In 1870, British Prime Minister William Gladstone up-ended Britain’s civil service. Instead of officials being appointed by politicians following changes of government, Gladstone’s reforms introduced a permanent, politically independent public service. Read more
Oliver Hartwich interviews Mark Honeybone, the founder and owner of Property Ventures, about the raft of new regulations affecting the housing market. If you would like to listen to our latest podcasts, please subscribe to The New Zealand Initiative podcast on iTunes, Spotify or The Podcast App. Read more
When the government set a binding cap on New Zealand’s net emissions through the Emissions Trading Scheme, it also set a second cap – on prices. The hope was that that second cap would not really be needed, but it looks like it might become relevant rather sooner than anyone expected. Read more
We all wish Helen Clark a long life. At the same time, that prospect makes us nervous. Read more
Last year’s cannabis referendum failed by a 51% to 49% margin. Drug reform advocates have since suggested decriminalising drug possession as alternative. Read more
Treasury’s report this week on long term fiscal position does not make easy reading. Based on historical trends, the analysis shows government spending will consume 43% of GDP, up from 33% currently, by 2061. Read more
Matt Burgess talks to Eric Crampton about the fiscal risks of a rapidly rising ETS price. If you would like to listen to our latest podcasts, please subscribe to The New Zealand Initiative podcast on iTunes, Spotify or The Podcast App. Read more
Matt Burgess talks to Oliver Hartwich about his latest Herald column about the new political role central banks play. If you would like to listen to our latest podcasts, please subscribe to The New Zealand Initiative podcast on iTunes, Spotify or The Podcast App. Read more
The government faces increasing debt levels if it does not get the cost of an aging population under control. Eric Crampton talks to Wallace Chapman on Radio NZ - The Panel about Treasury's projections and whether the superannuation age should be raised. Read more
By the end of the year, all going well, everyone in New Zealand who wants to be vaccinated against Covid-19 will be vaccinated against Covid-19. All of the developed world barring Australia is rolling out vaccination more quickly than New Zealand. Read more
Once upon a time, central bankers did not tweet. And not just because there was no Twitter. Read more
Senior fellow David Law discusses changes to Kiwisaver with Oliver Hartwich. If you would like to listen to our latest podcasts, please subscribe to The New Zealand Initiative podcast on iTunes, Spotify or The Podcast App. Read more
Oliver Hartwich talks about voting and decision making with Lynn Freeman on Radio NZ Smart Talk at the Wanaka 2021 Festival of Color.
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In recent months there have been a few changes to KiwiSaver with more under consideration. But those who are inclined to tinker with the scheme should be looking at the evidence on its efficacy and thinking about whether any changes are consistent with its objective – to help those with a savings problem save more for their retirement. Read more
Senior economist Matt Burgess discusses New Zealand’s agricultural emissions. If you would like to listen to our latest podcasts, please subscribe to The New Zealand Initiative podcast on iTunes, Spotify or The Podcast App. Read more