Rogernomics: The transformation of New Zealand’s establishment

Image: Regina Kuhne

Summarised by Centrist

Political commentator Bryce Edwards details how forty years ago, in 1984, David Lange’s Fourth Labour Government and Roger Douglas ushered in a period of radical economic reform known as Rogernomics. 

According to Edwards, Rogernomics replaced one set of vested interests with another, creating a new elite class, with many sectors dominated by oligopolies and potential for corruption.

Before 1984, New Zealand’s economy was inefficient, dominated by state-favoured monopolies, and mired in low productivity. 

Douglas, influenced by neoliberal economist Friedrich Hayek, sought to liberalise the economy, which led to a stock market boom and eventual crash in 1987. 

This crash had long-lasting effects, driving many New Zealanders to invest in property rather than stocks.

Edwards notes how the privatisation of state assets during this period created a new class of wealthy business people. The influence of money in politics became more pronounced, with business leaders playing a larger role in funding Labour’s electoral campaigns and benefiting from subsequent policies.

The era also marked a shift in political communication. 

Edwards writes: “Previously, publicity staff were simply seconded from the Tourist and Publicity Department. However, Lange and Douglas were determined to have real spin doctors who would actually sell the policies and personalities of the new government.” 

He cites lobbyist Mike Munro: “‘Messaging, market research, style and image would be getting just as much attention [as policymaking]’”

Read more over at The Democracy Project

Enjoyed this story? Share it around.​

Subscribe
Notify of
guest
4 Comments
Most Voted
Newest Oldest
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments

Read More

NEWS STORIES

Sign up for our free newsletter

Receive curated lists of news links and easy-to-digest summaries from independent, alternative and mainstream media about issues affect New Zealanders.

GRAHAM ADAMS: Trans ‘No Debate’ policy collapses

If you want to attack anyone for what you and a few of your fellow ideological travellers see as doctrinal error, you really shouldn’t make your target the grieving parents of a child who died alone of starvation in a motel room.

GRAHAM ADAMS: Trans ‘No Debate’ policy collapses

If you want to attack anyone for what you and a few of your fellow ideological travellers see as doctrinal error, you really shouldn’t make your target the grieving parents of a child who died alone of starvation in a motel room.

4
0
Would love your thoughts, please comment.x
()
x