Ministry for Regulation website
Delivering a High-Quality, Accessible Website for the Ministry for Regulation
The Ministry for Regulation (MfR) required a permanent website to replace their temporary online presence—one that would be fully accessible, intuitive to navigate, and easy to manage. As a newly established government agency, MfR needed a site that met strict accessibility, security, and usability standards while providing a seamless user experience.
Somar Digital worked with MfR to deliver a modern, scalable, and user-friendly website, built using our Somar Digital Accelerator—a powerful website starter kit designed for efficiency, cost savings, and high performance. This allowed MfR to launch a robust, future-proof platform quickly without compromising on quality.
The Somar Digital Accelerator Advantage
Somar Digital leveraged its Accelerator service, which provides a curated collection of reusable Silverstripe CMS components. This cost-effective, high-value solution enabled MfR to:
- Launch Faster: Pre-built components reduced development time while maintaining high quality.
- Lower Costs: Provides a low cost of entry for a top quality web CMS platform. offers a high-value solution without breaking the bank.
- Future-Proof Their Website: Scalable and flexible architecture ensures long-term value.
A Fully Accessible and Responsive Website
As a New Zealand Government website, the Ministry for Regulation's site needed to meet strict accessibility and usability standards to ensure equitable access for all users. Compliance with Web Accessibility Standard 1.1 and Web Usability Standard 1.2, along with adherence to WCAG 2.1 AA guidelines, was a core requirement.
The site was designed to be fully responsive, providing a consistent and user-friendly experience across desktops, tablets, and mobile devices. This ensures that all users, including those with disabilities, can easily access important regulatory information and services.
Intuitive Navigation and User-Centric Design
Modern UI/UX Design: The site features an intuitive and engaging user interface, ensuring effortless navigation for both the public and MfR team members.
Optimised Information Architecture (IA): The structure was carefully designed to provide a logical flow of information, helping users find key resources efficiently.
Responsive Design: The website adapts fluidly across mobile, tablet, and desktop devices for an optimal user experience.
Empowering the Ministry for Regulation with a Flexible CMS
Silverstripe CMS: A user-friendly, scalable content management system allowing MfR to manage content independently.
Multi-Language Support: Capability to add and manage content in te reo Māori and other languages.
Comprehensive CMS Training: Hands-on training sessions enabled MfR’s team to confidently manage updates and workflows.
SEO & Analytics for Data-Driven Decision Making
Integrated Analytics: The site is equipped with Google Analytics and Looker Studio dashboards to provide actionable insights into user engagement and behaviour.
Search Engine Optimisation (SEO): Strategic keyword implementation and technical enhancements boost search visibility and help MfR reach the right audience.
Security and Compliance at the Core
Independent Security Audits: Third-party penetration testing ensures best-practice security and protects user data.
Compliance with NZ Government Standards: The site meets stringent security, privacy, and accessibility requirements set by New Zealand’s government agencies.
Key Outcomes
Kickstarter Solution
Built on a reusable, secure, and scalable Silverstripe CMS foundation, ensuring long-term flexibility and ease of content management. The platform allows MfR to efficiently expand and evolve their website while maintaining high security and performance standards.
Accessibility & Compliance:
Independently audited to meet WCAG 2.1 AA standards, ensuring a fully accessible experience for all users, including those with disabilities. The site also adheres to NZ Government usability and security standards, reinforcing trust and inclusivity.
Faster Delivery & Cost Savings:
Leveraging the Somar Digital Accelerator enabled rapid development and deployment without compromising on quality. The pre-built components and streamlined workflow resulted in significant time and cost efficiencies, allowing MfR to launch a high-performing site on budget.
Custom Design & Strong UX:
A unique website design tailored to MfR’s brand identity and audience needs, featuring an intuitive user experience, well-structured information architecture, and responsive design. The result is a seamless and engaging experience across all devices.
Ongoing Support & Maintenance:
Beyond the initial launch, MfR benefits from continuous improvements and security updates through Somar Digital’s dedicated support team. Regular optimisations, performance monitoring, and content management assistance ensure the site remains secure, user-friendly, and aligned with evolving needs.