Authorities are cracking down on nail and beauty salons across New Zealand amid growing fears of money laundering, trafficking, and organised crime links. Reported by RNZ.
The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) has launched Operation Antic, targeting nail salons, massage parlours, and beauticians across the North Island after a sharp rise in complaints about illegal practices.
So far, 17 surprise inspections have been carried out, with officials investigating wage violations, poor record-keeping, and unfair deductions.
MBIE compliance manager Margaret Meafua said the initiative aims to ensure fair treatment for workers and identify possible criminal connections.
“The beauty sector has been prioritised due to a surge in complaints, especially in Waikato and Wellington,” she explained.
The Labour Inspectorate is also gathering intelligence to guide future operations. Businesses found breaching labour laws could face penalties, enforceable undertakings, or improvement notices.
“This is about creating a level playing field for businesses doing the right thing,” Meafua added, stressing that the investigation will help uncover the extent of non-compliance in the sector.
Staff would also provide education and support to help businesses understand their obligations.
Meafua said the MBIE teams were assessing the data collected during the Wellington visits and at this stage cannot provide details of issues of concern identified.
"Our teams will have a clearer picture of areas where non-compliance most needs to be addressed once this data has been processed and analysed."