New Zealand Initiative unveils 235‑point policy agenda for next government

The New Zealand Initiative released its fourth briefing, Prescription for Prosperity 2026, outlining 235 specific recommendations across 26 policy areas. The document, aimed at the government elected in November, calls for reforms such as easing planning rules to increase housing supply, aligning council revenue with expenditures to unlock infrastructure, and creating a regulatory environment that rewards investment. It also stresses fiscal prudence – returning to surplus, stabilising debt and improving public‑service financing – while noting the need for increased defence spending amid global instability. Executive Director Dr Oliver Hartwich said, “No single recommendation will transform New Zealand. But the cumulative effect of implementing even half of what we propose would be substantial.” The initiative argues that these changes are within the control of any incoming administration and could make New Zealand one of the world’s most prosperous nations.

The think‑tank emphasizes that recent reforms, such as liberalising overseas investment and revising the Resource Management Act, have laid groundwork for further progress. It urges the next government to build on these foundations to achieve higher wages, affordable housing and sustained economic growth.