The New Zealand government has released new guidance on the responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) in the public service, emphasizing transparency, accountability, and ethical governance. The “Responsible AI Guidance for the Public Service: GenAI,” published in February 2025, aims to provide agencies with a structured approach to safely integrating AI while mitigating risks such as misinformation, security vulnerabilities, and algorithmic bias.
This updated guidance builds on the “Interim Generative AI Guidance for the Public Service,” first published in 2023, and aligns with New Zealand’s broader AI governance efforts. Developed under the Government Chief Digital Officer, it is part of a larger initiative to standardize AI governance across government agencies. The document outlines best practices for procurement, risk management, human oversight, and fairness in AI applications.
The guidance stresses the importance of human oversight, ensuring AI systems remain tools for decision-making rather than autonomous entities dictating policies. Public service agencies are encouraged to publish records of their AI usage to maintain transparency and public trust. The framework also promotes adherence to the OECD AI Principles, reinforcing democratic values, privacy protection, and inclusivity.
One of the key focus areas is mitigating the risks of AI-generated misinformation. The guidance warns that generative AI can produce “hallucinations” or fabricated outputs that appear credible but lack factual basis. To address this, agencies are advised to verify AI-generated content through trusted sources and to maintain strict data governance policies. The guidance also acknowledges security threats, urging agencies to implement strict access controls and avoid exposing sensitive government data to external AI models.
Additionally, the guidance highlights AI’s potential to improve government services, including streamlining administrative tasks, enhancing public engagement, and modernizing legacy systems. It advocates for responsible procurement practices, urging agencies to conduct thorough risk assessments when acquiring AI tools and to work with vendors that adhere to ethical AI development standards.
The government has also committed to ongoing updates to the framework, ensuring it evolves alongside advancements in AI technology. Agencies are encouraged to collaborate within an AI community of practice to share knowledge and refine governance strategies. By implementing these guidelines, New Zealand aims to balance innovation with public accountability, positioning itself as a global leader in ethical AI governance.
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