New Zealand customs service: Changes over the last decade and into the future

Abstract

Like other border management authorities around the world, the New Zealand Customs Service has experienced a changed emphasis over the last decade from one of facilitation to one of facilitation alongside security. Agencies are, in many cases, being asked to articulate more clearly their contribution to broader government goals and work together in a 'whole-of-government' fashion. This has engendered a commitment to broader government goals and increased cooperation and connectivity with a wide range of government agencies as well as the business sector. Technological developments together with the proliferation of international alliances, trade agreements and standards, and changing business practices are similarly influencing the nature and functions of the New Zealand Customs Service.