New Zealand’s public servants get a big high-five from Kiwis

New Zealanders say they trust the public service more than ever, and the union for public servants says members are happy to hear that after a sometimes difficult year.

The latest Kiwis Count Survey has been released by Te Kawa Mataaho, the Public Service Commission. It reveals that 69% of New Zealanders trust the public service, a major increase from 51% the previous year and the highest result since the survey began in 2007.

Citizens place well-deserved faith in public servants

“New Zealand’s public servants deserve to feel proud. They are the least corrupt and most resilient government workforce on the planet, and their fellow citizens place well-deserved faith in them,” said Kerry Davies, National Secretary of the Public Service Association (PSA).

“You learn who your friends are during a crisis, and 2020 taught us all how much we rely on well-funded, well-organised public and community services.

“The people of New Zealand have been protected from the pandemic by border workers, health workers and so many other public servants all over this country.” Davies stated.

Survey has consistently shown high approval levels

The Kiwis Count Survey has consistently revealed very high levels of public approval for their interactions with local councils and government agencies.

“Whether applying for a passport, filing a personal tax return or visiting the public library, New Zealanders are overwhelmingly satisfied with the service they receive,” Davies noted.

“Public servants are sometimes unfairly attacked by unscrupulous employers or cynical politicians, so it’s great to see a vote of confidence from the people who really matter. New Zealanders do not want their public services cut or their public assets privatised. They trust their public servants to get on with the job and help this country thrive.”

Likely their role in Covid-19 has contributed to approval

The country’s Public Service Commissioner, Peter Hughes, said it’s likely the public service’s role in responding to Covid-19 had contributed to the spike in trust and confidence in the service as a whole.

“This result is a tribute to the hard work and integrity of public servants who deliver vital services to New Zealanders every day,” Hughes stated.

“We can always do better. The challenge now is to maintain our excellent reputation and we will continue to work hard to do that.”