Serious Fraud Office

The NZ Serious Fraud Office (SFO) was established to undertake the detection, investigation and prosecution of serious and/or complex fraud. That includes: * all fraud involving over $500,000; * all fraud perpetrated by complex means; * any other complaint of fraudulent offending which is, or is likely to be, of major public interest or concern.

The Director has full discretion in the selection of cases.

Experienced investigators and forensic accountants work together on investigations, under the overall supervision of the senior management team.

Prosecutors are also assigned to each investigation to advise on legal issues, including the exercise of the SFO powers.

In all, the Office comprises some 40 staff. Although based in Auckland, the office operates throughout New Zealand.