Why don't hotels in NZ have lamps?

There are a number of factors.

Cost: motels are typically run at a lower budget than hotels, and consequently can't afford nearly all of the fittings that one might expect elsewhere.
Necessity: motels are typically booked for sleeping and eating reasons, and not much else. Lamps are not a productive use of the limited budget.
Security: along with the low need and high cost, the risk of losing or having damage occur through the action of guests isn't worthwhile.
Safety: yes, New Zealand does have a stringent code against risks in the event of an earthquake, and lamps pose both an electrical and a falling object hazard.
Culture: perhaps most importantly, "lamps for the lounge" aren't a thing in New Zealand. A New Zealander will tell you to turn the lights on if you can't see well enough -an additional separate lamp is seen as a waste.

Nij 124

Source: stackoverflow.com