Media Release
8 April 2013
Nominations up for public sector excellence awards

Nominations for the 2013 IPANZ Gen-i Public Sector Excellence Awards have reached an all-time high, the Institute of Public Administration New Zealand (IPANZ) announced today.

“Over 80 nominations have been received covering eight categories (compared to 70 in 2012),” says IPANZ President John Larkindale.

Held jointly between IPANZ and Gen-i, the annual Awards recognise and reward outstanding
achievements of the New Zealand public sector.

“It’s critical for New Zealand’s economic success that we have an effective public service,” Mr Larkindale says.

The award categories span Crown-Maori relationships, communications, leadership, providing better public services for less, joint agency programmes, a new professional of the year, networked government, and (a new category for 2013) integrity and trust. In addition, one of the category winners will be presented with the Prime Minister’s Award for Public Sector Excellence.

“At a time when the Government is asking the public sector to provide more for less, these awards recognise the extraordinary and innovative projects currently underway,” Mr Larkindale says.
“The record number of nominations demonstrates that the sector is achieving excellence, embracing innovative ideas, and demonstrating real leadership.”

Entries have been sent in by central government departments, local government organisations, Crown entities (including district health boards), State-owned enterprises and tertiary education institutions throughout New Zealand.

State Services Minister Dr Jonathan Coleman adds, “It’s pleasing to see such a strong number of entries.

“I believe public servants are rising to the challenge of delivering better public services and that it is also important that we recognise the organisations which have innovative projects that are delivering meaningful results for Kiwis,” according to Dr Coleman.

The judging panel is currently assessing all applications and the winners will be announced at an awards function, to be held in Wellington, on 3 July.

ENDS

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