The public service’s growth spurt – where it all went

The public service’s growth spurt – where it all went
MBIE went from fifth largest public service department to third. (Image: NZME)
Jem Traylen
The public service workforce has grown by about a third in the six years to June – roughly spanning the time the outgoing Labour government was in power.In June 2017, there was the full-time equivalent (FTE) of about 47,000 public servants – in the following six years, an additional 16,000, or 34%, were added.There’s been population growth and covid, but those factors alone don’t explain the current size of the public service, which is proportionately bigger than the last time Labour left office, although Labour can fair...

More Policy

LNG imports: Watts open-minded on scale
Policy

LNG imports: Watts open-minded on scale

Energy sector analysts fear a "small, cheap" option will push up the LNG price NZ pays.

Pattrick Smellie 09 Oct 2025
Adrian Orr launches new company as restraint of trade lifts
Economy

Adrian Orr launches new company as restraint of trade lifts

It’s been six months since his exit from the central bank.

Denise McNabb 07 Oct 2025
Auckland’s Milldale housing project approved
Policy

Auckland’s Milldale housing project approved

The project is the third approved since applications opened in February.

Michael Neilson 03 Oct 2025
Govt outlines strategy to deliver Defence Capability Plan
Economy

Govt outlines strategy to deliver Defence Capability Plan

The economy and NZ industry would be beneficiaries.

Staff reporters 03 Oct 2025