Ministry for Culture and Heritage Announces 80% Reduction in Senior Historian Positions

The Ministry for Culture and Heritage has confirmed a drastic reduction in its senior historian workforce, with plans to cut 80% of these roles as part of a broader restructuring effort aimed at addressing budget constraints following the 2025 Budget announcement. This move is part of a larger proposal to eliminate approximately 26 positions across the ministry, with only one senior historian role being retained and two others temporarily kept on until the end of the school year to ensure the completion of existing educational programs.

A Compromise in the Face of Financial Constraints

In a confidential document shared with staff, Secretary Leauanae Laulu Mac Leauanae acknowledged the strong feedback from employees regarding the importance of heritage content and the unique value of the historian roles. Despite this, the ministry has proceeded with the cuts, citing the need to reduce costs and restructure its operations. Mac Leauanae emphasized the importance of maintaining key outputs such as the Te Ara online encyclopedia and the Dawn Raids history project, which have been granted a partial reprieve from closure.

Concerns Over Cultural Preservation and Public Access

The decision has sparked widespread concern among historians and cultural advocates, with the Public Service Association (PSA) condemning the cuts as “cultural vandalism.” National secretary Fleur Fitzsimons argued that the ministry should be expanding its workforce rather than reducing it, given the importance of preserving New Zealand’s history and heritage. She warned that the Te Ara encyclopedia, which has been a cornerstone of New Zealand’s digital history for over two decades, may no longer be adequately maintained without the expertise of senior historians.

A Shift in Focus and the Path Forward

The ministry has also announced a shift in its operational focus, moving away from content creation and program delivery. While the preferred option is to transfer existing programs or products, the document acknowledges that decommissioning may be a last resort if no alternative is found. The changes are expected to be fully implemented by mid-September, with the ministry aiming to adjust to its new financial reality.

A Reversal on Legal Roles

In a surprising reversal, the decision to cut the solicitor role has been abandoned. This was due to feedback indicating that the legal team would face increasing demands, particularly in relation to the Regulatory Standards Bill. This change underscores the ministry’s ongoing need to balance cost-cutting with the preservation of essential services.

As the ministry moves forward, the challenge remains clear: how to maintain the integrity of New Zealand’s cultural and historical record while operating within significantly reduced financial parameters. The coming months will test the ministry’s ability to navigate this complex landscape without sacrificing the quality of its outputs.