Germany – Dr Oliver Hartwich

An assault on representative democracy

The Waka Jumping Bill is more reminiscent of early 20th century Germany than suited to 21st century New Zealand. It would be an aberration of New Zealand’s democratic tradition if it were passed into law. [...]

Accidental success is not a strategy

If David Seymour follows his own instincts, his party would easily be more appealing than a party relying on protest votes. [...]

MMP for beginners

If New Zealand wants to run under MMP, get used to its machinations. And if that is too Machiavellian for your taste, return to first-past-the-post. [...]

The never-ending story of Angela Merkel

Angela Merkel is the illusory giant of Europe. Just don’t get too close to her. [...]

Time for a New Zealand first

Over the next parliamentary term, many tough nuts need to be cracked, chief among them the overhaul of our planning laws. What better way to go about such seminal reforms than with a large majority? [...]

Germany may hold the key to solving New Zealand’s housing woes

The reason why Germany got more built is because there was greater political will to do so. And there are better incentives for towns and cities to deliver the housing that their citizens need. [...]

Of mice, men and constitutions

To make my own position perfectly clear: I am fundamentally ambivalent about whether New Zealand would be better off with a written constitution. [...]