ERMA New Zealand may delegate some decisions on the importation or development of low-risk genetically modified organisms in containment, to institutions engaged in research and development work. These institutions may appoint an Institutional Biological Safety Committee (IBSC), which becomes responsible for making low-risk decisions.
Each IBSC must include at least one Maori member, appointed on the nomination of the hapu or iwi with mana whenua in that locality. Maori members are mandated local iwi representatives who assess potential risks to local iwi from any applications brought before the IBSC.
IBSC decision-making occurs within specific regulations and guidelines, and is regularly audited by ERMA New Zealand to ensure compliance.