Most public records of long term archival value are transferred to Archives New Zealand's custody. Agencies should contact Archives New Zealand as early as possible, so that the transfer process can be planned effectively. The Wellington office operates a planned transfer programme, so transfers need to be booked well in advance. There are also specific standards for the listing and packaging of records that agencies need to meet. It is necessary to determine appropriate access conditions for the records before they are transferred.
The Transfer Factsheet describes the processes involved in transferring records to Archives New Zealand.
The Transfer Process Diagram gives a visual overview to the transfer processes.
Recordkeeping advice
The Client Capability Directorate offers free advice and guidance on all aspects of recordkeeping including:
Contact us if you require advice
Standards and guides
Archives New Zealand creates various recordkeeping Standards and other tools for use in government agencies. These are available on the Continuum publications page.
Advice on transfer and destruction
Transfer Factsheet
Transfer Process Diagram
Preparing Records for Transfer: A Guide to Listing and Boxing [Under Revision - contact the Government Recordkeeping Programme for more information]
List template
Transfer Agreement Form
Arranging the Transport of Records for Transfer to Archives New Zealand Factsheet
Permission to dispose of records
The Chief Archivist must approve the disposal of all government records, including those being transferred to another agency. More information on this is available in the Records Appraisal and Disposal section of this website.
Factsheet: Methods of Destruction
Advice on how to apply access restrictions to particular records
An Access Authority must cover all records transferred to Archives New Zealand. Such authorities should be discussed prior to transfer with the Disposal and Acquisition Section.
Please contact Archives New Zealand if you require forms for disposal, transfer or access
Advisory Notice ‘Making Access Decisions under the Public Records Act’
Access Authority Form
Access Standard