Diversity and inclusion

Equal employment opportunities are critical to creating a workplace where employees can reach their full potential. Creating a culture where diversity is valued and people can thrive ensures that the Office can do its best work.

The principles of equal employment opportunities are embedded in our people policies and practice. We provide equality of opportunity throughout the employee life-cycle.

Employee-led networks

Employee-led networks in the New Zealand public sector help employees to connect, share ideas, and support each other in reaching their potential.

We have four employee-led networks:

• a Pasifika Network;
• a Rainbow Network; 
• Te Ao Māori Champions Network; and 
• a Women’s Network.

Pasifika Network

The Pasifika Network's purpose is to enable a sustainable Pasifika identity, culture, and capability within the organisation, with the aim of delivering meaningful outcomes for Pasifika staff, the organisation, and key stakeholders.

The focus is on driving internal change and a shift towards inclusivity and sensitivity toward Pasifika issues locally and abroad.

Rainbow Network

The Network's purpose is to:

• increase the visibility of rainbow diversity in the organisation;
• make people feel safe to bring their whole selves to work;
• provide support and collegiality for members of our community working in the office, as well as forming stronger relationships with allies;
• hold social events in the office and participate in external events; and
• provide feedback on proposed policies, initiatives, and business plan proposals to ensure that the views and experience of diverse members of staff are included.

Te Ao Māori Champions Network

The purpose of the Network is to provide a forum where people can connect with each other, learn from each other, share ideas, and influence the development of the Office's te ao Māori strategy.

The Network also provides a space for people to raise questions and have discussions that will help them build their knowledge and understanding of our te ao Māori strategy and what it seeks to achieve, and te ao Māori in general.

Women's Network

The Women’s Network was set up to:

• create a sustainable cross-office network;
• increase confidence in our wāhine toa through shared experiences and advice in a supportive and safe space; 
• further embrace diversity and inclusion within the workplace through influencing organisational policy and practices, with a particular lens on women’s interests.

Page updated: 3 April 2025