Hon Nathan Guy
Minister of Internal Affairs

11 December 2009
Media Statement

Minister launches online gateway to government services

Internal Affairs Minister Nathan Guy has launched a new identity verification service (IVS) allowing people to access more government services online.

The igovt ID lets customers order certificates or printouts of recent birth, death, marriage and civil union records online, avoiding the hassle of having to prove their identity in person for every transaction.

“This is another significant step towards online access to a range of government services. It will assist people researching their family history and much more.

“Once customers have registered in person with the Department, this is a secure and convenient way of proving who you are over the internet.”

Mr Guy has signed up for the free service himself this morning at the Department of Internal Affairs mobile office using his passport and cellphone.

"I signed up and got myself a username and password. It’s straightforward and I can see that it will save time for people who regularly seek this information.

"The government wants innovations in the public service like this to improve front line services.

“This initiative puts New Zealand at the forefront of international efforts in designing secure identity verification services.”

Further information:
More information about IVS, including the times, dates and places to sign up: www.dia.govt.nz/ivs
BDM online ordering service: http://bdmonline.dia.govt.nz
More information about igovt services: www.igovt.nz

ENDS

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