A former building inspector for Auckland Council has been sentenced to 11 months’ home detention after pleading guilty to 21 charges of accepting bribes as a public official.
Nicholas Bright accepted the bribes, which included cash payments and home renovations, in connection with his role as a building inspector, the Serious Fraud Office said.
It added the “corrupt activities” lasted for over two years.
The renovation work included gas fitting work, installation of a heat pump, double-glazed windows and a new carpet. The cash payments totalled more than $35,000.
Auckland Council referred the matter to the SFO after an internal investigation identified irregularities in Bright’s inspections.
Serious Fraud Office director Karen Chang said tackling bribery and corruption involving public officials remains a “key strategic focus” for the SFO – particularly where health and safety may be compromised.
“When public officials engage in corruption, it weakens New Zealand’s reputation as an attractive place to invest. As this case highlights, it can also have real consequences for everyday Kiwis, undermining confidence and trust in the safety and compliance of our buildings.”
Chang encouraged public sector professionals in key roles, such as procurement and finance, to engage with the SFO’s counter fraud centre.
“The SFO is committed to strengthening counter-fraud capabilities across the public sector. I encourage agencies to connect with our Counter Fraud team to enhance their systems and processes for identifying fraud risks and red flags.”
In being sentenced at the Manukau District Court, Bright received credit for pleading guilty early, remorse and cooperating with the investigation.
A company director who is linked to the case is set to appear in the Manukau District Court next month.
‘Significant breach of our trust’
In a statement to 1News, Auckland Council building consents manager Ian McCormick said it was “extremely disappointing” to learn of “this individual’s significant breach of our trust”.
“Thankfully, the council had good systems in place which allowed us to identify anomalies in the former staff member’s behaviour, and to quickly launch a full audit and investigation. This was followed by an immediate suspension and referral to Police.
“While the former staff member’s behaviour was unacceptable, we have thoroughly reviewed all work carried out in relation to this individual and have not found any evidence of compromised building work.”
