CEO’s Report

Welcome to our November 2025 newsletter.

Congratulations to all winners at the 2025 New Zealand Security Awards event held at the Grand Millennium Hotel in Auckland on 26 September, and especially our SPOTY (Security Professional of the Year), Ray Nisbet, from FIRST Security.

The awards continue to highlight the depth of talent within our sector and the pride that we take in maintaining the highest standards of service and conduct.

It was great to have the event sold out and the feedback from the 230 attendees has been exceptional. We have certainly set a very high benchmark in the quality of the venue, catering and entertainment for next year’s event to be held at Hui Hui, Parliament Building in Wellington on Friday 4 September 2026.

Also, special mention to Ministers Mark Mitchell and Nicole Mckee for their attendance and support, along with special guests including Trish McConnell (Registrar for PSPLA), Sunny Kaushal (Chair for Ministerial Advisory Group), Kari Scrimshaw (CEO for Ringa Hora) and Carolyn Young (CEO for Retail NZ).

For further information on the award winners please refer to later sections in this newsletter.

 

Escape, Hide, Tell – launch of New Zealand Crowded Places Strategy
During September the Police officially launched their formal crowded places strategy, introducing the public awareness campaign “Escape, Hide, Tell”. The strategy is focused on improving awareness, readiness and resilience in crowded public spaces – such as malls, events and transport hubs – against potential terrorist or active threat incidents.

Based on international best practice, it emphasises practical measures for both the public and private sectors, including risk assessment, coordination and response planning.

For the security industry, the campaign reinforces the importance of our partnerships with police, local government and venue operators. Security personnel are often the first to identify and respond to emerging threats, so understanding and integrating the “Escape, Hide, Tell” messaging into training, operations, and client communications will be key to ensuring consistent and effective public safety outcomes.

In conjunction with promoting the “Escape, Hide, Tell” strategy, the NZSA is supporting a specialist training program for a Security Control Room (SCR) Managers course being facilitated by NPSA (National Protective Security Authority) in Sydney during December. Look out for more information with regards to the course later within this newsletter.

 

Residency pathway for Security Technicians
We are very pleased to advise that after significant lobbying over the last year, Immigration New Zealand has now formally recognised Security Technicians within the Skilled Migrant and Accredited Employer Work Visa framework.

This is a significant and welcome development for our sector, which has been experiencing a well-documented shortage of experienced technical personnel. The new pathway recognises the increasingly complex nature of electronic security work – encompassing system design, networking, integration and compliance – and gives employers greater certainty when recruiting from overseas and for employees, certainty of a pathway to residency.

For our members this represents an opportunity to strengthen workforce planning and capability, ensuring our industry can continue to deliver high quality, technology driven security solutions across the country.

 

Biometrics legislation
We remind members that the Biometric Processing Privacy Code that creates specific privacy rules for businesses and organisations using biometric technologies to collect and process biometric information comes into force on 3 November 2025. Businesses already using biometrics do however have a nine-month grace period to move to the new set of rules. The transition ends on 3 August 2026.

The Code is designed to ensure that those businesses implementing and using biometric technologies are doing it safely and in a way that is proportionate.

For businesses who provide or use biometric technologies we strongly recommend that you are familiar with the Code and follow the guidance documentation provided by the Privacy Commissioner.

 

Development of pre-employment training modules
The NZSA, in collaboration with industry partners and training providers, has progressed work on a suite of Pre-Employment Training modules aimed at new entrants to the guarding and patrol sectors and seeking to apply for a Temporary CoA.

The initiative focuses on foundational learning in communication, conflict management, situational awareness and legal responsibilities – helping ensure that new security officers enter the workforce better prepared and aligned with employer expectations pending their undertaking the formal CoA training unit/skill standards.

Early feedback from pilot testing has been very positive and we are looking to launch the modules via the NZSA Training Hub by early 2026. Whilst pricing is still to be finalised, we intend to keep the cost very low as we do not want to place barriers in front of the individuals entering the industry.

We have also had very positive discussions with the Registrar for the PSPLA with regards to certification from the Pre-Employment Training modules to be a pre-requirement for application for a Temporary CoA, however timing for this will be dependent on a change to the current regulations.

Look out for notice of the launch date!

 

Introduction of Skills Group Scheme for apprentices
The NZSA is currently working with Skills Group to extend the current Group Scheme for electrical apprentices to include security technician apprentices, and to offer coverage to NZSA members.

Under the Group Scheme, Skills Group employs the apprentices and is fully responsible for all employment responsibilities, including the cost of training, but the apprentices are assigned to “host companies” who pay an agreed rate while the apprentices are with them.

The scheme is designed to provide a win-win situation for the apprentice and their host company.

For the apprentice, the objective is to gain the necessary on-job experiences to fulfil the task competency requirements of their apprenticeship. For the host company, the primary objective is to minimise risk and add value to their business.

Benefits for employers include:

• You don’t have to worry about all the usual employment related and training issues.
• You don’t need to make a commitment for the duration of the apprenticeship unless you choose to, which gives greater flexibility and reduced risk.
• You will typically save thousands of dollars over the course of their training.
• If for any reason the apprentice is not a good fit, you can send them back or seek an alternate replacement.

If this of interest, let me know and I can facilitate discussion with our contacts at Skills Group.

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
Congratulations to all the finalists and winners of the 2025 New Zealand Security Awards. The photos and profiles of the winners are now online together with the Awards photo gallery. Thanks to all our sponsors for their ongoing support.

This year we also had the pleasure of filming interviews with some of our Award winners – thanks to those who participated, and a special thank you to Ruth Tongotongo, Security Consultant at Beca Technologies and NZSA Board Cadet, for interviewing the winners.

Awards photos and videos can be viewed here.

 

Security Control Room Training – Responding to Terrorism Incidents

Security Control Room (SCR) Manager Training – Sydney, December 2025

The Security of Crowded Places in New Zealand Forum was held in Auckland on 22 and 23 July.

The CP Forum reinforced that the security industry plays a frontline role in preventing and responding to acts of terrorism, violence and public harm. With increasing global and local risks, including lone-wolf attacks and mental-health related incidents, the industry must continue to strengthen its capabilities across people, systems and partnerships.

The issue of training and professionalism emerged as the most critical area for focus. Multiple case studies, including Westfield Bondi Junction and Manchester Arena attacks, highlighted that failures often stem from inadequate training, unclear communication protocols and gaps in response procedures – not from individual staff, but systematic weaknesses. Staff need advanced scenario-based training, situational awareness development, lockdown protocol knowledge and behavioural detection skills.

This is particularly relevant for SCR’s (Security Control Rooms) where effective command and control are crucial to preventing and mitigating the impact of terrorist attacks.

Training Options:
We have investigated training options for New Zealand SCR’s and the world leaders in this area are the NPSA (National Protective Security Authority) in the UK, and who are part of MI5.

They have researched and developed an excellent portfolio of resources and developed training SCR courses specific to both Managers and Operators. Since launching the courses, they have trained over 2,000 Managers and Operators from sectors including transport, retail, local bodies, stadia and arenas, major events, office and government buildings as well as security providers.

We are pleased to advise that NPSA will be providing the SCR Managers Course in Sydney in December of this year (refer attached flyer). Numbers will be limited and we strongly recommend New Zealand operators of SCR’s consider the investment of having your managers attend this course.

SCR_flyer

We are in discussion with the NPSA to investigate the viability of holding future Managers and Operators courses locally during 2026 however there is no certainty that this will proceed given the significant costs and availability of the NPSA trainers.

If you are interested in attending the Sydney courses, please register directly via www.scrcourse.co.uk/aus.

 

Skillpod
What motivates security professionals to engage in learning?

What sets successful security professionals apart from the rest? It’s the drive to continually learn and develop. Explore the motivations behind engaging in learning and development.

For further information about engaging in learning and development please download the document What_Motivates_Security_Professionals_in_Aotearoa_to_Engage_in_Learning.

 

COA Conflict Management Training
Train the Trainer and Refresher Training for Trainers

Call for registrations

Refresher Training
$395 + GST
9am to 4pm
Penrose, Auckland

Train the Trainer Training
$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.

 

NZ Institute of Private Investigators
NZIPI are holding their AGM at the Novotel, Auckland airport on 20 November. Following on from the successful AGM last year, after lunch there will be an afternoon session, between 1pm and 4 pm, with three guest speakers. The sessions will be video linked to all members, and members of NZSA could join the video link if they wished by contacting our secretary at [email protected] for an invitation with a link to the video. The speakers are:

• Jared Savage – Investigative reporter and author of two books on organised crime in NZ
• Det. Sen. Sgt. Andy Dunhill – NZ Police – Money Laundering Team
• Karrina Mountfort – Specialist in AI Innovation & Efficiency

Ron McQuilter, Chair of NZIPI

 

Special Interest Groups (SIGs)

Security Training and Professional Development

Industry update: security sector prepares for vocational education overhaul

As we approach the end of the year, the security industry is gearing up for a major shift in vocational education. Here’s what you need to know:

Transition from WDCs to ISBs
From 1 January 2026, the Government will replace Workforce Development Councils (WDCs) with eight new Industry Skills Boards (ISBs). These boards will take over standard-setting and work-based learning responsibilities, with the Services ISB expected to retain oversight of security qualifications and quality assurance.

Some legislative provisions may be enacted earlier – late October or November – allowing ISBs to begin operations ahead of schedule.

Acknowledging collaboration, raising concerns

Industry representatives have praised the outgoing WDC team for their collaborative approach and strong engagement. However, concerns remain around the introduction of moderation charges by ISBs, which may affect training providers and course affordability.

New pre-employment COA induction package
The NZSA is finalising a pre-employment COA induction package to support new entrants. This resource will:

• Provide essential skills before applying for a temporary Certificate of Approval
• Be available via the NZSA Training Hub
• Be offered for a nominal fee
• Help standardise induction across the sector

Career pathways and professional development
Stakeholders are calling for a clear industry roadmap to guide career progression – from frontline roles to consultancy and management. There’s strong support for:

• Training aligned with real-world opportunities
• Pathways into related fields like policing and corrections
• Ongoing professional development

What’s next?

Despite the uncertainty, industry leaders remain committed to:

• Supporting staff through the transition
• Maintaining high training standards
• Advocating for responsive education and regulation

The next sector meeting is scheduled for late November, where further updates and strategic planning will be shared.

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

Andy Gollings, STPDSIG Chair

 

Security Consultants
The current focus areas for the Security Consultants SIG are as follows and an action plan for each of the focus areas is in progress.

• Crowded Places Strategy
• Biometrics / Facial recognition
• Critical Infrastructure
• Career Pathways and training
• Cyber Security
• Retail Crime

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

 

Partner updates

ACC
A little goes a long way: Westco Lumber’s recovery at work experience

In an industry where physically demanding roles and tight production schedules are the norm, injuries can disrupt operations and put pressure on teams. But a South Island timber business has found a better way — keeping injured workers connected to work and reaping the benefits.

Westco Lumber, a timber sawmill and distributor employing around 90 staff across Ruatapu and Christchurch, joined an ACC recovery at work trial to see what difference a workplace could make. The trial involved team leaders, senior management, and employees working together to review processes, develop resources, and track progress.

Some of the practical changes Westco Lumber focused on was introducing checklists for team leaders, improved communication with injured employees, strengthening relationships with local health providers, and expanding their list of modified duties.

As a result, Westco Lumber is seeing fewer injury claims, faster returns to work, and happier, more engaged employees, which is better for their bottom line.

Read and watch Westco Lumber’s story: Recovery at work a win for people and productivity.

ACC’s website has more information on the support available. Explore ACC’s recovery at work practical tools and templates: www.acc.co.nz/recovery-at-work

Ringa Hora
As previously mentioned the Workforce Councils including Ringa Hora will be disestablished in December 31 this year. They will be replaced by Industry Skills Boards, who will take over the standard setting functions for vocational training qualifications. Details of the ISB transition are slowly being released, it has been confirmed that Security will remain the services ISB. While the structure of the Services ISB’s has not yet been confirmed, engagement roles within the Services ISB have been prioritised. This will enable the continuity of service and relationships currently held between NZSA and Ringa Hora.

 

NZSA Membership

We welcome the following new Provisional Corporate Members:

AR Electronics Systems Ltd

CSL Wellington Ltd

DC Security Ltd

Dahua Technology New Zealand Ltd

Dúnamis Security & Investigations Ltd

Reset Data & Security Ltd

and the following new Associate Individual Member:

Mike Birrane

 

Events

NZISF breakfast meeting
Topic: The limitations of data privacy laws: global and New Zealand developments

This presentation examines recent global trends in data privacy regulation against the challenges posed by artificial intelligence (AI) including generative AI. The regulation of automated processing of personal information, by AI, is problematic. For example, transparency as to its nature and the right not to be subjected to it are very different concepts. Algorithm-generated information or inferred personal information pose difficulties for access and correction rights, when evaluative data, as opposed to facts are concerned. Aggregated and anonymised information is also problematic and allows circumvention of data privacy laws.  The presentation will also briefly examine the regulation of biometrics in New Zealand, which will be seen to extend well beyond biometric identification.

Speaker:  Gehan Gunasekara

Time:        8am, Thursday 13 November, online

Register here.