Insights
They came in peace. We came with clipboards.
The Martian Audit portrays two Martians touring New Zealand, baffled by absurd legalities, ultimately deciding invading Australia would be simpler. […]
Trump’s Iran war is paying for Putin’s
Newsroom
Russia’s economy struggles amidst sanctions and war, but high oil prices, aided by Trump’s actions in Iran, provide a temporary reprieve, stabilising Putin’s regime despite underlying issues. […]
Is the public service really fine?
Insights
The New Zealand public service faces structural issues necessitating reform, as highlighted by a recent report arguing for ministerial appointment of chief executives despite opposing critiques. […]
Quadrant
Nasty, Brutish and Short-Sighted
The post-1945 global order faces decline as major powers disregard rules, risking international chaos reminiscent of Hobbes’ “state of nature” without strong authority.
Insights
The art of the contradiction
President Trump exhibited contradictory statements regarding the Iran conflict, alternating between demands for surrender and regime change while allies hesitated. Meanwhile, New Zealand grapples with rising fuel prices amid ongoing instability.
Newsroom
Trump pushes Pope onto world stage in a devilish intervention
Dealing with hostile political leaders is nothing new for the Catholic church. It has two thousand years of practice, from Herod and Pilate through Napoleon to Stalin and Hitler. An institution that outlasted all of them will probably manage Donald Trump as well.
The Australian
Auckland’s new city deal shifts nothing
New Zealand signed its first city deal with Auckland, promising funding for local projects. However, it lacks real local autonomy and continues centralised control from Wellington, limiting true local governance.
The New Zealand Herald
Splitting power generators from their retail arms would not cut electricity bills
With rising energy prices, New Zealand First proposes splitting electricity companies, but the argument lacks economic merit. Vertical integration helps stabilise prices, making competition effective despite consumer inertia in switching suppliers.
Insights
Government by correspondence
New Zealand’s governance structure limits ministerial authority, making chief executives accountable to a commissioner instead. This system demands reforms, allowing ministers to appoint leaders for improved accountability and effectiveness.