Dr Oliver Hartwich Views from Wellington

Newsroom

Losing sight of the lucky country – why we need a crisis to reform again

A reflection on Australia’s economic transformation since the 1990s, highlighting concerns about current stagnation and the need for reforms amidst political challenges. […]
Insights

The false economy of aged care

A new report highlights New Zealand’s aged care crisis, advocating for better funding, home care, and pricing reforms to prepare for an aging population. […]
The Australian

The day New Zealanders master Mixed Member Proportional, they may break it

New Zealand’s upcoming election features a tight race influenced by its mixed-member proportional system, creating unpredictable outcomes and potential overhangs. […]

Should the government spend less? A debate between a neoliberal and a progressive

Uncategorised

06/10/2026

Max Rashbrooke and Oliver Hartwich debate whether the New Zealand government should increase or decrease spending, discussing economic principles, taxation, and the need for efficient public spending in addressing societal issues. […]

Trump’s diesel squeeze leaves NZ dangerously exposed

Newsroom

06/10/2026

Donald Trump’s administration has ignited tensions with Europe over diesel export bans amid ongoing global fuel challenges, revealing vulnerabilities in international fuel security, notably affecting New Zealand. […]

federal constitutional court building in karlsruhe

National’s proposed Foodstuffs split: would a written constitution better protect property rights?

05/10/2026

Reflections on the implications of New Zealand’s governance without a written constitution, especially the tension between parliamentary sovereignty and the need for judicial checks on state power.

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When the Party Was Home

29/09/2026

Recent polling indicates that One Nation leads the Coalition in Australia, with both traditional parties losing popular support. The article reflects on the decline of established political parties, paralleling similar trends in Germany, Britain, and New Zealand. It highlights changes in political engagement, community ties, and decision-making processes as parties become more transactional and less rooted in social structures. This shift raises questions about the stability and efficacy of contemporary politics.

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Is NZ now saying ‘no’ to foreign investment?

28/09/2026

New Zealand’s political climate is prompting law firms to temper investment advice, as proposed party policies threaten property rights, complicating the investment landscape for foreign clients.

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wooden hand holding a wooden exclamation mark

Why we spoke up

25/09/2026

Business leaders express concern over election rhetoric and proposals threatening property rights, urging politicians to focus on economic stability and support for investment in New Zealand.

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