These 21 standards of integrity and conduct provide public servants a shared foundation and a collective commitment to acting with integrity in the Public Sector.
Ngā mātāpono Our values
Ngākau pono | Trustworthy
1. We are honest and professional.
2. We act lawfully and use public power fairly and reasonably.
3. We avoid work and non-work activities that may compromise our ability to do our job.
Whakarangatira | Respectful
4. We recognise and uphold the dignity of every person.
5. We contribute to a positive and safe workplace culture.
6. We act with care and respect, and do not behave in ways that are inappropriate or could harm others.
Ngākau tapatahi | Impartial
7. We act objectively and do not allow our personal beliefs, interests, activities, or relationships to impact our work.
8. We disclose our relevant interests and manage all conflicts of interest appropriately.
9. We never misuse our position for personal gain or to benefit or disadvantage others.
10. We decline gifts or benefits that place us under any actual or perceived obligation or influence.
Whaiwhakaaro | Accountable
11. We are open to scrutiny and can account for what we do.
12. We treat our organisation’s information and resources with care and use them only for proper purposes.
13. We aim to improve the performance and efficiency of our organisation.
Āta whakarongo | Responsive
14. We take the time to listen to and understand people’s circumstances and needs.
15. We aim to collaborate and engage meaningfully with New Zealanders to design policies and deliver services that meet their needs and aspirations.
Ngā pou Our principles
Te noho taiapa | Political neutrality
16. We act in a politically neutral manner, which enables us to effectively serve current and future governments.
17. We respect the authority of the government of the day.
Tohutohu hāngai | Free and frank advice
18. We support our organisation to provide Ministers with timely, robust and unbiased advice.
Kopounga whai-painga | Merit-based appointments
19. We are fair and robust in our recruitment and selection processes and must give preference to the person who is best suited to the position.
Kāwanatanga tuwhera | Open government
20. We aim to make government information, decisions and services transparent, accessible and available.
Kaitiakitanga | Stewardship
21. We manage and care for the Public Sector, so that it may continue to meet the needs of New Zealanders now and into the future.