Auckland DHB’s Updated ‘Values’ Not Worth $170,000

Auckland DHB’s Updated ‘Values’ Not Worth $170,000

The Auckland DHB’s decision to spend over $170,000 on a new set of ‘values’ is a classic case of bureaucratic self-indulgence, says Jordan Williams, Executive Director of the Taxpayers’ Union.

The Taxpayers’ Union revealed the expense with an Official Information Act request and understands the change in ‘values’ was initiated by the new CEO, Ailsa Claire, in an effort to ‘make her mark’.

A ‘values week’ entailed 17 workshops and 750 hours of staff time. A London business consultant was even flown in – twice – to provide expertise.

The ADHB’s former values of ‘Integrity, Respect, Innovation, Effectiveness’ were replaced with ‘Welcome – haere mai, Respect – manaaki, Together – tūhono and Aim High – angamua.’

“Where's the value for money in the DHB spending $170,000 to replace the value of ‘effectiveness’ with merely ‘aiming high’?” asks Mr Williams.

“The Taxpayers’ Union is happy to offer the ADHB some alternative values, except our suggestions are free of charge. How about ‘Sticking to our knitting’, or ‘Not flying in a London consultant to legitimise our waffle-fest when sick people are literally relying on DHB resources for survival’.”

“Or even just ‘Transparency’, considering they’ve ignored media inquiries on the topic.”

The Auckland DHB's response to the Taxpayers' Union's request for official information on request.

ENDS

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