The Restaurant Association welcomes the government’s new work-from-home guidance for public service especially within Wellington where public servants make up a significant portion of the workforce.
“Since the introduction of flexible working arrangements, we have witnessed a dramatic reduction in foot traffic and revenues, particularly in Wellington CBD where hospitality businesses rely on the daily activity and vibrancy that office workers bring,” said Marisa Bidois CEO of the Restaurant Association.
“The capital city, home to many government departments, has been notably impacted by this shift, as fewer workers in the office equates to reduced demand for cafes, restaurants, and other services that thrive on the bustle of urban life.
“Updated guidance for the public service will make it clear that working from home is not an entitlement and must be agreed and monitored, setting an important precedent for the corporate sector. If we want to see vibrant, thriving city centers, we need to see a balance of more workers back into CBDs, where their presence supports the recovery and growth of local businesses that have been hard-hit by decreased office occupancy.
“While we understand the vital role flexible working plays, we believe there should be a balanced approach. Encouraging a culture where remote working is the default option for the majority of the time undermines the vibrancy of our cities and the health of sectors like hospitality.
“Flexibility is essential in today’s world, but it’s important to regularly review and monitor its impact, as these decisions affect the broader economy. Many of our businesses cite working from home as a key factor contributing to the downturn they’re experiencing.”