The public service slims down, but pay rates rose faster than the private sector

The public service slims down, but pay rates rose faster than the private sector
Finance Minister Nicola Willis expects public servant numbers to continue to fall. (Image: NZME)
Jem Traylen
Finance Minister Nicola Willis says the brakes have been put on contractor and consultant spending, while the number of public servants is expected to continue to fall.She was commenting on workforce data for the June year that the Public Service Commission released on Thursday.There has been a $274 million reduction in operational expenditure (Opex) on contractors and consultants by agencies that fall within the scope of its target of reducing the Opex by $400m. Heavy liftingHowever, the core public service departments did most of the heavy li...

More Policy

Auckland housing project withdrawn from fast-track
Policy

Auckland housing project withdrawn from fast-track

The developer plans to lodge a fresh application after draft decline.

First look at NZICC, and SkyCity's hopes for $70m fund
Economy

First look at NZICC, and SkyCity's hopes for $70m fund

SkyCity's COO says a new govt fund should help fill empty hotel rooms across Auckland.

Dileepa Fonseka 15 Sep 2025
Real estate industry wants AML levy exemption
Finance

Real estate industry wants AML levy exemption

The real estate industry is warning an AML levy will drive up costs in the sector.

Michael Neilson 15 Sep 2025
Craigs' sweet spot for golden visa investors
Finance

Craigs' sweet spot for golden visa investors

Billionaires can go solo. For other wealthy investors, there's Craigs' new fund.