John R. Martin

John R. Martin, an experienced public servant and IPANZ Fellow, reflects on New Zealand's public service history from 1920 to 1988. He defends the 'old' public service legacy, emphasizing its political neutrality and merit-based careers. He discusses the impact of economic challenges, the expansion of the welfare state, and the complicated dynamics between civil service and reform. Martin highlights the need for strong leadership and the importance of institutional memory while exploring the tensions between responsiveness and professional integrity in governance.