2025 New Zealand Economics Forum
Proudly hosted by Waikato Management School at the University of Waikato, the forum is back for its fifth year.
13 & 14 February 2025 - University of Waikato, Hamilton
#NZEF2025
Unconstrained thinking for constrained times
The New Zealand Economics Forum (NZEF) has established itself as an unmissable event in the calendar for policymakers and business leaders.
This year’s theme is '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 – all of which draw on resources – while also examining emerging technologies in genetic engineering and artificial intelligence, and navigating a complex geopolitical landscape. It is a challenging environment with multiple trade-offs.
Proudly hosted by Waikato Management School, the two-day forum will bring together leading economists, business and community leaders, and public sector officials to discuss the most pressing economic issues facing New Zealand, to share insights that will help challenge and inform us.
Keynote Speakers
Hon. Nicola Willis - Minister of Finance
From senior roles at Fonterra and as an advisor to former PM John Key, Hon. Nicola Willis, Deputy Leader of the National Party, has a diverse portfolio which includes Finance, Public Service, Social Investment and Climate Change.
Hon. Scott Morrison - Former Prime Minister of Australia
Serving as Australia’s 30th Prime Minister from 2018 to 2022, Mr. Morrison navigated the nation through major challenges. Now a prominent thought leader in public policy and economic strategy, he brings a wealth of experience and insight.
Sir Brian Roche (KNZM) - Public Service Commissioner
From senior roles at Fonterra and as an advisor to former PM John Key, Hon. Nicola Willis, Deputy Leader of the National Party, has a diverse portfolio which includes Finance, Public Service, Social Investment and Climate Change.
Iain Rennie (CNZM) - Secretary and CEO - Treasury
Iain Rennie has extensive experience in economic policy and public service leadership. Former State Services Commissioner, he has advised governments internationally and held key Treasury roles since 1986.
Event details
| Item | Details |
| Forum dates | Thurs 13 February 8.30-5.00pm and Fri 14 February 7.00am-1.00pm* |
| Tickets | $450 (ex GST) |
| Forum dinner | Thursday 6.30pm* - $95 (ex GST) |
| Venue | The Pā, The University of Waikato, Hamilton |
*Times subject to change
Seats are strictly limited
Schedule and speakers
Highlights of NZEF 2024
Watch the 2024 forum highlights featuring keynote speakers Adrian Orr (Reserve Bank Governor) and Finance Minister Nicola Willis.
Past speakers include Helen Clark, Jim Bolger, Sir Bill English, Grant Robertson, and ASB Bank CEO Vittoria Shortt.
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.