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Next steps confirmed for Marlborough bylaw on beauty industry safety

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An Appearance Industry Bylaw is suggested in Marlborough to avoid serious health consequences like this laser tattoo removal procedure gone wrong

Council’s Environment and Planning Committee has agreed to the development of a draft Appearance Industry Bylaw, including a cost analysis of resourcing it, for further consideration.

The committee discussed a detailed report presented by Council’s Environmental Health team about the prospect of the bylaw. It is designed to improve public health and safety in the region’s beauty and industry practices.

The decision follows engagement with local industry operators and strong community feedback supporting better regulation. If Council decides to proceed with the bylaw, it will go out for public comment via a Special Consultative Procedure.

Currently, there are no national regulations for services in the appearance industry, such as tattooing, body piercing, manicures, waxing, and microneedling. However, 16 councils across the country already have bylaws in place. Under the Local Government Act 2002 (LGA), councils may create bylaws to protect, promote, and maintain public health and safety.

Council’s research has revealed an increasing number of injuries, particularly in the past two years, including infections

Council’s research revealed ongoing public health concerns, including inconsistent hygiene practices and a rising number of ACC injury claims, notably 26 claims in 2024 and 21 in 2025. Commonly reported injuries include lacerations, infections, and allergic reactions.

Surveys conducted with both industry operators and the public highlighted widespread support for a bylaw. Of the 101 public responses, 85 supported the initiative, with 46 per cent reporting an adverse health experience after a procedure. Seventeen out of 23 industry respondents also favoured the move, citing the need for consistent standards.

The proposed bylaw will set minimum hygiene and infection control standards, enable proactive inspections, and support Council’s statutory obligations under the Health Act 1956 and Local Government Act 2002.

Further consultation with industry, iwi, Pacific peoples, and Te Whatu Ora is planned to progress the draft bylaw.

To find out more, go to: www.marlborough.govt.nz/services/environmental-health/appearance-industry

Disclaimer

The information in this media statement was correct at time of publication. Changes in circumstances after the time of publication may impact on the accuracy of the information.

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