Former central banker slams Adrian Orr's 'dancing with forest fairies'

Former central banker slams Adrian Orr's 'dancing with forest fairies'
Former central banker Geof Mortlock said RBNZ should focus on core responsibilities. (Image: ICNZ)
Jenny Ruth
Reserve Bank governor Adrian Orr is performing an increasingly political role, risking the credibility of the central bank and hurting rather than helping the New Zealand economy, according to former central banker Geof Mortlock.In an open letter to finance minister Grant Robertson and RBNZ chair Neil Quigley, Mortlock particularly takes issue with Orr’s “favourite theme of portraying the RBNZ as the Tāne Mahuta of the financial landscape”.Mortlock, who spent 24 years at RBNZ through to 2007 and five years at the Australian Pr...

More Finance

BNZ looks to economic uptick supporting its full year 2026 outturn
Finance

BNZ looks to economic uptick supporting its full year 2026 outturn

BNZ is the latest bank to cautiously spruik GDP growth in 2026.

Andy Macdonald 07 Nov 2025
BNZ profit dips as economic return proves sluggish
Finance

BNZ profit dips as economic return proves sluggish

Net-interest margin tiptoes higher but total operating income slips. 

Andy Macdonald 06 Nov 2025
NZ's financial stability risks higher than in recent years
Finance

NZ's financial stability risks higher than in recent years

The RBNZ says global uncertainty and underperformance are key factors.

Staff reporters 05 Nov 2025
Trade Me parent company appoints Owen Wilson as director
Finance

Trade Me parent company appoints Owen Wilson as director

Wilson was CE of $A30b Australian digital-property company Rea Group Ltd.

Staff reporters 04 Nov 2025