A former chief ombudsman considered referring New Zealand’s health service for prosecution due to issues accessing official information, highlighting systemic problems with government transparency. This case exemplifies broader concerns regarding the effectiveness of the Official Information Act (OIA). The OIA is intended to provide public access to government information, but difficulties in obtaining this information are reportedly widespread. Critics argue the current system is too easily circumvented, leading to delays, redactions, and outright refusals. Calls are mounting for significant reforms to the OIA to ensure greater accountability and openness from government agencies. The issue underscores a tension between the public’s right to know and the practical challenges of information release within the New Zealand government. Newsroom reported on these concerns in a recent feature titled “It’s your right to get official information from the government – so why is it so hard?”