Worksafe has set minimum safe working practices for carrying out any work near underground utilities such as power, gas, water and telecommunications. You are encouraged to read this guide before performing any works. The guide can be downloaded for free by using the following link https://worksafe.govt.nz/topic-and-industry/excavation/excavation-safety-gpg/
There are also further government laws and regulations that specify safe working practices and the penalties for carrying out unauthorised work near utilities. These include:
- The Health and Safety at Work Act 2015
- Electricity Act 1992 and amendments
- Gas Act 1992 and amendments
- NZECP34:2001 Electrical Safe Distances
- Health and Safety in Employment (Pipeline) Regulations 1999
- Electricity Safety Regulations 2012
- Utilities Access Act 2010
- Local Government Act 2002
- Cadastral Survey Act (2002)