ASA - Advertising Standards Authority

Thank you for your support. It has been a busy year at the ASA and we are looking forward to a break over the holiday period.

Safe Christmas Shopping
At this time of year, it is easy to make hasty online purchases without checking the shop is legitimate. We’re supporting the Domain Name Commission’s #ShopSafeNZ campaign to raise public awareness about how to spot fraudulent sites. Remember, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is! Check out their #fakewebshop here.

New Gambling Advertising Code
The new Gambling Advertising Code came into effect on 4 November 2019 for all ads. The Code recognises that gambling advertisements must not undermine the need for the prevention and minimisation of gambling-related harm, with particular regard for the need to protect children, young people and other vulnerable persons. The Code applies to gambling advertisements for “pay to gamble” and “free to gamble” activities, products and outlets as well as betting on racing or sporting events. The Code was developed by the ASA Codes Committee, which includes advertiser, agency, media and public representatives, and in consultation with industry and public sectors.

What’s coming up in 2020
We have seen an increase in political and advocacy advertising in 2019 and expect to do more work in this area in 2020 prior to the General Election. We are investing more into resources and education to help both advertisers and consumers understand our rules for this advertising and the parameters around jurisdiction. In the month prior to the election we provide a fast-track complaints process to ensure prompt decision-making. Other 2020 highlights for us will include completion of the review of the Alcohol Code by our Codes Committee, promotion of our role through our awareness campaign, and research on community standards.

The ASA Boards and staff hope you enjoy a safe and peaceful break over the summer period. Please note our office is closed over the holiday period from Midday, Friday 20 December, reopening at 9am on Monday 6 January 2018.

Kind regards
Hilary Souter and the ASA team