A crucial discussion about transforming our local government system. The New Zealand Initiative’s new research reveals why councils struggle to deliver for their communities - and more importantly, how this can be fixed. Read more
To solve a problem, first you have to understand it. Once you understand it, you sometimes realise that it isn’t the same problem you had thought. Read more
In this episode, Michael talks to Travis Brown, a filmmaker who explores how different ideologies can lead to polarisation and dogmatic thinking, drawing from his own experiences in both fundamentalist Christian and leftist circles. The two discuss how growing political division threatens democracy and examine Brown's doco "When in Doubt," which demonstrates how embracing doubt and curiosity can lead to better understanding between people with opposing views, even if they don't ultimately change their minds. Read more
Last week, French Prime Minister Michel Barnier faced parliament defiantly. Despite lacking a majority, he tried to push through controversial reforms using Article 49.3 of the Constitution – a mechanism allowing the government to bypass parliamentary votes. Read more
Wellington (Tuesday, 10 December 2024) - New Zealand’s local government problems stem from a fundamental flaw that can be fixed, research released today reveals. “We have identified the root cause of council dysfunction: mayors and councillors lack the power to deliver what they promise voters. Read more
In this episode, Oliver and Nick discuss the fundamental problems with New Zealand's local government system, particularly how elected officials often lack real power while unelected bureaucrats and chief executives wield excessive influence. Nick's new report "Making Local Government Work" proposes five potential solutions, ranging from implementing a German-style "Super Mayor" model to giving councillors more oversight powers, with some reforms likely achievable under the current Government. Read more
From my native Germany to my adopted home of New Zealand, I have observed a curious phenomenon in modern politics: political leaders who enjoy far greater esteem internationally than they do closer to home. Jacinda Ardern was one such politician. Read more
New Zealand’s local government problems stem from a fundamental flaw that can be fixed, research released today reveals. “We have identified the root cause of council dysfunction: mayors and councillors lack the power to deliver what they promise voters. Read more
1. INTRODUCTION AND SUMMARY 1.1 This submission on the National Infrastructure Plan Discussion Document is made by The New Zealand Initiative (the Initiative), a Wellington-based think tank supported primarily by major New Zealand businesses. Read more
Dr Michael Johnston talks to Sean Plunket on The Platform about Massey University allegedly circulating a banner for staff emails featuring the "2020" logo, which is associated with opposition to David Seymour's Treaty Principles bill. Dr Johnston argues this violates the principle of institutional neutrality and reveals how a university staff member anonymously reported this to the Free Speech Union, though they are still awaiting official confirmation from the university's vice-chancellor. Read more
Most national holidays revolve around either somber reflections or consumerism. It is time for New Zealand to formally recognise the cultural phenomenon that best captures our national spirit: Crate Day. Read more
In this episode, Eric talks to Elizabeth Heeg from the Forest Owners Association about New Zealand's new restrictions on forestry in the Emissions Trading Scheme. They discuss why using ETS controls to address local forestry concerns is problematic, examining implementation challenges and arguing that these issues would be better handled through local land use planning. Read more
At this year's Deloitte Top 200 awards, Dr Oliver Hartwich received the special Judges' Award for his outstanding contributions to public policy and thought leadership in New Zealand. Watch him receive the award in the video below. Read more
The Trends in Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) runs every four years. It measures Year 5 and Year 9 students in different countries on what they have learned in science and mathematics. Read more
Last night, 850 of New Zealand’s business leaders gathered at Auckland’s Viaduct Events Centre for the 35th Deloitte Top 200 Awards. The Awards are New Zealand’s premier celebration of corporate excellence. Read more