New Zealand’s Public Service Commissioner, Peter Hughes has announced his retirement, affective 29 February next year.
He said he was leaving at that time to give the incoming Government an opportunity to start its term with fresh leadership at the head of the Public Service.
“It has been the privilege of my life to serve as Public Service Commissioner,” Mr Hughes (pictured) said.
“I personally thank every Public Servant who has chosen public service as their career. I truly believe it is a noble thing to choose to serve your country and your fellow citizens. Every single Public Servant has my respect and my gratitude.”
Mr Hughes is retiring after 43 years in the Public Service. His term as Commissioner was due to end on 3 July 2024 and he will have served seven years and seven months of his eight-year term when he leaves in February.
He has applied the same notice period of six months to his term as applies to Public Service Chief Executives.
Mr Hughes, who turned 65 in May, said he remained committed to the role of Public Service Commissioner right up until the end of his term.
“The Public Service has an important role to play through the election period and formation of the next Government and I am absolutely committed to leading that effort,” he said.
The Public Service Commissioner is appointed by the Governor-General on the recommendation of the Prime Minister. A process for appointing a new Public Service Commissioner will be decided by the Prime Minister following next month’s General Election.
Wellington, 8 September 2023
