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Machinery of Government

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An introductory course into Aotearoa New Zealand’s Government and the wider workings of the public and state sector environment.

19 Aug 2025
20 Oct 2025
Next date
Delivery
In-Person
Location
Wellington
Duration
1 day
CPD/PLD Hours
7.5

Course overview

This course helps you understand the government environment, structure and processes, as well as the political context within which the state sector operates.

This highly interactive one-day work shop is delivered in a seminar style along with small group discussions. Reading material and supporting notes are provided.

This course also includes a guided tour of Aotearoa New Zealand’s Parliament.

Facilitated by

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Derek Gill

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Cathy Scott

In partnership with

three course participants listening

What you'll learn

  • Identify the key features of Aotearoa New Zealand’s governmental and political system, especially the elements that are most relevant to those working in public sector organisations
  • Discuss the roles, responsibilities and linkages between the public sector and cabinet, parliament and its select committees, and the judiciary
  • Provide an overview of how the machinery of government works
  • Examine legislation and codes of conduct that govern the work and behaviour of Aotearoa New Zealand state servants

Course modules

  1. Introduction and guided tour of Parliament
  2. What is the state in Aotearoa New Zealand?
  3. The legislature, the executive, and the judiciary
  4. The public sector, the state sector, and the public service
  5. Central elements of the ‘Westminster model’ including variations brought about by recent changes
  6. The machinery of central government
  7. The change to MMP: implications for state sector officials
  8. Current issues and challenges in organising the state sector
  9. Ethics and ethos in the state services
  10. Concluding thoughts and wrap-up

Further Information

Format

The course will be run as a seminar with full opportunity for engagement by all participants. Reading material along with supporting notes are provided. During the day course members may be invited to carry out small-group discussions of some topics and issues.

Here's what others are saying

“This was a great introductory course for those new to the public service – clear, free and frank advice to set you up for a career with government departments.”

“A clear, succinct explanation about the way our government system works, with real life, useful examples delivered by experienced tutors.”

“This workshop provided a good overview of the workings of Government in New Zealand – very useful if you a new to working in the public service.”

Upcoming Courses & Delivery Options

19 Aug 2025 | Wellington

Duration: 1 day

$895

excl. GST

20 Oct 2025 | Wellington

Duration: 1 day

$895

excl. GST

Can’t make these dates or want a private course?

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