New Zealand Economics Forum

Time for Courage: Building New Zealand’s Tiger Economy. 11 and 12 February 2027.

iStock 1263364897

The 2027 New Zealand Economics Forum, Time for Courage: Building New Zealand’s Tiger Economy, will challenge us to think confidently and ambitiously about New Zealand’s economic future - exploring what it will take to drive growth, embrace the reforms ahead, and make the courageous choices needed to unlock our nation’s full potential.

Watch playlists from previous years

NZEF THUR Morning 9
(opens in a new tab)

For 2026 the theme was 'Big choice for a small nation'. At a pivotal time for New Zealand, with a general election ahead, the choices we make now will shape our nation’s trajectory for years to come.

2025nzef
(opens in a new tab)

In 2025 the theme was 'Unconstrained thinking for constrained times'. Families, businesses and the Government are struggling with constraints on spending. At the same time, we face important long-term questions in areas such as education, health and infrastructure.

2024nzef
(opens in a new tab)

The theme for the 2024 forum was 'A Briefing to the Incoming Government'. Our expert speakers discussed how we can respond to the headwinds of a growing and ageing population, adapt to climate change, and the need for significant investment in health, housing and infrastructure.

7806 WMS exterior building pictures

Waikato Management School

Waikato Management School is in the top 1% of business schools globally, boasting Triple Crown accreditation since 2005 for excellence in business education.

Our scholars are ranked in the top 3% globally for economics research over the last 10 years.