The latest Public Service Census results released today will be used to lift performance, improve efficiency and build on solid foundations.
The Public Service Census is a regular survey of New Zealand public servants working in departments, ministries and departmental agencies. The 2025 Census ran from 3-21 March and included questions on productivity, delivery and integrity.
Over 44,000 public servants from 40 agencies shared their feedback and ideas for improving the performance of the public service.
Public Service Commissioner Sir Brian Roche said public servants have provided constructive feedback that will benefit the public service and taxpayers.
“Public servants have given us a lot to reflect on,” says Sir Brian.
“Overall, I am encouraged by the results. We’ve also been given clear signals on where we need to improve. My expectation is that individual public service chief executives will listen to what their staff have said, consider it, and either action it or justify why not.”
The survey identified areas where the public service is performing well, with 87% of public servants feeling they contribute to delivering better outcomes for New Zealanders and 80% believe their work provides value for taxpayers. More than 90% of public servants believe their team has been at least moderately successful achieving objectives in the last 12 months.
Other encouraging results:
- 95% of public servants have a good understanding of what it means to be politically neutral
- 91% say it’s important to them that the agency where they work is open and transparent with the public
- 87% believe their agency is working for the long-term good of New Zealand.
The census also highlights a number of issues public servants believe are hindering high performance:
- inefficient decision making is a problem (75%)
- complicated or unnecessary business processes (73%)
- high work volumes and insufficient staff (82%)
- poor communication between teams (69%)
- low appetite for risk/innovation (68%).
Other results identifying areas for improvement:
- 57% believe senior leaders clearly articulate the direction and priorities for their organisation
- 51% believe suggestions to improve workplace efficiency or productivity are taken seriously and acted on
- 60% of managers say they have support from their agency to manage or improve staff performance that is not meeting expectations.
- While about 80% of public servants felt accepted and valued, and comfortable being themselves at work, 12% said they had experienced harassment or bullying in the past year.
- 70% of public servants felt it was safe to speak up about wrongdoing or inappropriate behaviour, with 15% disagreeing it was safe to speak up.
“Some of these results are very positive and provide a good base upon which we position for the future,” says Sir Brian.
“Like any organisation or business, the public service is always looking for ways to improve.
“The census is about listening to the people who work in the system, whether it be on the frontline or behind the scenes. Their insights are vital to lifting performance, delivery and culture, and it’s important we listen and respond to their feedback.
“Improving how we work isn’t just good for staff – it’s essential for delivering better results for taxpayers and optimising the investment they have made in the system.”
