Podcast: Hope is not a strategy: What a more dangerous world means for New Zealand

Dr Oliver Hartwich
John Howard
Podcast
19 February, 2026

In this episode, Oliver Hartwich speaks with retired Major General John Howard, whose 40-year military career included a senior executive role at the US Defense Intelligence Agency.

Howard explains New Zealand is strategically underprepared for a more contested world, lacking clear national security and intelligence strategies, modern capability and sustained investment to protect a trading nation's interests.

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