Who we are
On this page
Our story
We are the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), Hīkina Whakatutuki. Hīkina means to uplift and Whakatutuki means to move forward, to make successful. To Grow Aotearoa New Zealand for All, we put people at the heart of our mahi.
Our work touches on the daily lives of New Zealanders. We grow opportunities (Puāwai), guard and protect (Kaihāpai) and innovate and navigate towards a better future (Auaha). We are service providers, policy makers, investors and regulators.
Based on the principles of te Tiriti o Waitangi/the Treaty of Waitangi, we are committed to upholding authentic partnerships with Māori. We engage with diverse communities, businesses and regions. As agile public service leaders, we use our breadth and experience to navigate the ever changing world.
Our funding
We receive $1.3 billion to deliver services and functions on behalf of the Government.
We administer $5.6 billion in non-departmental activities on behalf of the Crown.
Our people
We have over 6,500 people in 40+ offices across Aotearoa New Zealand and abroad. About 65% of our people work in operations and service delivery, providing core services to New Zealanders.
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Our whakapapa
MBIE was formed in 2012 by uniting 4 agencies:
- Department of Building and Housing
- Department of Labour
- Ministry of Economic Development
- Ministry of Science and Innovation.
A number of core functions and responsibilities have their origins in government agencies established in the 19th century.
Over the years, we have taken on new functions and roles, such as Kānoa – Regional Economic Development and Investment Unit and multiple economic development funds, as well as Managed Isolation and Quarantine in support of the COVID-19 response. As a ministry, we continue to adapt and change to the needs of Aotearoa New Zealand.
Our values and strategy
Our way of working and our behaviour is guided by our values and strategy, Te Ara Amiorangi.
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How people engage with us
New Zealanders engage with MBIE in a number of ways to get the services they need. Some of the services we provide include:
- Consumer Protection
- Employment New Zealand
- Trading Standards
- New Zealand Immigration
- Tenancy Services
- Temporary Accommodation Service