If you’re planning to operate a food business (eg food manufacturing, restaurants and cafes, takeaways, and some temporary food stalls), you’ll need to apply for a Notice of Registration from us.

This ensures that food is prepared in a clean environment and using quality products, preventing any risk to public health from contamination, poor hygiene, poor preparation, and unsanitary storage and serving.

Notices of Registration are non-transferable. If you want to take over an existing food business, you will need to complete a new application for registration. 

MPI food levy – Effective 1 July 2025

Effective 1 July, an annual Food Business Levy will apply to all registered food businesses operating under a food control plan or national programme, as part of ongoing improvements to New Zealand’s food safety system.

The levy, introduced under the Food Act 2014, funds essential services delivered by New Zealand Food Safety that directly benefit food businesses. These include clearer food safety rules, better support and guidance, stronger compliance monitoring, and enhanced training and oversight for verifiers and territorial authorities.

New food businesses will be charged the levy at the time of registration. Existing businesses will be billed annually.

This investment supports a safer, more effective food system that benefits both businesses and consumers.

For all the details, please visit the page on Upper Hutt City Council’s website: https://www.upperhutt.govt.nz/Services/Health-and-safety/Food-businesses

Source: Upper Hutt City Council

06/06/25