Advancements in technology have fundamentally reshaped expectations. New Zealanders now assume government information and services should be easily accessible online, eliminating the need for physical queues or outdated bureaucratic processes. 

 

As search engines and artificial intelligence continue to democratise access to information, individuals are empowered to navigate government services on their own terms. The conventional model of engaging with agencies in isolation no longer aligns with modern needs or expectations. 

 

Kiwis expect fair, consistent, and transparent relationships with government. They expect agencies to work collaboratively, delivering seamless, personalised services that reflect their real-world needs.  

 

To meet these evolving expectations, government must embrace transparency and openness, sharing not just data, but also their rules, decisions, and commitments.  It also necessitates stronger partnerships with community groups, iwi, and third-party organisations, ensuring services are embedded into everyday life through trusted, non-traditional channels.

 

Meanwhile, the growing recognition of Consumer Data Rights challenges the status quo, prompting critical questions: Who controls our data? How is it being used? How is it being shared?

 

Open Government demands a thoughtful and inclusive approach to these issues, engaging agencies and New Zealanders.  However, transparency must not come at the expense of privacy or security; rather, it should be built on a foundation of clear accountability and trust.

 

In this era of Open Government, change is not only necessary - it is inevitable, and we are ready for it.