The State Services Commission (SSC) has brought together a number of resources to provide guidance to state servants and agencies in the lead-up to and the period immediately after the General Election on 23 September 2017.

It says that during an election, increased public attention can be expected on the way State servants and State agencies carry out their functions. "The work of government must always be carried out impartially, and in a manner that cannot be perceived as reflecting party interests."

"State servants have the same democratic rights, including the right of free speech, as all other New Zealand citizens. However, State servants need to exercise judgement as to whether, when and how to express their political and personal views," the SSC says.

The guidance identifies common principles and obligations that will assist the State services during the lead-up to, and in the period immediately after, the 2017 general election. The SSC says more information will be added as it becomes available.