
Barker Business Brokerage are pleased to offer NZSA Members free, no-obligation business appraisals and if facilitating a sale, substantial discounts on up-front costs (marketing and AML checks) and commission.

For more information please contact Mike Ray, Business Broker, on 021 670818 or [email protected].

 

Rothbury Insurance Brokers
Rothbury are committed to developing a strong relationship with members and are introducing Todd Mountford, Regional Manager, as the main point of contact for NZSA members.

Todd and his team look forward to working with NZSA Members to review their current insurance arrangements, ensuring they have the right cover in place to protect their business and assets, and providing financial security following an insurable event.

Rothbury can also offer tailored solutions for employees, providing health and wellbeing benefits which increases both engagement and retention, as well as showing they are valued.

For more information or to discuss your insurance requirements please contact Todd Mountford on 027 4406935 or [email protected].

 

Guardhouse
Guardhouse case study – Watchdog Security

Guardhouse have published a case study about NZSA Member Watchdog Security, and the benefits of using the Guardhouse system. To read the case study please click here.

Guardhouse is an end-to-end workforce management system custom built for NZ security companies. Founded in Australia, Guardhouse is Australia’s leading security specific workforce solution, bringing our product innovation and unique workflow optimisation to the NZ market saving our clients both time and money. Our values that drive your success are customer obsessed, developing unique partnerships, simple yet powerful product design and consistent innovation and R&D.

Some of the funcationality includes, Rostering, Time & Attendance, Payroll & Invoicing + integration to accounting and payroll systemts, Welfare Checks, Incident Reporitng, Compliance Management, Company and Site SOPs with digitial signiture, Customer Portal Access, Tours and Patorls module and much more.

For more information see the Guardhouse website.

 

NZSA HR Advisory Service
A reminder to members that SuccessHR are human resource consultants available for any employment support regarding your employees.

Support offered at no expense to our members is telephone communication support eg. disciplinary, performance. You also have access to individual employment agreements. Any additional support would be charged to you accordingly.

For any support or further information please contact:

Susan Beange
Human Resources Team Lead
[email protected]
021 929 528

 

Strategic Defence
Strategic Defence provides specialist protective products to members of the security industry. These products include stab/ballistic vests, boots, fog-free protective eyewear, hand-held metal detectors, flashlights, and many more. NZSA members qualify for between 10-20% discount. Expert advice, support, and unmatched service.

For more information see the Strategic Defence website.

 

Building Networks Compliance Guidance
Building Networks are the leading authority on building compliance and they are offering a 20% discount for members: Building Networks website.

For industry news, updates, tips and opinions from the frontline, sign up to the Building Networks newsletter or visit their YouTube channel.

 

Mobilard
NZSA have an agreement with Mobilcard offering members fuel discounts

Key Benefits:

• Up to 16 cents per litre (including GST) discount off the pump price for all diesel and petrol purchased at a discounted Mobilcard acceptor sites. Minimum discount of 12 cents per litre (including GST).
• Available at 330+ sites nationwide. View www.mobilfuelfinder.co.nz to find an acceptor site near you.
• No card or transaction fees.
• No need to manage receipts for tax purposes, all managed under one account.
• Costs can be tracked easily with one monthly invoice. You can also have online access to multiple reports including the fuel consumed by individual vehicles.
• PIN number and purchase restrictions for added security.
• You must be a member of the NZSA to qualify for this offer.

A vehicle consuming 100 litres per week using a discount of up to 6 cents per litre = $6 discount per week..

A vehicle consuming 100 litres per week using the NZSA MOBILCARD discount of up to 16cents per litre = $16 discount per week

For a company fleet of 20 vehicles that’s potentially an annual saving of over $10,000 per annum.

The discount level is dependent on volume of fuel used per annum.

For further information please email [email protected].

 

First Aid and Refresher Training
Life Care Consultants have extensive experience with first aid training in the security industry and are offering NZSA members a 10% discount on all first aid and refresher training.

For further information please email Russell Taylor [email protected].

 

Keeping your team up to date

Like many organisations we are constantly looking for ways to ensure we can communicate effectively with our members and their teams. The best way to stay up to date on NZSA and industry news is via our newsletter. The more people from each company who receive our newsletter, the higher the chance of updates being communicated within the industry.

With this in mind, we welcome you to send us any company contacts who would like to receive our newsletter and we will add them to our distribution list.

Please email any contacts to [email protected].

 

NZSA member referral – strength in numbers

NZSA’s membership has grown strongly over the past year and each new member not only strengthens the Association and the security community, it also enables us to provide you with more benefits and services and a greater voice for the industry. So help grow your community and strengthen your Association by referring a prospective new member.

To refer a prospective member please email details to [email protected].

For details on member benefits please see the NZSA website.