Has strategic policy lost its muscle memory?

Has strategic policy lost its muscle memory?
Can NZ's public service help us find our future? (Image: Getty)
Nikitin Sallee
Long-term insights briefings are now a legal requirement of government departments. But are they starting from behind?This is the fourth in a series of articles exploring the state of NZ’s public service, including the career and legacy of public service commissioner Peter Hughes.  It was a surprising revelation: when it comes to strategic policy thinking, the public service has lost its muscle memory.The insight was from Peter Hughes, the Public Service Commissioner, speaking to a parliamentary select committee hearing last April.&n...

More Policy

Council eyes single buyer for Maungawhau Station super-site
Policy

Council eyes single buyer for Maungawhau Station super-site

The redevelopment site will probably be the biggest in NZ, Wayne Brown said.

Oliver Lewis 26 Sep 2025
Willis, Edmonds offer 'boardroom' bipartisan vibes
Economy

Willis, Edmonds offer 'boardroom' bipartisan vibes

'We are the centre, Labour and National,' said Labour's Barbara Edmonds.

Pattrick Smellie 24 Sep 2025
Fear, panic and a sour mood in the boardroom
Opinion

Dileepa Fonseka: Fear, panic and a sour mood in the boardroom

Strong on the world stage, the PM’s weaknesses at home are hurting him.

Dileepa Fonseka 24 Sep 2025
New Employment Leave Act aims to reduce complexity
Policy

New Employment Leave Act aims to reduce complexity

Cabinet will repeal and replace the Holidays Act 2003 with a new Employment Leave Act that is simpler and easier to understand, said Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden.“The problems with the act have been well canvassed over the years, costing billions in l...

Staff reporters 23 Sep 2025