A PSPLA decision highlights how legal issues and immigration status can lead to the immediate cancellation of a security guard’s licence in New Zealand.

Nimilote Foueti Licence cancelled NZ

The Private Security Personnel Licensing Authority (PSPLA) has cancelled the Certificate of Approval (COA) of Nimilote Foueti after determining he is no longer a suitable person to work in New Zealand’s security industry.

According to the official PSPLA decision, Police applied for the cancellation based on concerns around Foueti’s legal status and failure to meet court obligations. The Authority reviewed the case and identified several key issues that influenced its decision.

These included the fact that a warrant for Foueti’s arrest had been issued after he failed to appear in court on an assault charge. In addition, a deportation order had been in place following the expiry of his visa, meaning he was no longer legally entitled to remain in New Zealand. The decision also noted that Foueti did not respond to the complaint or take part in the process.

Based on these circumstances, the PSPLA found that there were serious concerns about his suitability to continue working as a security guard. The Authority stated that holding a security licence in New Zealand requires more than just completing training — it requires ongoing responsibility, legal compliance, and the ability to meet regulatory expectations.

In this case, the Authority determined that Foueti is not legally allowed to remain or work in the country and that there is an active warrant for his arrest. Taking these factors into account, the PSPLA exercised its discretion to cancel his Certificate of Approval, effective immediately.

This decision highlights an important standard within the security industry: licence holders must remain “fit and proper” at all times. A failure to meet this standard can result in immediate cancellation.

Situations that may affect a person’s suitability include failing to comply with court requirements, facing unresolved legal matters, breaching immigration laws, or avoiding regulatory processes.

The outcome reinforces that personal conduct and legal standing play a critical role in maintaining the right to work in security. Actions taken outside of the workplace can still have direct consequences on a person’s licence and ability to remain in the industry.

Disclaimer: This article is based on a publicly available decision from the Private Security Personnel Licensing Authority (PSPLA). It is provided for informational purposes only and reflects the findings of the Authority. https://www.justice.govt.nz/assets/Documents/Decisions/2026-NZPSPLA-019.pdf