Level playing field proposed Code amendments

Following our first Level playing field consultation, we are now seeking feedback on proposed Code changes necessary to introduce mandatory non-discrimination obligations.

The proposed amendments to the Code would impose principles-based non-discrimination obligations that the four large gentailers – Genesis, Contact, Meridian and Mercury – would have to follow.

This would prevent the gentailers from giving preferential treatment to their retail arms for hedge contracts. Instead, they would have to make these contracts available to all industry participants on effectively the same terms as they use when trading internally. This would ‘level the playing field’ so independent retailers and generators can better compete with the gentailers.

The non-discrimination obligations form part of a package of pro-competition interventions to boost competition, build confidence in the electricity market, and ultimately give New Zealanders better access to affordable electricity.

We welcome submissions before Tuesday 5pm 25 November 2025.

We will be hosting a webinar to answer questions about the Level playing field measures consultation paper and the Code amendments we are proposing at 1pm on Friday 17 October. Register here.