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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

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

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

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