At the end of the Cold War, western governments substantially reduced military expenditure. US President Bush and UK Prime Minister Thatcher called it the “peace dividend.” It was not a “dividend” in any normal sense of the term. Read more
“God’s own country” was how our longest-serving Prime Minister, Richard “King Dick” Seddon described New Zealand. The moniker he popularised for his country also proved enduring – even if by the late 20th century, it had become abbreviated to “Godzone.” Yet, as the 2023 general election approaches, New Zealand feels less blessed than it has in the past. Read more
When land prices are wrong, it’s hard for anything to be right. When zoning makes it too hard to build in places where people want to live, land prices will be out of whack. Read more
In a courageous move, the New Zealand Government introduced a bill that would allow 16-year-olds to vote in local elections. Yes, you read that right: 16. Read more
This week, the National Party revealed its tax plans for the election. These are aimed at people with average incomes. Read more
Dr. Oliver Hartwich appeared on Heather du Plessis-Allan's radio show on Newstalk ZB to discuss the government's plan to reduce public service spending.
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Dr. Eric Crampton appeared on The Platform to discuss the IMF's recent report.
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Join us for a thought-provoking conversation between Dr Michael Johnston and Dr Melissa Derby (Ngāti Ranginui), a seasoned expert in education and literacy. Dive into the nuances of literacy in New Zealand, from the ongoing 'Reading Wars' debate to the concept of multi-literacies. Read more
New Zealand was on the brink of an abyss. Its smug and reckless government had burdened the economy with top-down planning, lost control of public finances and created a crisis of confidence in the Kiwi dollar. Read more
It has to be the silliest game of Cluedo going. Who caused the cost of living to blow out? Read more
New Zealand is standing at a historic crossroads. The 2023 election is not just another election; it is a turning point, a watershed moment for our nation’s future. Read more
Join Dr. Oliver Hartwich and Dr. Michael Johnston for a discussion about the key points from The New Zealand Initiative's recent publication, Prescription for Prosperity. The report, which gives policy recommendations for the incoming government after the election, is the culmination of over a decade of research. Read more
One of the key themes that echoes through the 21 areas of public policy we cover in Prescription for Prosperity, is localism. We need to get central bureaucracy out of the way, so that local innovation can thrive. Read more
I’m a fan of prizes for rewarding innovation. Prizes motivate. Read more
As the nation prepares to vote on 14 October, the sentiment across New Zealand is one of frustration and concern. Skyrocketing living costs, unaffordable housing, strained healthcare, and a growing educational gap are the voices of a country looking for change. Read more
