The New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs has published new guidance for high-value dealers on identifying and reporting suspicious activity linked to money laundering and terrorism financing. The guidance focuses on transactions involving goods such as jewellery, luxury watches, vehicles, precious metals and artwork, which the department says can be used to move, store or disguise illicit funds. The Suspicious Activity Reporting Guidance for High-Value Dealers explains when and how businesses should file a suspicious activity report with the Police Financial Intelligence Unit and sets out practical indicators of concern in high-value transactions. It also outlines the money laundering and terrorism financing risks associated with specified high-value goods, including cases where goods can function as a substitute for cash, be resold to legitimize criminal proceeds, or be transported across borders. The department highlighted examples such as buyers showing little concern about price or using unusual or complex transaction patterns.
Department of Internal Affairs2026-06-18
New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs issues suspicious activity reporting guidance for high-value dealers
The New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs has issued guidance to help high-value dealers identify and report suspicious activity tied to money laundering and terrorism financing. It covers when to file reports with the Police Financial Intelligence Unit, key warning signs in high-value transactions, and risks linked to goods such as jewellery, vehicles, precious metals and artwork.