NEW-ZEALAND PUBLIC-SECTOR MANAGEMENT REFORM - IMPLICATIONS FOR THE UNITED-STATES

This article describes the reforms to the functions of central governm ent in New Zealand that have been introduced since 1985. It sketches t he political and economic situation which motivated the changes to the systems of public management. Some of the theoretical influences that provided insights to the advice given to the government by its offici als are noted. The essential elements of the system are described brie fly. The results are summarized in terms of how the ideas were impleme nted, the extent of their acceptance, the impact on managerial behavio r and the effects on government in terms of the objectives that were o riginally set out. Some tentative suggestions are made regarding the m essages that might be drawn from the New Zealand experience that are r elevant to the reforms of the government of the United States.