According to the Labour market Report 2007, New Zealand experienced an increase of 0.2% with the creation of 4,700 new jobs.

Indicative of continuing skill shortages 42% of employers stated difficulties in attracting staff. Of the total reported cases 50% indicated pay increases over the past 12 months to retain staff.

Behavioral research in the workplace revealed growing staff commitment, sense of purpose and overall trust in the employing organisation. In spite of such positive attitude comparative data with competing economies reveal lagging productivity in the New Zealand workforce.

A study undertaken at Harvard University points to “workplaces that foster inter-personal trust and quality personal relationships creating the most committed and productive employees”.

If this is the case, there must be something missing in the personality mix and behaviour patterns of Kiwis to achieve more productive outcomes. Maybe it requires more research at source to pinpoint the cause and solution that still escapes us.