Update addresses appointments, workplace culture, respectful behaviour
With new standards tackling merit-based appointments, the updated Code of Conduct for the Public Sector will come into effect on 30 March 2026, with the Standards of Integrity and Conduct continuing to apply until then.
“New Zealanders expect the people that serve them to act with the highest integrity, accountability and professionalism,” said Judith Collins, public service minister, in a news release. “The new Code of Conduct for the Public Sector resets those expectations and provides clear guidance to public servants.”
The government explained that the updated Code includes new standards addressing workplace culture, respectful behaviour, and other significant findings from last year’s public service census.
The government added that the new Code aims to reflect public service values, add to the expectations currently in place regarding the conduct of public service workers, and promote integrity across the public sector.
“Integrity requires strong leadership, sound judgement, and workplace cultures where people feel safe to speak up and do what is right – especially when no one is watching,” Collins said in the news release.
She shared that the Public Service Commission intends to require training on the updated Code and General Election Guidance. She added that the training will clarify how public servants should act before, during, and after an election.
The government noted that the Leadership Development Centre will make integrity learning resources available in March 2026, when the new Code comes into force.
“We’re fixing the basics so New Zealanders have a system that is not only effective, but exemplary – one that consistently serves the public interest and appropriately uses the powers entrusted to it,” Collins said in the government’s news release.
On its website, the Public Service Commission explained that many public sector organisations likewise abide by their own codes of conduct, which align with the updated Code of Conduct for the Public Sector but apply to their respective organisational contexts.
The commission noted that distinct codes of conduct govern ministerial staff, Crown entity board members, and companies falling within the Directors of Public Finance Act 1989, Schedule 4A.
According to information on the commission’s website, in 2007, the government issued the Standards of Integrity and Conduct, soon to be replaced. The commission clarified that many of the predecessor’s minimum standards will remain relevant under the updated Code.
On its website, the commission listed the following values applicable to the public sector:
The commission then identified the following principles:
