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New Zealand Government Procurement Rules in ‘final stages’ of approval

Nz Government

The proposed fifth edition of the New Zealand Government Procurement Rules is now in the final stages of approval, according to a recent update from the New Zealand Government, while Procure Connect – the Government’s new eProcurement platform – is also in the final stages of testing.

Michael Alp, General Manager of New Zealand Government Procurement, said he couldn’t confirm the final timeframe for the Rules, but announced his team is gearing up to support the procurement community during the transition phase.

“We’re developing day one guidance, webinars and other support to help government agencies understand and embed the new Rules,” he said.

Meanwhile, Procure Connect is also in the final stages of testing and assurance activities before it goes live, with a launch date set to be announced shortly. 

The platform is designed to streamline procurement processes and improve user experience, delivering quick, accurate and transparent data while freeing up time for more complex procurement work.

“We’re preparing for a soft launch, with our AoG External Legal Services (ELS) panel. We appreciate the active engagement from ELS suppliers and participating agencies as we prepare together for this big change in process.”

The New Zealand Government called Procure Connect “the one source of truth”, explaining that once a contract is migrated to the platform, users will be able to find everything they need to select and engage suppliers on that contract. 

“These are two key programs that have been a long time in the making. We’re excited to see them launch this year. I’m grateful to all those who have positively contributed to these initiatives, and I look forward to their upcoming release,” added Michael.

The New Zealand Government announced proposed changes to the country’s procurement rules earlier this year, in a bid to make it easier for local suppliers to win a share of the Government’s NZ$50 billion annual procurement spend.

Changes will include a new economic benefit test, while 24 rules that put unnecessary obstacles in the way of Kiwi businesses will be scrapped.