Health

What is an amusement device?

An amusement device is any mechanically powered unit that is used for rider entertainment. This includes fairground machinery such as merry-go-rounds, ferris wheels, bumper boats, bumper cars, and mini-bikes.

You will need a permit from Council to operate machinery such as these.

Bouncy castles and inflatable slides and non-powered playground equipment are not Amusement Devices so you would not require a permit.

Amusement devices must have a Certificate of Registration issued by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment. When you apply for a Certificate of Registration, the Department of Labour inspects the machinery to ensure it is safe to use

Applying to operate an amusement device.

You can apply through our Do It Online portal.

When you submit your application, you will need to provide the certificate of registration of the device and fee.

Hairdressers

Starting a hairdressing business

If you are opening a hairdressing business, you will need to apply to us for a certificate of registration.

You will also need to contact Council's planning team and building services team. This is because you might need resource consent or building consent to operate at a particular property, sort out customer parking issues or to add basins and counters to your premises.

Getting registered

Once you have resource and building consent, you can apply for registration. You will need to do this at least 14 days before you want to open. Complete a hairdresser's registration application and attach a to-scale floor plan showing all appliances and fittings. You can reuse the plans submitted as part of a building consent application if you have one.

After your registration is approved, we will inspect your premise to confirm all work is in accordance with the approved plans.

We will make regular inspections after you open the business to ensure you comply with health standards. Licences need to be renewed every year.

Learn more about hairdressing regulations.

Change of ownership

If you are taking over an existing hairdressing salon, you must tell us and complete a transfer of registration form.

You can apply to transfer an existing registration into your name, but we must receive your application within 14 days of you taking over the business.

After 14 days, the existing registration will lapse and you will have to apply for a new licence.