The Practice of Human Resource Management in New Zealand: Strategic and Best Practice?

Abstract

This article examines the extent to which strategic HRM and HR best practice are followed in New Zealand organizations. As part of an international project, a survey was sent to all organizations with at least 50 employees. The results reveal that New Zealand employers are not much different from those around the world: a strategic approach to HR is at best moderate and best practices are only patchily applied, although there are a few areas of strength. Larger organizations are more likely to have strategies in place and to follow best practice. In general, much improvement is needed. The article concludes with a discussion on why organizations do not develop HR strategies or adhere to HR best practices.