Media release: The New Zealand Initiative think tank releases its 2017 agenda
Wellington (22 July 2015): Social policy, local government funding and education are key areas for public policy think tank The New Zealand Initiative over the next two years. The Initiative released its research programme today which covers the period leading up to the 2017 election.
The think tank’s three primary areas will focus on addressing and overcoming failure in schools, the role and improvement of local government, and improving balance between state and private support for those in need and boosting social outcomes.
The Initiative has also identified other standalone areas for research including earthquake response, controls on the digital economy, interest free student loans, health regulation, immigration and population growth.
“This is our 2017 agenda, and these are issues that we want to see discussed and debated before the next election”, said Dr Oliver Hartwich, Executive Director of the Initiative.
“We want to ask the hard questions in these areas, so we can find innovative policy solutions to keep New Zealand a few steps ahead of the rest.”
The New Zealand Initiative’s Head of Research, Dr Eric Crampton, said the work programme commits the organisation to ambitious projects. It is also an invitation to all New Zealanders who want to see a better, more prosperous country.
“We are transparent about the areas we are researching, and we value the involvement and contributions to our research from all stakeholders” Dr Crampton said.
“We believe the focus areas in our research programme are hugely important to all New Zealanders, and we encourage politicians to discuss these issues with their electorates.”
The research programme is available for download here.
All the Initiative’s prior reports are all available free of charge at www.nzinitiative.org.nz.
ENDS
Dr Oliver Hartwich and Dr Eric Crampton are available for comment.
About The New Zealand Initiative
The New Zealand Initiative is an evidence-based think tank and research institute, which is supported by a membership organisation that counts some of the country’s leading visionaries, business leaders and political thinkers among its ranks.
Our members are committed to developing policies to make New Zealand a better country for all its citizens. We believe all New Zealanders deserve a world-class education system, affordable housing, a healthy environment, sound public finances and a stable currency.
The New Zealand Initiative pursues this goal by participating in public life, and making a contribution to public discussions.
For more information visit www.nzinitiative.org.n