The govt.nz app

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mrdrifter

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#3443272 12-Dec-2025 19:59

Stu1:

freitasm:

I am not sure RealMe is a waste. It is used across domains and services, it helps with some document requests.

I would think RealMe needs a wider adoption but it is something interesting.

Conceptually it’s a good idea but it’s such a barrier for customers to set up reset passwords. Uptake of apps using RealMe is low, that’s why a lot of Govt departments are looking at social media logins. It needs a complete overhaul, there are still old Igovt log ins there . It’s terrible

The capability to create a relationship between a RealMe account and social accounts and other IDPs was actually factored into the underlying architecture of the RealMe version that has been running since ~2018/19. This was proposed to DIA at the time as it became super easy to implement when they moved from traditional SAML on ADFS to B2C. Unfortunately it was never progressed as it would have improved the user experience.

freitasm

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#3443459 13-Dec-2025 08:22

freitasm:

They either are inundated with feedback or don't care, because I have not receive a reply or acknowledgement of my report on this not working on a new phone.

They did send a reply, after 24 hours. The reply was sent to quarantine by Office 365, so I was notified about it another 24 hours later.

You mau have seen my previous reply saying the app started working for me.

Anyway, These are my comments:

"Installed the app on a brand new OPPO X9, running Android 16 with November 2025 updates. The app starts and shows a screen "This device does not meet the govt.nz requirements"

Here is their reply:

Thank you for your feedback.

We have adjusted some of the security settings to improve usability, however given the nature of functionality that will be introduced in the app, security requirements will increase further to safeguard users’ credentials.

To ensure continued access, please check that your device is running a supported version (minimum: Android 13 or iOS 18) and that all firmware and security patches are up to date. Devices that are outdated or not fully patched may not meet the required security standards and could experience access issues.

As I imagined, some of the security is enforced server-side.

The last paragraph is just a boilerplate, seeing that is not applicable to my case, as I clearly mentioned the device is already running Android 16 woth the latest security update.

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Ragnor

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#3444437 16-Dec-2025 00:19

freitasm:

As I imagined, some of the security is enforced server-side.

The last paragraph is just a boilerplate, seeing that is not applicable to my case, as I clearly mentioned the device is already running Android 16 woth the latest security update.

Fools errand trying to police allowed devices, just set a sane minimum IOS and Android version and move those forward every few years. Everyone else can just use the regular website/web app in a regular web browser.

freitasm

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#3472050 20-Mar-2026 16:50

Press release:

Significant new features will soon roll out on the Govt.nz app, Digitising Government and Public Service Minister Judith Collins says.

“The Govt.nz App will provide New Zealanders with easy access to government digital services such as communications and proof of digital identity,” Ms Collins says.

“By the end of this month, users will be able to see their digital wallet in the app. This will allow people to store and present accredited digital credentials issued by government or the private sector.

“At the same time, the Government Credential Issuance Platform will go live, allowing all government agencies to issue digital credentials directly into the wallet. This all-of-government solution will reduce duplication and ensure better value for money.

“Hospitality New Zealand is working with the Department of Internal Affairs to be the first accredited digital credential available in the wallet, pending changes to the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act.

“This digital credential could be used by customers to present their Kiwi Access Card on their phone at a bar or event entrance, so staff can confirm age eligibility quickly and securely without handling a physical card.

“By July 2026, secure messaging will also be available in the app, allowing New Zealanders to receive communications directly from government agencies on things like vehicle registration reminders or travel advisories.

“These new features will give New Zealanders more choice in how they access government services through an app that is robust, secure, and widely usable.

“Use of the Govt.nz app will be entirely voluntary, and existing channels will remain available.”

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Stu1

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#3472056 20-Mar-2026 17:15

freitasm:

Press release:

Significant new features will soon roll out on the Govt.nz app, Digitising Government and Public Service Minister Judith Collins says.

“The Govt.nz App will provide New Zealanders with easy access to government digital services such as communications and proof of digital identity,” Ms Collins says.

“By the end of this month, users will be able to see their digital wallet in the app. This will allow people to store and present accredited digital credentials issued by government or the private sector.

“At the same time, the Government Credential Issuance Platform will go live, allowing all government agencies to issue digital credentials directly into the wallet. This all-of-government solution will reduce duplication and ensure better value for money.

“Hospitality New Zealand is working with the Department of Internal Affairs to be the first accredited digital credential available in the wallet, pending changes to the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act.

“This digital credential could be used by customers to present their Kiwi Access Card on their phone at a bar or event entrance, so staff can confirm age eligibility quickly and securely without handling a physical card.

“By July 2026, secure messaging will also be available in the app, allowing New Zealanders to receive communications directly from government agencies on things like vehicle registration reminders or travel advisories.

“These new features will give New Zealanders more choice in how they access government services through an app that is robust, secure, and widely usable.

“Use of the Govt.nz app will be entirely voluntary, and existing channels will remain available.”

If it’s Realme for authentication , no thanks

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