In Transparency International's Corruption Perceptions Index released on 5 December 2012, New Zealand was again named as having the lowest perceived levels of public sector corruption out of 176 countries and territories, helped by strong public access to information and rules governing the behaviour of those in public positions. It is the seventh year in a row that New Zealand has topped the index.  This year New Zealand was named in joint first place with Denmark and Finland.

Internal Affairs Minister Chris Tremain has announced that from Friday 2 November New Zealanders will pay less for their adult passport and be able to renew their passports online.

This year is the 50th edition of the United Nations Handbook. New Zealand is proud to have produced the handbook since 1961 as a symbol of our longstanding and practical commitment to the United Nations.

The handbook is a comprehensive guide to the United Nations system and how it works. It summarises all United Nations organisations and provides essential information about their aims, structures, and membership.

There have recently been anti-Japanese demonstrations in several cities across China. These protests have primarily focussed on Japanese diplomatic missions and targeted Japanese businesses. New Zealanders are not considered at direct risk but are advised to avoid all demonstrations and any areas of unrest.