NZOAD March 2025 Updates plus Industry News
Wishing a great summer season to all
Below is a brief update from NZOAD, along with some industry news:
New rulings of Amusement Devices
NZOAD is remaining in contact with MBIE and WorkSafe in relation any new rulings, changes in regulations or issues arising with in the industry. Focus remains on the new MBIE definition of amusement devices after a recent legal case defining go-karts not classified as an amusement device. This will have significant impact for operators who will not be regulated as AD and fall into a grey area between AD and AAO.
It was stated by MBIE that they thought that up to 40% of current Amusement Devices may be deregistered.
MBIE need to state their position on this issue so that we can make a statemen and potentially go to the media
RSE and ENZ are scheduled to meet in person to make a statement and will coordinate this with NZOAD.
NZOAD have followed up with this at the end of September advising of the review, however, have had no response.
WorkSafe Certification Turnaround Times
It has been noted that the turnaround time for WorkSafe on issuing ride certificates has notably improved. Current turnaround times appear to be less than 21 days, with some being processed faster upon request. WorkSafe also seem to be more aware of technical clauses issued in certain ride certificates.
Local Council Inspections and Ride Permitting.
When inspecting rides for permitting at events, many council inspectors are keen to see fire extinguishers attached to each ride and current, as well as current electrical WOF. Good practice to double check before the event that all extinguishers are current and appropriate for the class of fire that may occur on the ride.
Industry news and Trends
Mahon's Amusements have debuted two impressive new rides in time for the season. This includes the Alibaba (Magic carpet ride whereby a gondola with seated passengers is swung around on a pendulum) and a new 15m tall portable Ferris Wheel.
AJ Hackett Bungee have noted that their domestic numbers appear to be down this season. Many operators have noted that at fairs and festivals retail spending is down. This is especially evident on food and games operations. There are reports that Air NZ is causing some supply and pricing issues within the domestic market which may affect local tourism demand, which in turn has flow on effects with restricted numbers for operators like us.
Due to global demand, there appears to be a delay of 2-3 years for the supply and manufacture of new rides. Many smaller operators are facing the pressure of being priced out of the market due to this demand surge.
Rainbows End new pirate ship ride is scheduled for spring
AJ Hackett has new Triple Swing coming at Kawarau and New Sky Jump Machine at SkyCity around June 2025
AALARA 2025 Conference
“AALARA25 is set to be the most highly anticipated event on the calendars of amusement, leisure and recreation professionals from across Australia, New Zealand, plus a few impressive industry friends from across the globe.” The conference is set to start on the 12 of May at The Star Gold Coast Australia with more informaation can be found here: AALARA
All the best
NZOAD team