The Public Service Commissioner is the Head of the Public Service, responsible for leading a unified, high performing system that delivers better services and outcomes for New Zealand. Their role is central to ensuring an effective, trusted, and future‑ready Public Service.

What the Commissioner does

The Commissioner leads the Public Service to work together as one system, protecting its integrity and strengthening its capability. Under the Public Service Act 2020, key responsibilities include:

  • Leading the Public Service system to improve services and deliver better outcomes for New Zealanders. 
  • Promoting integrity, political neutrality, and good conduct, preserving public trust and confidence. 
  • Appointing and employing Public Service chief executives and overseeing their performance and development. 
  • Building leadership and workforce capability, including senior leadership development and system-wide workforce planning. 
  • Providing system-level advice on the performance, structure, functions and future preparedness of the Public Service. 
  • Conducting inquiries and performance reviews across agencies to support continuous improvement. 

The Commissioner is appointed by the Governor-General on the recommendation of the Prime Minister and is supported by a statutory Deputy Public Service Commissioner. 

A system steward now and for the future

The Commissioner has a statutory duty to provide a 3‑yearly State of the Public Service briefing. The most recent report State of the Public Service Te Kahu Tuatini (2025) highlights the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of the Public Service.

State of the Public Service Te Kahu Tuatini 2025

Why the Commissioner’s role matters

The Commissioner’s leadership helps ensure New Zealanders receive public services that are:

  • Responsive – organised around people and businesses, not agency boundaries. 
  • Modern and accessible – using technology to simplify interactions with government. 
  • Trusted and politically neutral – grounded in integrity, transparency, and accountability. 
  • Ready for the future – anticipating challenges and building a resilient system that can adapt. 

Find out more about the Public Service Commission's leaders: Our leaders