Working paper

Regulatory Harmonisation - Issues for New Zealand (WP 01/01)

Author: Kevin Guerin

Abstract#

This paper discusses aspects of harmonisation of regulatory structures (occupational, product approval etc) between jurisdictions.

The primary focus is on trans-national arrangements, but many of the issues also apply to relations between central and regional/local government, and between regional/local governments.

The paper addresses a taxonomy of harmonisation approaches, who to harmonise with, how far and in what areas, and a range of implementation issues, before reviewing some relevant EU examples, outlining existing trans-Tasman regulatory relationships and current trans-Tasman harmonisation proposals, and noting some issues relevant to local government. It does not address wider economic integration issues or currency or political union.