Bribery Offences

1. What is the legal framework governing bribery in New Zealand?

• The Crimes Act 1961 (CA) is the key piece of legislation governing bribery in New Zealand. Part 6 of the CA (ss 99 – 106) deals with bribery and corruption in respect of public sector corruption in New Zealand (NZ). The Serious Fraud Office and the New Zealand Police have joint responsibility for investigating bribery matters. 
• The Secret Commissions Act 1910 (SCA) deals with bribery in respect of private sector corruption. The key corruption offence criminalizes the bribing of an agent who is working on behalf of a principal. 
• The Organised Crime and Anti-corruption Legislation Bill was introduced in 2014 and is now at its third reading. This bill will look to amend parts of the CA and in particular bribery provisions that deal with foreign public officials.