Does the Minister for State Owned Enterprises consider that New Zealand Post's engagement with small business owners affected by the January 2026 network changes has been "appropriate, proactive and, at a minimum, align with the engagement requirements outlined in the revised Deed [of Understanding]", and if not, what consequences, if any, will follow for New Zealand Post, its board, or its chief executive?

Answer

I am advised that the January 2026 network changes related to the urban retail network, for which the Deed of Understanding requires NZ Post to maintain a minimum number of service points and provide certain services, but does not specify engagement requirements. As outlined in the 2026 Letter of Expectations, Ministers expressed disappointment that communications regarding the January 2026 network changes were not as proactive as they should have been. Ministers expect improved engagement from NZ Post. Moving forward, we expect that all engagement with stakeholders is appropriate, proactive, and, at a minimum, align with the engagement requirements outlined in the revised Deed.