Of all the think-tanks operating in New Zealand, one is closer to the current Government than most and it certainly gets more mention in Parliament, though not always positively.
The NZ Initiative is a think-tank based in Wellington and is perhaps the most publicly active in terms of producing research…
Research project from Tokona te Raki , Think Beyond and Truwind Research (June 2025)
Based on Copenhagen Futures Barometer – focus on how New Zealanders are feeling about the future, to think creatively about potential solutions that will positive impact our next generations – data about current views of Nzers and exploring issues of trust, lack of optimism, expectations, polarisation, gender and youth – looking beyond today’s needs to anticipate a world where we all thrive in a truly intergenerational, equitable and just society
Launched in 2020 as a national energy innovation centre, based in Taranaki – Board Chair is Rob Campbell
Focus around short, medium and long-term outcomes:
Projects include:
Parliamentary officer responsible for audits of public spending and performance of government departments, State-owned enterprises, public research organisations, defence force, health agencies, local government and their subsidiary companies, and educational entities – input to Select Committee processes
Extensive archive of reports and investigations – https://oag.parliament.nz/reports
Current and recent work includes:
Independent ecconomic policy research and evidence, data analysis:
Advocacy for businesses, productivity and innovation
Engaging with government and policy processes to ensure business interests are represented – submissions to Select Committees on new legislation – online resources include reports and think pieces on NZ’s services and manufacturing sectors, infrastructure planning, and workplace wellness (with Southern Cross)
Currently being disestablished in the coalition government’s reforms of the science institutes
Callaghan research papers should still be available somewhere in the new system
30 Chambers around the country are membership associations to promote, support and encourage sustainable, profitable business growth
Advocacy, training, advice, information, conferences, submissions to government
Independent Crown Entity with responsibilities for competition, fair trading, consumer credit and economic regulation – ensuring NZ’s markets are competitive, consumers and businesses are informed and their interests protected
Submissions on new legislation and policy
Research areas:
Focus on generating and promoting policy research in NZ – values of inclusion, fairness and sustainability as essential bedrock for a well functioning democracy and for effective public policy – learning from international best practice
Partners: AUT Auckland University of Technology, and WSP NZ
Current research areas:
Previous research areas include:
Independent thinktank established in July 2025 – aim to address economic and political exclusion and develop bold evidence based solutions to move NZ from poverty to prosperity
Max Rashbrooke (VUW) heads research programme:
Advisory Board includes Penny Hulse (former Auckland councillor)
Independent government advisor on infrastructure issues, researching and providing advice on policy to improve planning, prioritisation, investment and delivery – develop national strategies and plans, and manage the National Infrastructure Pipeline
Research areas:
Membership organisation promoting good governance in Aotearoa NZ businesses, not-for-profit organisations, and government entities – advocacy, conferences, training and certification, submissions – links with Chapter Zero climate and sustainability initiatives
Recent research includes – AI, climate risks and opportunities, economic policy, risks for workforce and business resilience, directors’ fees, stakeholder governance
Representative organisation for general insurance companies in NZ
Advocacy for the sector, to build and maintain the trust New Zealanders have in insurance, and to strengthen resilience and reduce the risks of climate change to communities and the economy – submissions to government, presentations, conferences
Information about disaster recovery and the cost of natural disasters
A new initiative being established as a campaigning and research organisation to strengthen NZ democratic institutions through transparency, accountability and policy reform – to shine a light on funding and influence – Bryce Edwards Director
Articles on lobbying, political donations, conflicts of interest
Future-focused think tank tackling the complex, long-term challenges shaping our future – aim to create a cohesive, prosperous and resilient NZ – evolved with leadership of Prof Sir Peter Gluckman, former Chief Science Adviser to the PM, originally at University of Auckland but became independent in 2025
Addressing misinformation and declining public trust in democratic, scientific and societal institutions, and short-term thinking in policy processes – team of 14 staff / researchers
Themes:
Established 2004, originally called the Sustainable Future Institute – focus on foresight, research and policy analysis, exploring NZ’s long-term future through integrated research on social, economic and environmental issues – workshops and advocacy in to government
Funded through the McGuinness Foundation Trust – extensive publications online and research programme:
Charitable trust – purpose of reducing the wealth disparities between people, public interest research and education, and investment in conservation and natural environmental enhancement – philanthropic grants, advocacy, publications
Established in 2012 with support from major NZ businesses – board includes representation from Lion, Colliers, Foodstuffs NZ, Woolworths, Origin Energy, Forsyth Barr, Bell Gully, Genesis, Fletcher Building, Auckland Airport – large team of 20+ staff & researchers – active media presence and advocacy in to government
Promotes pro-free-market principles – research areas:
Independent officer of Parliament with statutory responsibility to provide robust independent advice and investigate environmental sustainability issues and the effectiveness of environmental planning and management by public authorities
Current research areas:
Extensive publications, reports and presentations – ongoing advocacy in to government and local government
Disestablished by the current coalition government in 2024, all the Commission’s inquiry reports, working papers, research papers and seminars are still accessible on the Treasury website
Advocacy and research for electrification of homes, businesses, public infrastructure – energy transition and reducing carbon emissions, improved resilience and efficiency
Active lobbying, media and public speaking
Research includes:
Initiative of Simplicity KiwiSaver aimed at advancing policies for a fairer, more resilient NZ economy
Focus on KiwiSaver, housing, infrastructure and capital markets
Membership organisation connecting businesses, partners and sectors to maximise positive impact for shareholders, communities and the environment
Strategy, advocacy, conferences, presentations, training and career development, submissions on government policy
Publications include annual Better Futures report, Key Trends report, work on climate related disclosures, freight decarbonisation, EV charging strategy, sustainability professionals
Advocacy, collaboration, partnerships, training, events and information to make business in Aotearoa NZ more sustainable
Work on circular economy, integrating nature into your business, climate action planning, designing out waste, regenerating nature, emissions reductions, modular building system, recycled building materials
Global think tank and activator based in Aotearoa NZ, focused on environment and climate – circular economy, smart cities, biodiversity, iwi and community action
Large-scale project GŌ Waitaha – a cross-sector cross-industries transformation project underpinned by a regenerative approach working with multiple stakeholders in industry round tables to identify catalysts for change in the region
An initiative originating in the long-term planning of Ngāi Tahu – using social innovation to achieve equity in education, employment and income for Māori within the Ngāi Tahu takiwā and beyond – creating an iwi-led approach to Māori future-making
Social innovation is the process of developing and deploying effective solutions to challenging and often systemic social and environmental issues in support of social progress
Research includes:
New initiative to get a cross-party position on supplying affordable energy to all NZ – focus on businesses that use natural gas, and not easily able to transition to renewable energy – information via LinkedIn
Independent “think and do” tank working to redesign Aotearoa NZ’s economy around the wellbeing of our communities, the health of our environment, and the inclusiveness of our societies, not just GDP – focus upstream to develop practical long-term solutions for the public good
Reports, webinars, submissions to new legislation and government policy
Strategies:
Posts from the former Chair of the Productivity Commission and BERL economist:
Est. 2003
Representative body of New Zealand dairy manufacturing and exporting companies. Members account for around 98% of milk processed in New Zealand and similar proportion of dairy exports. Executive Director Kimberly Crewther leads advocacy for market access opportunities, food regulatory frameworks, and strengthening New Zealand’s reputation as reliable exporter of safe, sustainable dairy products.
Industry-good organisation representing all New Zealand dairy farmers. Invests farmer levies in research, resource development, and advocacy. In 2022/23 invested $67.25m into programmes supporting profitable and sustainable dairy farming. Subsidiaries include New Zealand Animal Evaluation Limited (NZAEL) and Dairy Training Limited.
Est. 1926 (reconstituted 1968)
Represents owners of New Zealand’s commercial plantation forests. Members own or manage around two-thirds of the country’s 1.79 million hectares of plantation forests, responsible for over 70% of annual harvest. Current CEO Dr David Rhodes, President Matt Wakelin.
Farmer-owned industry organisation representing New Zealand’s sheep and beef farmers. Funded by commodity levies paid on all sheep, beef and dairy cattle processed in New Zealand. Programs include genetics research (B+LNZ Genetics founded 2014), extension services, and advocacy.
Represents sheep and beef processors and exporters operating more than 60 processing plants employing over 25,000 people. Advocates on economic, trade policy, market access, sustainability, employment relations, and regulatory issues. New Zealand’s second largest goods exporter.
Est. 2005 (merger of three federations)
Voice of New Zealand’s 4,500+ commercial fruit and vegetable growers. Industry value reached $7.48 billion in 2023/24. Works with 20 product groups and 30+ local/regional associations. CEO Nadine Tunley leads advocacy for grower interests.
Est. 1886
New Zealand’s largest business association with over 7,000 members. Provides advocacy, expert legal consultation, training and advice. CEO Simon MacKenzie leads organisation championing “kiwi ambition” and commercial success. Partners with BusinessNZ network representing over 76,000 member companies.
Division of BusinessNZ providing support services to manufacturing businesses through nationwide network. Produces BNZ-BusinessNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index (PMI) as monthly indicator of manufacturing sector activity. Offers contract manufacturer directory and health & safety resources.
Represents vehicle manufacturers (OEMs) operating in New Zealand through local official distribution companies. Members import light and heavy vehicles, motorcycles, ATVs and ROVs. Approved by Waka Kotahi to undertake entry certification of imported vehicles.
Represents interests of almost all animal feed manufacturing companies in New Zealand. Manufacturers of compound feeds, premixes and dietary supplements. Operates FeedSafeNZ quality programme introduced 2015, with annual audits by AsureQuality.
Est. 1923
New Zealand’s leading independent conservation organisation with 45 branches, 37 reserves, and 120+ conservation projects. CEO Nicola Toki leads advocacy for land, freshwater, oceans and climate protection. Famous for annual Bird of the Year poll since 2005.
Est. 1974
Campaigns on climate change, nuclear weapons/power, deforestation, genetic engineering, toxics using non-violent direct action. Executive Director Russel Norman leads advocacy. Maintains independence by refusing government, corporate or political party funding. Part of international Greenpeace network.
Est. 1869
Parent body for barristers and solicitors with 13 branch offices. Regulates around 16,000 lawyers through practising certificates and Rules of Conduct and Client Care. Voluntary membership offers services including CPD, library services, and advocacy.
Est. 1879
Represents and empowers legal professionals New Zealand-wide. Organises professional development conferences, employment law events, and networking. Explores emerging issues like AI in justice system.
Est. 2015 (merger)
Formed from merger of New Zealand Institute of Chartered Accountants (NZICA) and Institute of Chartered Accountants in Australia. Represents over 120,000 members globally. NZICA regulatory function continues for New Zealand resident members under NZICA Regulatory Board.
Est. 1987
Peak trade union centre with 28 affiliate members representing 360,000 working people. Largest democratic organisation in New Zealand. President Richard Wagstaff leads advocacy on employment relations, health & safety, pay equity.
Est. 1986
Comprises 76 associations with combined 90,000 members promoting interests of people over 50. Founded in protest against pension surcharge. Lobbies on superannuation, health care, and wider issues affecting older people.
Advocates for older people while providing practical support through accredited visiting service, health promotion, shopping service and elder abuse prevention. Network of local Age Concern organizations throughout New Zealand providing community-based services and advocacy.
Est. 1896
Founded by Kate Sheppard three years after women won the vote. Umbrella organisation with 13 branches and 200+ member organisations working towards gender equality. President Suzanne Manning leads advocacy across political, social and economic sectors. Conducts Gender Attitudes Survey and maintains Gender Dashboard.
Est. 1959
Independent, non-profit consumer advocacy organisation. CEO Jon Duffy leads research, product testing and campaigns on issues like supermarket pricing, flight rights, and scam protection. Published quarterly Consumer magazine. Conducts Sentiment Tracker surveys and “Yeah, Nah Awards” highlighting poor business practices.
Est. 2001
Independent research and public policy think tank promoting “dignity of every person in New Zealand.” Director of Research Kieran Madden leads work on education policy, welfare, character skills, and social issues from conservative perspective. Publishes “Real Issues” weekly commentary and “Flint & Steel” journal.
Est. 2006
Conservative lobby group founded by Bob McCoskrie advocating for traditional family values. Lost charitable status 2022. Produces research reports, media commentary, and electoral guides.
Independent economics and public policy institute working for public good. Executive Director Dr John McDermott leads research helping New Zealand tackle complex social, environmental and economic challenges. Specializes in distributional analysis, intergenerational research, and urban economics.
Based at AUT
Formerly New Zealand Work Research Institute, provides multidisciplinary, inquiry-driven research with social impact. Conducts World Internet Project (New Zealand) and research on Māori and ethnic pay gaps. Hosts symposiums and produces policy-relevant research reports.
Provides independent analysis and insight on key policy issues affecting New Zealand and the world. Produces policy briefings, detailed research reports, and operates Policy Commons for global policy insights. Offers leadership development programs.
Est. 1993
New Zealand’s leading centre for research on strategic and security issues. Director Professor David Capie leads research on Asia-Pacific strategic change, New Zealand foreign/defence policy, Pacific security. Jointly supported by Ministry of Defence, NZDF, and MFAT. Delivers Master of Strategic Studies degree.
New Zealand’s largest independent think tank established 1958. Non-profit incorporated society taking centrist, politically neutral position. Specializes in applied economic research, forecasting, and policy analysis. Famous for Quarterly Predictions and Business Confidence Survey. Staff of 30+ people.
Trade association representing 14 major industrial companies including Fonterra, New Zealand Steel, Rio Tinto NZ Aluminium Smelter. Collectively account for 25-28% of New Zealand’s electricity consumption. Advocates for affordable, reliable electricity supply.
Est. 1972
Represents restaurant and hospitality industry across 12 regional branches. CEO Marisa Bidois leads advocacy for 19,518+ hospitality outlets employing 145,000 people (7th largest employer). Operates education trust and Hospo Start programme.
Membership organisation serving 2,500 members across hospitality and accommodation sectors. President Kristy Phillips leads advocacy and support services. Organises Lion Hospitality New Zealand Awards for Excellence and annual conference/trade show.
Represents property owners, developers, investors and professionals across development, investment, management, planning, design, law and consultancy. Advocates for reduced red tape enabling development and shapes cities where New Zealanders live, work, play and shop.
Est. 100+ years
Membership organisation representing more than 17,000 real estate professionals nationwide. CEO Jen Baird leads advocacy covering residential sales, rural, auctioneering, business brokers, commercial/industrial sales and leasing, residential property management.
Est. 2000 (merger of three organizations)
One of country’s foremost membership organisations representing property professionals. CEO Viv Gurrey leads organization celebrating 25 years in 2025. Includes valuers, property managers, advisors, consultants, residential property managers.
Union for senior salaried doctors and dentists promoting interests in working lives. Works for equitable, accessible public health care system meeting needs of all New Zealanders. Executive Director leads advocacy on professional and employment issues.
Est. 1984
Provides support and advocacy for resident doctors and medical students. Publishes annual collection of ratings and reviews of working conditions in New Zealand’s public hospitals. Advocates against cross-cover outside ordinary hours.
Represents Māori workers within trade union movement alongside Komiti Pasefika and other demographic groups within NZCTU structure.
Est. 1892
Best known builder organisation in the country, membership organisation representing significant part of building and construction industry. Represented regionally throughout New Zealand.
Major business advocacy organisation with Affiliated Industries Group (AIG) comprising 60+ representative groups covering major industries. CEO Katherine Rich leads advocacy on infrastructure, tax, energy, climate change, competition law, skills, employment relations, health & safety.
