Privacy and Transparency Statement

This statement explains how we collect, use and share information gathered about or from members of the public or other entities (directly or indirectly) through the Law Commission’s website, www.lawcom.govt.nz.

The statement applies to information gathered by us, our contractors, or any other third party engaged by us.

Security of information

The security of this information is managed in compliance with the Privacy Act 2020, the Official Information Act 1982, the Public Records Act 2005 and government Protective Security Requirements. The information we hold is used only for the purpose for which it is collected.

Where we have serious concerns regarding potential threats to the security of information, we will engage an appropriate authority (such as the Police).

Information collection for law enforcement or regulatory compliance

The Law Commission does not have any law enforcement or regulatory compliance responsibilities, and does not gather any information for these purposes.

Should we identify a need to gather such information, we will ensure compliance with Information Gathering and Public Trust Standards, and will update this statement.

Statistical information on visits to our website and use of cookies

When you visit our website to read or download information, we automatically record some statistical information about your visit to help improve the site. The information is aggregated and doesn’t identify site users personally. It may include, for example:

  • the screen resolution of your PC
  • the type of browser you use
  • the type of operating system you have
  • the date and time you accessed our site
  • the pages you have accessed and the documents downloaded
  • the internet address from which you accessed our site
  • the search terms you used to find content on our site; and
  • the last site you visited before you accessed our site.

We currently use Google Analytics to help analyse visits to this site. This analytical tool uses “cookies”, which are text files placed on your computer to collect standard internet log information and visitor behaviour information in an anonymous form. This data is used to compile statistical reports on website activity.

You have the ability to accept or decline cookies by modifying your browser settings. Disabling cookies will not affect your ability to use this website.

Use the "Help" function in your browser to find out how to disable/enable cookies.

Personal information we collect through our website

We collect personal information when you:

  • subscribe to our updates through our website
  • make a submission via the website in response to a consultation document
  • use our website to correspond with us in any other way.

Subscribing to our mailing list

If you subscribe to our updates through this website, we record your email address. We use your email address to send you announcements about Law Commission publications and developments. We will not disclose your email address to any third parties without your consent.

You can unsubscribe at any time. If you have any difficulty in unsubscribing from the mailing list, please contact us.

Release of information

Submissions and other correspondence may be the subject of a request under the Official Information Act 1982, which could result in their release. We use this Act to determine whether we can withhold information on the grounds of privacy, or for any other reason.

We may also proactively release submissions or other information on our website. Prior to proactive release, we will ensure that material for release complies with legislative requirements, and any other terms or conditions the Commission has prescribed for the proactive release of that material.

Queries and concerns

If you have any queries about this statement or believe we have not acted in accordance with it, please contact us at com@lawcom.govt.nz or 0800 832 526.