The Deed of Understanding is a contract between the Government and New Zealand Post setting out New Zealand Post’s social, price and service responsibilities.
In 1998 it was updated to reflect the new competitive environment. Compliance with the Deed is monitored by means of information disclosure regulations.
The Deed requires New Zealand Post to continue to provide a universal postal service – that is, delivery throughout New Zealand – for all New Zealanders and defines New Zealand Post’s social responsibilities as the following:
- Agreed delivery frequencies to a specified number of delivery points in New Zealand will be maintained.
- A minimum number of retail outlets (PostShops and Post Centres) will be operated.
- That a Rural Delivery fee will not be introduced.
- New Zealand Post will accept mail from other postal operators at terms and conditions at least as favourable to those offered to similar customers.
The Deed has been established for an indefinite period with its terms reviewed periodically.
Read the full Deed of Understanding (.pdf - 14kb) between New Zealand Post and the Crown.