Machinery of Government
An introductory course into Aotearoa New Zealand’s Government and the wider workings of the public and state sector environment.
In Partnership with FrankCapability.
In-Person
20 Aug 2026 | Wellington (Pipitea)
06 Nov 2026 | Wellington (Pipitea)
Can’t make these dates or want a private course?
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.
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
- Introduction and guided tour of Parliament
- What is the state in Aotearoa New Zealand?
- The legislature, the executive, and the judiciary
- The public sector, the state sector, and the public service
- Central elements of the ‘Westminster model’ including variations brought about by recent changes
- The machinery of central government
- The change to MMP: implications for state sector officials
- Current issues and challenges in organising the state sector
- Ethics and ethos in the state services
- Concluding thoughts and wrap-up
Further Information
Format
This course is delivered as a full-day in-person workshop at our Wellington venue. It includes tour of parliament (290m walk), mix of facilitator-led sessions, small-group exercises, and whole-group discussion. Group size is limited to 16 participants to ensure meaningful interaction and personal feedback. Morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea are provided to support networking and collaboration.
What You'll Receive
You will receive a digital certificate of attendance and a Wellington Uni-Professional digital badge. These include the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) hours completed, making them suitable for recognition by professional organisations and employers.
Upcoming Courses & Delivery Options
20 Aug 2026 | Wellington (Pipitea)
Duration: 1 day, 9am–4.30pm
$NZD 995
excl. GST
Can’t make these dates or want a private course?
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