Transparency statement

This transparency statement explains how we provide information to the public and use social media to engage with the community in Aotearoa New Zealand.

How we provide information to the public

Under section 88 of the Films, Videos, and Publications Act, Te Mana Whakaatu - Classification Office is required to provide information to the public about the functions and powers of the Office and the procedures for the classification of publications. The Office is also required to receive enquiries and complaints concerning the operation of the classification system established under the Act.

Classification decisions can be accessed on the Find a Rating page or the NZ Register page.

We can also provide copies of classification decisions upon request. You can request copies of our classification decisions by contacting our Information Unit inbox: info@classificationoffice.govt.nz

OIA requests

Our work is subject to the Official Information Act 1982 (OIA). You are entitled to request information from us under the OIA. People in New Zealand can request official information from us, and it will be made available unless there is a reason to withhold it.

We publish our responses to Official Information Act requests on our website. When we publish responses, personal information is redacted.

You have the right to make a complaint and seek a review by the Ombudsman of this response under section 28(3) of the OIA. Information about this process is available at ombudsman.parliament.nz or freephone 0800 802 602.

Find out how to make a request for official information here.

Social media transparency statement

We use social media as a communication channel. We use it with the objective of providing information and tools to the public, promoting transparency, fostering interactive relationships with our audiences, informing our own work, and enhancing trust in the classification system.

On our social media accounts we share:
  • information about the classification system and how it works
  • research insights, classification information, newsletters, and content guides
  • resources and information for rangatahi, parents, caregivers and communities
  • classification information about films, streaming content and video games

Engagement

We do not respond to all comments or private messages on social media. Instead, we encourage users to contact us through our office channels of physical mail, email or phone if they would like a response. If you have a query or question, please contact us directly via our Information Inbox: info@classificationoffice.govt.nz Or phone NZ: 0508 236 767 / intl: +64 4 471 6770.

How we use social media:

We love hearing from interested people and organisations and welcome all feedback whether positive, negative or simply curious, but we don't condone trolls.

Comments and posts are moderated by advisors in the Office’s Information Unit. We reserve the right to hide or remove comments that are offensive, threatening, or disrespectful, as well as those containing offensive language. Also, comments that are false, repetitive, or unrelated to the topic may be removed.

We may post on social media with the comments function turned off.

We aim to keep comments on our posts constructive and respectful. Users that continue to breach our guidelines may be restricted from commenting on our pages, and in some cases they may be reported, removed or blocked.

Anything that is hidden or deleted on our social media channels will be kept on record in line with our responsibilities under the OIA.

We may choose to share, @mention, or post information by other organisations and/or individuals for the interest and information of our followers. However, we do not endorse or guarantee the accuracy of third party information.

We may follow/like organisations and individuals that are relevant to our organisation. This does not imply an endorsement or guaranteeing the accuracy of their information.

Read more about engaging with us on social media here: Engage with us on social media

Māori language strategy

We are committed to supporting implementation of the Maihi Karauna – the Government’s Strategy for Māori language revitalisation coordinated by Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Māori.

We aim to keep our language inclusive and positive for everyone. We consider that using te reo Māori and terms like 'whānau', 'tamariki', 'rangatahi', and 'kia ora' on our website and social media doesn't affect how readable our content is.

If you are unsure about the meaning of a word we would recommend using www.maoridictionary.co.nz.

Enquiries and complaints

Members of the public can raise any concerns about the Classification Office’s work with the Office, including information gathering activities or use of social media. If you have any enquiries about our information gathering and social media activities, or believe we have not acted in accordance with the Transparency Statements above, you should contact us at the following address:

Te Mana Whakaatu – Classification Office
88 The Terrace
PO Box 1999
Wellington 6140
New Zealand

Phone: +64 4 471 6770

Email: Info@classificationoffice.govt.nz

All concerns and complaints will be dealt with in a timely manner.

Before making a request

Before making a request please check our other sources of information. You may find the information you require is already available.

More information can be found on our documents and reports page, including:

  • Previous OIA requests
  • Annual Reports
  • Statements of Intent
  • Our Chief Executive's expenses, gifts and hospitality disclosures

Related information