Press Release: EU approves New Zealand’s data protection standards in step to boost trade

The European Commission has formally recognised the adequacy of personal data protection in New Zealand, opening the way for increased trade with the European Union. The decision by the Commission recognises that New Zealand's data protection standards are compatible with those of the EU and that they ensure adequate protection of EU citizens' personal data. The aim is to facilitate the free flow of personal data across borders so that businesses handling data can rely on legal certainty in data protection rules, while maintaining a high standard of protection for Europeans' personal data – a fundamental right for citizens in the EU.