Reports & Media

Dr Michael Johnston was mentioned by Newstalk ZB in their news segment about the declining number of trainees and apprentices in New Zealand, following his recent report on trades training and improving vocational pathways. Dr Johnston suggested that introducing a graduated training wage as apprentices progress through their training could provide incentives for apprentices, in response to data showing a 12% drop in learners and a 19% decrease in continuing apprentices from previous years. Read more

In this episode, Michael and James discuss institutional neutrality in universities, examining how the Education and Training Act Amendment Bill addresses universities' ability to take official positions on political matters. They analyse Otago University's draft statement on institutional neutrality, exploring the distinction between universities "taking positions" versus "making statements" on controversial issues, and consider how the legislation could be improved to better protect academic freedom. Read more

Dr Eric Crampton talked to Wallace Chapman on RNZ's show The Panel about Treasury's initial decision to ban civil society groups like the New Zealand Initiative from the 2025 budget lockup. Dr Crampton explained how Treasury had reversed their decision following legal threats and media backlash, highlighting the importance of maintaining access for organisations that provide independent analysis of budget announcements. Read more

Newstalk ZB reported that The New Zealand Initiative, along with unions and other think tanks, has been returned to the budget reveal lock-up guest list after Treasury decided to accept a broader range of stakeholders. NZCTU president Richard Wagstaff commented on the importance of this access, stating 'we can't give up on democracy' and noting that attending lock-ups and meeting with ministers is what 'we've done for decades.' Listen below. Read more

Heather Du Plessis-Allan discussed how Finance Minister Nicola Willis excluded several organisations, including The New Zealand Initiative, from the budget lock-up on Newstalk ZB. She expressed disappointment with this decision, noting that the people at the New Zealand Initiative are "incredibly bright" and their scrutiny would benefit the country. Read more

Dr Oliver Hartwich talked to Ryan Bridge on Newstalk ZB about the government's increased capital spending, describing it as "a relatively minor announcement" and "a drop in the government's ocean."

Dr Hartwich also discussed the potential for asset recycling, suggesting the government could sell state-owned companies in the energy sector and its Air New Zealand stake, and noted that the retention of the R&D tax credit provides certainty for businesses already using the scheme. Listen below Read more

John MacDonald on Newstalk ZB discussed the pros and cons of MMP, referencing the Initiative's analysis that proportional representation is a strength while voter understanding is a weakness. The Initiative's research from a 2020 report was cited, which found that fewer than half of voters understand the rules governing how parties gain parliamentary representation. Read more

In this episode, James and Michael discuss how the Education Training Amendment Bill transforms school governance in New Zealand. They examine the bill's shift to make student learning the paramount objective for school boards, new requirements to address truancy through attendance management plans, and enhanced assessment standards to improve educational outcomes. Read more