The Whistleblowing Service operates as an arm of the Banking Ombudsman Scheme (BOS). We provide bank employees with a safe and independent channel for reporting wrongdoing. We are funded by banks but are independent of them.

We are entirely separate from the Banking Ombudsman Scheme's dispute resolution activities. BOS staff have no access to whistleblowing case information. The Whistleblowing Service manager reports directly to the Banking Ombudsman. Our board monitors the effectiveness and independence of what we do.  

Our aim

BOS aims to promote high standards of conduct and maintain confidence in the banking system. Providing a whistleblowing service is consistent with this strategic focus.  It is in the public interest to ensure New Zealand banks operate with high integrity and transparency. There is a strong connection between the environment banks create for their staff and the resulting outcomes for customers.

Our creation

In 2018, the Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) and Financial Markets Authority (FMA) undertook a conduct and culture review. This review recommended strengthening staff reporting channels, including whistleblower processes. The New Zealand Bankers’ Association (NZBA) proposed establishing an independent industry-wide whistleblowing service, to be provided by BOS. We launched this service in February 2021.