Regulatory guidance

Advertising Standards Authority

Upholding responsible, truthful, and ethical advertising in Aotearoa.

Advertising Standards Authority

The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) is the industry regulator for advertising in New Zealand. It sets the standards for responsible advertising through its advertising codes and runs a free, consumer complaints process. The Communications Council is a founding Member of the ASA.

 

The ASA also provides resources and guidance to help advertisers understand and meet compliance requirements.

ASA Explainer Webinar Series 2026

The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) has released its 2026 Explainer webinar schedule. These sessions are designed to help agencies understand the rules, reduce risk, and apply best practice across different areas of advertising.

 

Comms Council member agencies can attend these webinars free of charge. Request member access below to receive the registration code.

asa-2026-introduction-to-the-advertising-codes
Introduction to the Advertising Codes
Hilary Souter | ASA Chief Executive
22/04/2026 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Online event
This industry webinar outlines the Advertising Standards Authority rules, process, and New Zealand’s regulatory framework for advertising.
Register
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Alcohol Packaging and Labelling
Hilary Souter | ASA Chief Executive
17/06/2026 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Online event
Essential viewing for industry professionals involved in product design and advertising of alcoholic and low or zero alcohol variants.
Register
asa-2026-alcohol-advertising
Alcohol Advertising on Social Media
Hilary Souter | ASA Chief Executive
17/06/2026 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Online event
Straightforward guidance on the rules for brands, agencies and influencers when promoting alcohol on social media.
Register
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Ad Placement and Targeting
Hilary Souter | ASA Chief Executive
14/10/2026 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Online event
Join this practical session to learn best practice on the role of targeting and placement in responsible advertising.
Register

ASA Guidelines in Practice

Unlock strategic advantage through compliant communication. Nigel Keats, former ad executive and ASA board veteran, shares practical strategies to help you reduce complaint risk, respond confidently if a complaint is made, and navigate challenges from competitors.

Key ASA resources

AdHelp Information Service

A user-pays service where you can ask questions about compliance.

Use AdHelp
Decisions database

Complaints Board decisions (from 2015) that provide precedent and guidance.

Search decisions

Find out more on the ASA website

For the latest advertising codes, guidance, decisions, and compliance tools, visit the Advertising Standards Authority website.

Visit the ASA website