Building a more efficient building system, finding solutions to protect the community from high-risk criminal offenders, and leading the way in cat management so biodiversity can thrive – these public policy initiatives demonstrate courage and innovation to create solutions that meet their stakeholders' needs.
Here we take a closer look at the finalists of the inaugural Te Tohu mō te Hiranga o te Mahi Kaupapa Here | Excellence in Public Policy Award at Te Hāpai Hapori | Spirit of Service Awards.
Here Ora: Preventive measures in a reformed law
Te Aka Matua o te Ture | Law Commission’s ‘Here Ora’ presents solutions to one of New Zealand’s most challenging legal issues: protecting the community from high-risk criminal offenders.
The review needed to balance two significant interests – the safety of the community and the rights of people who have already served a sentence for their offending. It makes 149 recommendations for a new statutory regime focused on rehabilitation and reintegration.
Central to the recommendations is the idea that all New Zealanders will benefit from law that better facilitates the restoration of high-risk people to safe and unrestricted life in the community.
It presents a compelling vision for a more humane regime which is more effective at achieving community safety.
Building a more efficient building system
Over the past 18 months, the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment’s Building System Performance branch has driven an ambitious series of reforms to improve the building regulatory system.
These reforms will contribute to the Government’s objectives by simplifying consent processes, reducing building and material costs, and making it easier and more affordable to build in New Zealand.
The branch has taken an innovative approach by exploring new ways of doing things while navigating complex policy challenges and working closely with councils and the building sector.
Key achievements include legislation to support greater use of overseas building products and Cabinet approval for policy changes to streamline building consent requirements.
Leading the way in cat management so biodiversity can thrive
Wellington has made major biodiversity gains in recent decades but roaming cats remain a significant threat with over 32,000 owned, registered cats in the city.
Wellington City Council is leading the way in cat management. As the first council in New Zealand to introduce mandatory microchipping in 2016, WCC has built on this progress with mandatory desexing in its 2024 Animal Bylaw 2024.
Recognising the polarised views on cat regulation, it was essential to engage hearts and minds, work closely with cat owners to understand their concerns, and highlight the benefits for both cats and wildlife.
This evidence-led, inclusive approach balances ownership rights, animal welfare, and biodiversity protection.
About Te Hāpai Hapori | Spirit of Service Awards
Te Hāpai Hapori | Spirit of Service Awards recognise initiatives that deliver great outcomes for New Zealand and New Zealanders. Three categories also recognise exceptional individuals. The winners will be announced on Thursday 4 September.
The awards are made possible thanks to the generous support of our sponsors ANZSOG – The Australia and New Zealand School of Government, DXC Technology Australia and New Zealand, Victoria University of Wellington School of Government, Westpac New Zealand, and Deloitte.
For more information, check out our Spirit of Service Awards page.
