The New Zealand Institute of Private Investigators (NZIPI) is committed to maintaining the highest standards of professional and ethical conduct at all times.
All members — whether operating independently or within an organisation — are expected to uphold these principles personally and collectively.
This applies to their conduct with clients, colleagues, contractors, and the general public, as well as their relationships with other NZIPI members.
Breaches of the Code may result indisciplinary action in accordance with NZIPI’s Constitution and Rules.
The Code sets out the ethical principles and behavioural expectations that underpin professional investigation in New Zealand.
It ensures that all NZIPI members:
This Code operates alongside the Private Security Personnel and Private Investigators Act 2010 and all applicable New Zealand laws.
1. Integrity& Professional Conduct
Members must act with honesty, fairness, and professionalism in all investigative activities.
They must:
2. Public Interest
Members must act in a manner that upholdsthe public interest and protects confidence in the investigative profession.
They must:
3. Accuracy and Transparency
Members must ensure that all representations about their services are factual, accurate, and not misleading.
They must not:
All marketing and advertising must be factual, lawful, and transparent.
4. Responsiveness and Cooperation
Members must respond promptly and professionally to any NZIPI Executive inquiries related to complaints or conduct reviews.
They must:
5. Confidentiality and Privacy
Members must:
6. Conflicts of Interest
Members must avoid any conflicts — real or perceived —between personal interests and professional duties.
They must:
7. Compliance and Lawful Practice
Members must:
Any breach of this Code may result in investigation and disciplinary action by NZIPI.
Sanctions may include:
NZIPI’s Executive Committee retains discretion to determine appropriate actions based on the seriousness and impact of the breach.
Complaints regarding licensed private investigators should first be directed to the Private Security Personnel Licensing Authority (PSPLA) — the government regulator responsible for investigating breaches of law or licence conditions.
Investigations into complaints are managed by the Department of Internal Affairs on behalf of PSPLA.
If a complaint also involves a member of NZIPI, you may notify us directly:
NZIPI will:
All complaints received are treated with confidentiality and assessed fairly and impartially.
NZIPI members are the custodians of professionalism within New Zealand’s investigative community.
By adhering to this Code, members demonstrate their dedication to lawful practice, respect for privacy, and service to the public.
NZIPI’s mission is to ensure that investigative work across Aotearoa is conducted with integrity, diligence, and fairness — values that safeguard both the profession and the public it serves.
Get access to certified, registered Private Investigators across New Zealand. Easily contact them by phone, email, or even LinkedIn (where available). Connect with the right investigator and get the answers you need.
