The Australian
NZ shows how not to run a census
New Zealand planned to replace traditional censuses with record-based data but faced legislative obstacles, leading to a mandatory census in 2028. […]
Moscow wins east German elections
Newsroom
The recent Saxony-Anhalt election in Germany dramatically showcased political upheaval, with the far-right AfD nearing a majority, while traditional parties like CDU faced significant losses, complicating governance. […]
Birds of a feather
Insights
Voting for Forest & Bird’s ‘Bird of the Year’ opens today, featuring a unique election-themed twist and various bird parties with playful, clever campaigns reflecting New Zealand’s political landscape. […]
The Australian
NZ can reach orbit but can’t reach a decision
New Zealand’s military capability is limited, yet it excels in the space industry through Rocket Lab. The government’s inconsistent support hampers success, leaving future defence policies uncertain.
The New Zealand Herald
Town planners will finally have to answer for land prices
New Zealand’s recent planning law represents a significant shift, introducing an independent watchdog to monitor land prices and ensuring housing affordability, supported by a rare cross-party consensus for lasting impact.
Quadrant
The New Mandarinate
New Zealand’s immigration biometric project, initiated in 2018, wasted millions due to poor oversight and misleading advice from officials, raising concerns about bureaucratic accountability and governance challenges.
Insights
Balancing the books is only half the job
Both major parties in New Zealand promise budget surpluses and fiscal consolidation but need to address institutional reform for economic growth and competitiveness.
The New Zealand Herald
Why Labour’s capital gains tax policy is flawed
At a panel discussion on capital gains taxes in Wellington, speakers largely criticised Labour’s proposal, highlighting its flaws such as lack of inflation adjustment and excessive exemptions, while agreeing on the need for better tax design.
Newsroom
Spurred by heat from Trump, Iceland votes on reopening frozen EU talks
Iceland is reconsidering its EU membership following the 2008 crisis and global tensions, with a referendum set to determine whether to resume EU talks, despite mixed public sentiment.