A nationwide sweep to protect workers and fair competition

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) has launched a targeted enforcement drive across the central North Island to crack down on non-compliance in the beauty industry, particularly nail salons and massage businesses.

The initiative, called Operation Antic, involves unannounced site visits to businesses in Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Gisborne, Hawke’s Bay, Manawatū-Whanganui, Taranaki, Wairarapa, and Wellington. Inspections began earlier this year and will continue through the coming months.

The operation is led by MBIE’s Labour Inspectorate with support from Immigration New Zealand (INZ). It aims to protect vulnerable and migrant workers, ensure fair working conditions, and disrupt any links to organised criminal activity such as money laundering.

Focus on Wellington and Bay of Plenty

During October 2025, MBIE teams carried out inspections in Wellington’s CBD and the Hutt Valley, following earlier visits to Bay of Plenty businesses.

“The beauty sector has seen a rise in complaints and referrals, especially in the Waikato and Wellington areas,”
said Margaret Meafua, Labour Inspectorate Compliance Manager for the Central region.

“We’re taking a proactive, intelligence-led approach to disrupt non-compliant practices and support businesses in doing the right thing.”

According to Ms Meafua, intelligence gathered during these visits will help MBIE map overall compliance levels across the sector and guide future enforcement.

What Operation Antic looks for

Inspectors are checking that employers meet minimum employment standards, including:

• Written employment agreements for all staff
• Proper recordkeeping and pay documentation
• Lawful deductions and correct wage payments
• Compliance with minimum wage, leave, and break entitlements

When breaches are found, MBIE may use a range of enforcement tools:

• Infringement or improvement notices
• Enforceable undertakings requiring corrective action
• Penalties imposed through the Employment Relations Authority
• Education and support for business owners wanting to comply

Tackling organised crime and unfair competition

MBIE says the crackdown is about fair treatment for workers and maintaining a level playing field for compliant businesses.