How we buy goods and services
Introduction
Find out about how we buy goods, services and works, how to bid for contracts with DOC and where to find current opportunities.Purchasing terms and conditions
DOC purchases goods and services subject to our standard terms and conditions, unless we agree otherwise.
DOC's purchasing terms and conditions
Supplier code of conduct
This code outlines Government’s expectations of the suppliers we engage. The Government expects its suppliers to meet or exceed the minimum standards set out in this code and to comply with all applicable laws and regulations when doing business with us.
Supplier code of conduct on New Zealand Government Procurement website.
DOC accepts eInvoices
DOC has moved to eInvoicing and can receive eInvoices.
Find out how to send DOC an eInvoice.
Where to find opportunities
Opportunities to tender for DOC contracts are advertised on the Government Electronic Tendering Service (GETS) website.
GETS is a free web-based service which allows you to view and respond to information on current New Zealand government tender opportunities. You can register on the GETS website to see tenders that might be of interest to you.
More information about GETS, how it works and how to register.
Bidding for a contract with DOC
When you bid for a contract with DOC, you will be asked to respond to a tender document (called a Request for Tender/Proposal/Quote or Registration of Interest). The tender document sets out the requirements for the contract, how to submit a tender, how tenders will be evaluated and the terms and conditions of the tender process.
Useful tips
Once you have decided to bid, it is important to:
Carefully read through the tender document again. Check that you have received and read through any additional information – often the documents will have attachments such as the draft contract, maps, drawings or other supplementary information.
Pay attention to the instructions at the beginning of the tender document, which explain how to submit and format your tender. These instructions will tell you:
- when you need to submit your tender by
- how to submit the tender
- requirements for soft (electronic) and hard copies
- requirements for how tenders should be formatted
- who to contact if you have a question
- information about site visits or briefings
- when the contract is expected to be awarded.
Make sure you understand the tender evaluation process (this will always be described in the tender document). The weightings of the evaluation criteria will tell you which questions are most important and will need more time spent answering them.
There may also be ‘Mandatory criteria’. These are essential requirements for the contract, for example attending a site visit or having a certain level of insurance cover. Respondents must be able to meet these for their tender to be considered. Make sure you can meet any mandatory requirements and include evidence to back up your claim if necessary.
Answer all of the questions in the tender document and provide all of the information asked for. If you are required to complete a Response Form, answer all questions in the format provided. Don’t assume anything.
Even if you have worked for DOC before, we rely on the information you provide in the documents, so spell out your experience, skills and capabilities.
Make sure your tender is received on time and at the correct address, with the correct number of copies.
Always ask for feedback. Whether successful or unsuccessful, this will help you with your next tender.
Characteristics of a good tender
- Free of significant errors and / or omissions.
- Tailored to the exact requirements of the contract.
- Detailed with supporting evidence and additional documentation clearly referenced.
- States what benefits you can bring to DOC.
- Demonstrates commitment to DOC.
- Shows you have put theory into practice.
- Clearly written and legible (typed is best).
- Clearly committed to continuous improvement and best practice.
- Submitted on time, in line with the instructions and presented in the correct format.