New Zealanders value a government that is open, and accountable. There are practical ways to see these qualities translated into concrete policies and actions.

Last month TINZ published “Promises to Policy to Action”, our urgent call for invigorating New Zealand’s healthy democracy and sent an email to party presidents and secretaries. So far, only the TOP party has responded. Stopping the flow of illicit money is one of the areas where concrete action is called for.

The independent Electoral Review panel has just released its interim report which is available for consultation until 17 July 2023. We strongly encourage our members and supporters to give feedback to the panel on any recommendation in the report.

Lobbying plays an important role in the development of policy and is important to a democracy. But it must be open, transparent and regulated. A Code of Conduct is suggested.

TINZ presents “Promises to Policy to Action”, our urgent call for invigorating New Zealand’s healthy democracy. We offer concrete actions within the broad areas of: 1.) Stopping flows of dirty money within and in/out of New Zealand; 2.) Strengthening political Integrity, enhance democracy and national security; 3.) Protecting public resources and securing integrity in the public and private sectors.

The announcement by the Prime Minister of potential regulation of lobbyists and other matters is welcome news to those who advocate for political integrity. Now we need to turn it into effective legislation.