In New Zealand, the main “watchdog” over taxpayers’ money is the Auditor- General , through the Office of the Auditor-General. It audits public spending and checks that government money is used as Parliament authorized it.

If you meant a more outspoken taxpayer campaign group, the New Zealand Taxpayers’ Union also describes itself as a watchdog on how tax money is spent.

Who does what

  • Auditor-General : independent officer of Parliament; audits and reports on public spending.
  • Taxpayers’ Union : advocacy group that campaigns on government spending and policy.

Quick answer

If you’re asking about the official public-sector watchdog, it’s the Auditor-General.