"The results show that banks and insurers continue to value their relationships with the Reserve Bank and recognise the professionalism, responsiveness and expertise of our people," said Angus McGregor, Assistant Governor Financial Stability.
The survey also found that 80% of stakeholders rated the Reserve Bank's prudential policy consultation process as 'good' or 'very good', with participants noting openness, engagement and opportunities to provide input as positive features of the process.
The feedback also identified opportunities for improvement, particularly in relation to communication, consultation planning and response timeframes. In response to a new question to deposit takers about other consultations, satisfaction with the Reserve Bank was lower, with feedback focused on ensuring consistent consultation planning and communication across all Reserve Bank consultation processes.
There were specific comments on the 'Keeping Cash Local' public consultation. The deadline for the consultation was extended to 31 July 2026 to allow more time for people and industry to respond, and for the Reserve Bank to share further materials. We have received around 6,000 responses, showing the widespread public interest in these issues. We are now engaging, and look forward to working, with banks to develop a voluntary solution that ensures cash meets the needs of New Zealanders.
"We welcome all feedback and will continue to use it to strengthen the way we engage with regulated entities. Maintaining open, transparent and constructive relationships remains a key priority for the Reserve Bank. We expect that firms will see the difference in the year ahead," Mr McGregor said.
The Relationship Charter was launched in 2018, and this is the seventh year the Reserve Bank has commissioned an independent survey of how stakeholders assess its performance against the Charter's commitments.
The 2026 survey was completed by senior representatives from banks and insurers, including board members and senior executives who regularly engage with the Reserve Bank. A total of 131 responses were received.
More information
Relationship Charter Survey 2026 Results (PDF, 2.13MB)
Our Relationship Charter with regulated entities
