July 2026 – Dr Oliver Hartwich

As they stand, no

31/07/2026

The RMA replacement Bills require further refinement despite containing some improvements. While they aim to streamline planning and reduce council blockages, essential protections for property rights and housing affordability may need to be added before the final vote.

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New Zealand ignores the Kiwi who saw the future coming

30/07/2026

The evolution of technology, particularly AI, raises questions about the future of work, education, and human cognition in society.

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Using Orbán tactics to purge opponents is wrong way to clean up Hungary

28/07/2026

The Venice Commission, established for constitutional aid, faces challenges as Hungary’s Tisza party swiftly amends democracy rules post-Orbán, raising concerns over electoral legitimacy and future governance.

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The revolving door at the end of the Pacific

24/07/2026

New Zealand has high foreign-born residency and emigration rates. It offers social stability and satisfaction but faces economic challenges like low wages and housing affordability. Policy changes could retain more residents.

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Australia’s economic future is on display in NZ’s present

24/07/2026

The comparison of Australia and New Zealand highlights their parallel reform histories, economic similarities, and diverging outcomes, with Australia benefiting from natural resources while New Zealand struggles post-reforms.

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World map showing continents filled with numbers and digits against a starry background

Australian workers produce in 39 minutes what a New Zealand worker produces in an hour. We need to do better.

23/07/2026

New Zealand’s road toll has fallen significantly since 1973, yet it still ranks poorly internationally. The nation excels in societal metrics but lags in productivity, risking its economic standing.

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World map with countries labeled by GDP, population, and economic growth statistics including charts and graphs

New Zealand by Comparison

22/07/2026

The Initiative’s latest report evaluates its performance against 28 countries, ranking high in social metrics but low in economic productivity, signaling the need for reforms to enhance economic value.

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the word jackpot spelled out in scrabble letters

Everyone is a winner with TOP

17/07/2026

The Opportunity Party’s radical tax proposal offers a ‘Citizen’s Income’ funded by land tax, seemingly benefiting most while raising questions about its financial viability and fairness.

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Drowning in €3.5 trillion of debt, France faces a new revolution

14/07/2026

On France’s national holiday, commemorations for the Nice terror attack overshadow traditional celebrations. Economic challenges threaten the Republic, raising uncertainty for the 2027 presidential election and candidate Marine Le Pen’s future.

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military ship in bosphorus istanbul daytime

Foreword to ‘Adrift – A Trading Nation, an Ageing Navy and the 2027 Frigate Decision’