The mysterious disappearance of Peter Hughes

The mysterious disappearance of Peter Hughes
Peter Hughes is leaving early, but why is a fresh start needed? (Image: NZME)
Nikitin Sallee
Peter Hughes’s early retirement has political and practical implications that would have been avoided if he served his full term to the middle of next year.This is the sixth in a series of articles exploring the state of NZ’s public service, including the career and legacy of public service commissioner Peter Hughes.Peter Hughes explains the virtue of his early retirement in February as giving the incoming government “an opportunity to start its term with fresh leadership at the head of the public service”.That is a solu...

More Policy

NZ Green Investment Fund unravels after SolarZero collapse
Policy

NZ Green Investment Fund unravels after SolarZero collapse

At its height, the fund managed more than $470m. Now little remains.

Labour’s tax plan by the numbers
Policy

Labour’s tax plan by the numbers

Labour has chosen a small target CGT and a popular health target.

Pattrick Smellie 28 Oct 2025
Labour's CGT: 'the moderates have won'
Economy

Labour's CGT: 'the moderates have won'

A 'first step' policy that may not raise much revenue.

Pattrick Smellie 28 Oct 2025
Online gambling receipts balloon amid efforts to regulate sector
Policy

Online gambling receipts balloon amid efforts to regulate sector

Offshore online gambling providers filed $290.3m of GST receipts in six months to July.

Gregor Thompson 28 Oct 2025