Work stoppages dropped to a record low last year, the government says.

Labour Minister Kate Wilkinson has released statistics showing there were just 12 stoppages during 2011 compared with more than 200 in 1986 when reporting began, and it was the lowest annual figure since then.

Ms Wilkinson says it's an indication of the state of industrial relations in New Zealand.

"While there have been some high-profile disputes in recent months, what these figures show is that overall there is a positive trend with less disruption and fewer disputes," she said.

"I believe this demonstrates a growing sophistication in the relationship between employees and employers."

The long-running strikes at Ports of Auckland and Affco will push up this year's figures when they're reported next year.