New Zealand – Dr Oliver Hartwich

You could fix so much that’s wrong in NZ. So why choose a welfare system that works?

The New Zealand government has picked the one part of the New Zealand economy that does not require a big reform for its biggest legacy project: the welfare state. [...]

Blurring boundaries: how Jacinda Ardern challenges journalism’s ethics

The government offered money conditional on media giving up on the very principles that differentiate journalism from public relations. [...]

Wanted: A plan for real change

Whoever produces the better roadmap will win next year’s election. [...]

Voodoo economics guide NZ workplace relations

person welding wearing a prootective metal mask

While Australia has now started the process of reforming its broken employment relations system, New Zealand has started to break its working one. [...]

AI’s potential to polarise society

In a world increasingly shaped by AI, the value of our own intelligence and education does not diminish. Instead, the returns on human capital could well increase because of the presence of AI. [...]

The curious Dr Wilkinson

We are lucky to have Bryce at the Initiative. As he celebrates his special day, we wish him many more years of economic curiosity. [...]

Lightweight Cameron the wrong role model for NZ’s National party

If New Zealand’s opposition politicians want to prepare themselves for the brutal and thankless tasks that lie ahead, David Cameron’s memoirs won’t help. In fact, they will lead them astray. [...]

System in freefall: why NZ children face education tragedy

Young New Zealanders have been let down by an education establishment which, over decades, has run a once world-leading education system into the ground. [...]

Focus on price stability

We need central banks globally to refocus on their core task: price stability. [...]

No trivial pursuit

close up of a book over white background

At the very least, schools should teach students how to read, write and calculate. Our children are wasting their potential if we do not equip them with these skills. [...]