How would you describe the New Zealand identity?
As we are such geographically isolated and young country, I’d describe us as free and unique. Free of the issues that large population creates, and unique due to the multicultural identity that has evolved.
What will be our next major challenge?
Maintaining that unique identity while staying connected to the global marketplace and improving our economic performance.
What do we need to do to prepare ourselves for this?
One way we can hold on to our national identity is through strong local media. That’s partly why we’ve launched Freeview – to ensure access to New Zealand media telling New Zealand stories. Secondly, we must maintain world-class education system to nurture and grow talented people who want to strive for the best. And thirdly, we must create an environment that encourages success and innovation so that graduates of this system want to live and work in this unique place.
Beyond survival
Management Commercial
July 21, 2026
After a punishing economic cycle Kiwi businesses are emerging into something of a stabilisation period. Cautiously optimistic, past the worst, but with operating costs still biting and reinvestment held back. Why the next six months will define the recovery, and what business owners need to be doing in that period.
