This study attempted to provide a definition of interest groups fit for regulatory use in New Zealand. It developed a framework from existing academic definitions of interest groups, and applied this to legislative definitions from overseas. The aim was to examine the components of different definitions of interest groups so that an appropriate definition could be constructed for New Zealand.
While the framework approach as was useful, the academic definitions yielded elements that only loosely corresponded to those found in the data. This may in part be due to differences in purpose between regulatory and academic definitions. The common intent in the cases examined was to define paid interest groups, whereas the academic accounts had broader concerns.
A useful definition was able to be constructed however by combining elements to suit the New Zealand institutional environment and informed by the concerns of a broader literature about the relationship between public and private interests.
The definition suggested is best understood therefore as a definition of those interests that are organised and that communicate with government about certain government activities, with certain limitations. These interests can then be regulated alongside others such as the media, the public service, elected officials and non-national interests within a broadly coherent framework.
Further work is required on identifying appropriate regulatory approaches to interest groups, through a register, corporatist structures or some other mechanism. Such work should be treated as part of a broader project that aims to make better use of the unavoidable activities of interests in any political process and to strengthen the democratic system.
