New Zealand Cricket is committed to ensuring all cricketers receive the very highest standard of helmet protection, whether batting or fielding (in specific positions).
To this end, NZC has adopted a formal position on helmet safety which is largely in line with similar policies implemented in England & Australia. This position recognises a key distinction between the Amateur and Professional cricketer.
For the Amateur cricketer (junior and senior) it is preferable, and strongly recommended, that they wear a helmet which meets the new British Standard (BS7928:2013). For the Professional cricketer, this is now mandatory
Full Policy available here.
In summary…
Contracted and Professional Players – First-class, List A, T20 and A Squad – BS 7928 : 2013 Compliant Helmets are mandatory
Amateur cricket – New Zealand Cricket strongly recommend all senior cricketers wear a helmet with a face guard while playing and during practice sessions when batting, keeping (within 5 metres of the stumps) or fielding in close (with 7 metres of the stumps, excluding behind the wicket on the off-side).