The New Zealand Herald – Dr Oliver Hartwich

ACC measuring wrong figure when it comes to getting people back to work

25/06/2026

The Accident Compensation Corporation aims to support recovery from injuries, but recent practices reflect a focus on numbers rather than actual recovery. Many individuals still struggle after payments cease, raising serious concerns about the system’s integrity.

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Splitting power generators from their retail arms would not cut electricity bills

16/04/2026

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.

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black leather office rolling chairs beside brown wooden table

Who runs the country? No board would tolerate this

09/04/2026

New Zealand’s government system, where chief executives are appointed by an independent commissioner without ministerial input, hinders effective governance and lacks accountability, unlike practices in other democracies.

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Why the Government must resist fuel tax cuts

12/03/2026

New Zealand, after years of stagnation, faced renewed hope, but the Middle East war sparked inflation and economic challenges. The government must address the real issues without misguided financial interventions.

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Greyhound racing law change is legal overreach

11/12/2025

The New Zealand Government’s bill to ban greyhound racing raises concerns about arbitrary power and lacks compensation provisions, undermining the rule of law and civil society rights.

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The tax problem New Zealand cannot seem to solve

04/12/2025

New Zealand’s tax collection faces ongoing issues with tax debt write-offs. There are strategies from Germany and Australia to hold directors accountable and ensure fairness.

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Eden Park concert limits show how rules block growth

25/09/2025

New Zealand struggles with stagnation due to indecisive governance and reliance on clichés. Real change requires bold decision-making to prioritize progress over appeasing all interests, fostering growth.

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The missing piece in New Zealand’s growth puzzle

14/05/2025

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon emphasises economic growth as a priority, yet New Zealand faces sluggish performance. Reducing government size would enhance reforms and productivity, fostering prosperity.

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Acute threat to New Zealand as Donald Trump’s tariffs threaten globalisation

13/03/2025

President Trump’s announcement of reciprocal tariffs signals a significant shift away from globalization, threatening New Zealand’s economy by potentially damaging its vital export industries and trade relationships.

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empty shopping cart on yellow background

The curious case of competition law and Foodstuffs

08/08/2024

The New Zealand grocery sector is facing regulatory scrutiny as Foodstuffs seeks to unify its operations. But does competition law really make much sense in dynamic markets?

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