Procurement principles, rules, policy and ethics

Procurement principles

Government procurement is subject to overarching principles. Anyone involved in State sector procurement must be familiar with the principles and apply them in their daily practice.

• best value for money over whole of life;
• open and effective competition;
• full and fair opportunity for domestic suppliers;
• improving business capabilities, including e-commerce capability;
• recognition of New Zealand's international trade obligations and interests; and
• requiring sustainably produced goods and services wherever possible, having regard to economic, environmental and social impacts over their life cycle.
   

Procurement rules

Public Service departments, New Zealand Police and New Zealand Defence Force are subject to the Mandatory Rules of Procurement for Departments. These Rules set out minimum compulsory requirements for certain types of procurements.

• MED: Mandatory Rules for Procurement by Departments [88 kB PDF]

Procurement policy

• OAG: Procurement Guidance for Public Entities
• MED: Government Procurement in New Zealand – Policy Guide for Purchasers - August 2007
• MED: Guide to Mastering Procurement - Strategic Procurement [1 MB PDF]

Ethics and standards

• OAG: Managing Conflicts of Interest
• SSC: Guidance on gifts, benefits & gratuities
• SSC: Standards of Integrity & Conduct
   

We have also produced a toolkit for agencies which you might find of interest.