National Efficiency Board

Definition

The National Efficiency Board was a New Zealand government body established in 1909 to address concerns about the country's economic competitiveness and productivity. It aimed to promote efficiency in various sectors, notably in agriculture and manufacturing, as a response to the rising tide of nationalism and the desire for greater self-governance, emphasizing the need for modernization and economic independence.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The National Efficiency Board was established during a period when New Zealand faced increased competition from other countries, particularly in agriculture.
2. The board's work highlighted the relationship between economic efficiency and national identity, linking productivity improvements with the idea of self-reliance.
3. It encouraged technological advancements and modern farming techniques to enhance productivity, thereby fostering a sense of pride in national capabilities.
4. The board's findings influenced government policies that aimed to boost economic performance while also addressing social issues, like labor rights and education.
5. Ultimately, the National Efficiency Board contributed to the framework of policies that laid the groundwork for New Zealand's future economic strategies and its movement towards full self-governance.

Review Questions

• How did the establishment of the National Efficiency Board reflect New Zealand's growing sense of nationalism?
  • The establishment of the National Efficiency Board reflected New Zealand's growing nationalism by emphasizing the importance of economic independence and competitiveness. As New Zealand sought to assert itself on the global stage, the board aimed to improve productivity in agriculture and manufacturing. This focus on efficiency not only aimed to bolster the economy but also fostered a national identity tied to self-sufficiency and modernization, reinforcing the belief that New Zealand could stand independently from colonial influences.
• What were some key recommendations made by the National Efficiency Board, and how did they shape government policy during this period?
  • The National Efficiency Board made several key recommendations aimed at improving productivity through technological advancement and better farming practices. These included investing in agricultural research, promoting modern farming techniques, and encouraging cooperative structures among farmers. The board's influence shaped government policies by leading to increased funding for agricultural education and initiatives that supported farmers, ultimately aiming to boost New Zealand's economic standing and align it with national aspirations for self-governance.
• Evaluate the long-term impacts of the National Efficiency Board on New Zealand's economic development and national identity in relation to self-governance.
  • The long-term impacts of the National Efficiency Board on New Zealand's economic development were significant, as its emphasis on efficiency led to sustained growth in agricultural productivity and industrial capabilities. This focus contributed to an evolving national identity centered around self-reliance and innovation. As New Zealand transitioned towards full self-governance, the groundwork laid by the board ensured that economic policies were aligned with national interests. This period marked a shift where economic decisions were increasingly made with a view toward fostering a distinct New Zealand identity separate from colonial influences, ultimately shaping its modern economic landscape.

Related terms

Progressive Party: A political party in New Zealand formed in 1891 that advocated for social reform and modernization, reflecting the growing nationalism and self-governance sentiments of the time.

Economic Nationalism: An ideology promoting domestic industries and economic independence, often linked to broader nationalist movements, as seen in New Zealand during the early 20th century.

Social Reform: Efforts aimed at improving society through changes in policies, laws, and practices, which were prevalent in New Zealand's push towards self-governance and greater national identity.