New Zealand Productivity Commission
The New Zealand Productivity Commission is an independent Crown entity whose purpose is "to provide advice to the Government on improving productivity in a way that is directed to supporting the overall wellbeing of New Zealanders, having regard to a wide range of communities of interest and population groups in New Zealand society.” History The New Zealand Productivity Commission Act, passed in December 2010, created the commission as an independent Crown entity. It was established as a condition of the ACT Party supporting the National Party government on confidence and supply, with Finance Minister Bill English describing it as working "closely with and be closely modelled on" the Australian Productivity Commission. The commission began operating on 1 April 2011. Work programme The Commission exists to provide recommendations on ways to improve productivity and to increase understanding of the issues affecting productivity. Its work considers whether laws, policies, regulations and institutions that affect New Zealand's productivity can be improved. The commission has two principal output areas: inquiries and research. Inquiries – The Government chooses inquiry topics for the commission. The referring ministers must consult with the commission on the terms of reference, which stipulate the length, scope and terms of the