The smart grid and residential electricity use: What we know, what we don’t, and the case for collaborating with academic researchers

You are here > Home / Events / The smart grid and residential electricity use: What we know, what we don’t, and the case for collaborating with academic researchers

The smart grid and residential electricity use: What we know, what we don’t, and the case for collaborating with academic researchers

Thursday, 08 December 2011, 12:30pm to 2:00pm

The smart grid and residential electricity use: What we know, what we don’t, and the case for collaborating with academic researchers.

Prof. David Rapson, University of California, Davis.

Thursday 8th December, 12.30-2.00pm
Old Government House, Women’s Federation room, cnr Waterloo Quadrant & Princes Street Auckland

Download the printable flyer here

Abstract
When it comes to electricity use, people don’t respond to price as much as many might expect. At the same time, behavioral nudges and technological defaults have been shown to produce meaningful demand responses. New technologies that comprise the so-called “Smart Grid” offer several opportunities to leverage these insights into behavioral change. However, translating these insights into policy is fraught with potential pitfalls. In this talk I will discuss how to make the most out of these new technologies (or, more precisely, how to figure out how to make the most of them). I will show why randomized field experiments are invaluable in this setting, and explain why regulators and public utilities stand to benefit immensely from collaborating with academics on research design.

Biography
David Rapson joined the Economics Department at UC Davis in 2008. Professor Rapson specializes in the fields of industrial organization, energy and the environment, with a focus on how to achieve economic efficiency in energy markets. His research includes several collaborative studies with regulated utilities. These include the evaluation of dynamic pricing regimes, carbon offset programs, and the design and analysis of a large-scale randomized field experiment to test the effectiveness of Home Area Network technology (the customer-facing side of the “Smart Grid”). Professor Rapson received his A.B. from Dartmouth College in 1999, an M.A. in economics from Queen’s University, and a Ph.D. in economics from Boston University in 2008.

You are here > Home / Events / The smart grid and residential electricity use: What we know, what we don’t, and the case for collaborating with academic researchers

The smart grid and residential electricity use: What we know, what we don’t, and the case for collaborating with academic researchers

Wednesday, 30 November 2011, 12:29pm to 1:59pm

The smart grid and residential electricity use: What we know, what we don’t, and the case for collaborating with academic researchers.

Prof. David Rapson, University of California, Davis.

Wednesday 30th November, 12.30-2.00pm
Spectrum Theatre, BP House, 20 Customhouse Quay, Wellington

Download the printable flyer here

Abstract
When it comes to electricity use, people don’t respond to price as much as many might expect. At the same time, behavioral nudges and technological defaults have been shown to produce meaningful demand responses. New technologies that comprise the so-called “Smart Grid” offer several opportunities to leverage these insights into behavioral change. However, translating these insights into policy is fraught with potential pitfalls. In this talk I will discuss how to make the most out of these new technologies (or, more precisely, how to figure out how to make the most of them). I will show why randomized field experiments are invaluable in this setting, and explain why regulators and public utilities stand to benefit immensely from collaborating with academics on research design.

Biography
David Rapson joined the Economics Department at UC Davis in 2008. Professor Rapson specializes in the fields of industrial organization, energy and the environment, with a focus on how to achieve economic efficiency in energy markets. His research includes several collaborative studies with regulated utilities. These include the evaluation of dynamic pricing regimes, carbon offset programs, and the design and analysis of a large-scale randomized field experiment to test the effectiveness of Home Area Network technology (the customer-facing side of the “Smart Grid”). Professor Rapson received his A.B. from Dartmouth College in 1999, an M.A. in economics from Queen’s University, and a Ph.D. in economics from Boston University in 2008.

You are here > Home / Events / The economics of climate change - why is it so difficult and controversial? Auckland and Wellington Seminars

The economics of climate change - why is it so difficult and controversial? Auckland and Wellington Seminars

Tuesday, 06 December 2011, 1:30pm to 3:30pm

NZIER, Motu and The Treasury invite you to attend a public lecture by Dr Martin L. Weitzman

The economics of climate change - why is it so difficult and controversial?

You can view a printable flyer here

Economic analysis of what to do about climate change has sometimes been described as an economist’s nightmare. In this lecture, Dr Weitzman tries to explain why this particular application of cost-benefit analysis is more difficult than other, more ordinary, applications - and what it might mean.
The audience should come away with an appreciation for why the economics of climate change is so controversial and why economics is unlikely to come up with crisp sharp answers about what exactly to do about it.

Wellington: Tuesday 6 December, 1.30pm-3.30pm. Intercontinental Hotel, cnr Grey & Featherston St

Auckland: Friday 16 December, 1.30pm-3.30pm. Auckland City Library, Waitemata Room, Level 3

Registration: Closes 28 November. We invite you to register now to secure your place. Spaces are limited.

To attend one of the lectures you must register here. You will receive an email notification when your registration has been confirmed (we will notify you by 30 November).

You are here > Home / Events / The Crisis in the Eurozone: An Irish Perspective

The Crisis in the Eurozone: An Irish Perspective

Tuesday, 18 October 2011, 12:30pm to 2:00pm

The Crisis in the Eurozone: An Irish Perspective

Speaker: Dr Anthony Leddin, University of Limerick, Ireland, and Visiting Fellow, University of Waikato & Prof Brendan Walsh, University College Dublin.

Venue: Old Government House. Corner Princes Street and Waterloo Quadrant, Auckland.

You can download a printable flyer here (160KB).

Abstract
This paper examines the Irish experience in European Monetary Union and extracts some lessons for a small country, such as New Zealand, which may be debating the merits or otherwise of participating in a larger monetary union. The analysis indicates that high relative inflation combined with an exogenous exchange rate and interest rate can significantly undermine the fabric of the underlying economy. Despite favourable leading economic indicators and positive economic appraisal by international institutions, when the economic disintegration finally happens it can be sudden and painful and the remedies extremely prolonged and difficult. The paper looks at the response of the Irish government to the crisis and, in particular, the decision to issue a comprehensive bank guarantee which is now estimated to cost the Irish taxpayer in the region of Euro50 bn and the efforts that have been made to re-establish a shattered banking system. Policy failures at both domestic and EU level are also discussed. The paper concludes by examining if Irish debt is sustainable and the way out of the economic malaise.

Biography
Dr Anthony Leddin, BA, MA, Ph.D recently stepped down as Head, Department of Economics, University of Limerick, Ireland after a six year term. He is currently visiting Senior Fellow at the University of Waikato, New Zealand. His main academic interest is in the area of international monetary economics and macroeconomic policy. He has taught at other universities in Canada (McMaster), Eastern Europe and South Africa. He is a recipient of UL’s Teaching Excellence award and has acted as consultant to the World Bank, Washington. Published books and journal articles include: The Macroeconomy of Ireland (editions 1, 2 3 and 4), Gill and Macmillan and The Macroeconomy of the Eurozone: An Irish Perspective, Gill and Macmillan, 2003 (with Brendan Walsh); Understanding Ireland’s Economic Crisis: Prospects for Recovery, (with Stephen Kinsella), Blackhall Publishing, 2010. The journal article “Ireland in EMU: More Shocks, Less Insulation?” The Economic and Social Review, Vol. 37, No. 2, Summer/Autumn, 2006, was published with the current Governor of the Central Bank of Ireland, Prof Patrick Honohan.

Brendan Walsh studied economics at University College, Dublin, the University of Tennessee, and Boston College, where he received his PhD in 1966. Having taught at the University of Massachusetts and Tufts University, he took up a position at the Economic and Social Research Institute in Dublin in 1969, where he worked until becoming Professor of the National Economics of Ireland at University College Dublin in 1980. He retired from this Chair in 2005.
He published widely in Irish and international journals on macroeconomic topics, including the effects of a currency union on international trade. He served as an adviser to the Irish government during the first half of the 1980s, and has worked with the European Commission, the World Bank, and the Harvard Institute for International Development.
His current research interests include the effects of the Great Recession on mental health and wellbeing.

You are here > Home / Events / Motu Public Policy Seminar: International engagement and performance of New Zealand firms

Motu Public Policy Seminar: International engagement and performance of New Zealand firms

Thursday, 18 August 2011, 12:30pm to 2:00pm

Speaker: Lynda Sanderson, The New Zealand Treasury
Venue: Spectrum Theatre, BP House, 20 Customhouse Quay Wellington

Download a printable flyer here

Abstract
This seminar outlines recent findings from a programme of research on the determinants and consequences of international engagement by New Zealand firms. The research programme is designed to address two central questions: (1) How do characteristics of the firm and the economic environment influence the ability and incentives of New Zealand firms to become internationally engaged? (2) What effect does international engagement have on subsequent firm performance? These questions are addressed using longitudinal firm-level data from Statistics New Zealand’s prototype Longitudinal
Business Database. Specific topics discussed include the role of experience in determining firms’ expansion into new export markets, causal relationships between export market entry and firm performance, and the pre- and post-acquisition performance of New Zealand companies which have been subject to foreign acquisition.

Biography
Lynda Sanderson is a Senior Analyst at the New Zealand Treasury and a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Waikato. Her primary research interest is the microeconomic analysis of firm performance and
behaviour, particularly around the determinants and consequences of international engagement among New Zealand firms. Lynda has an MPhil from the University of Waikato on the ongoing mobility patterns of New Zealand and UK migrants to Australia, undergraduate degrees in Japanese, Economics and Linguistics (Canterbury) and a BCA(Hons) in Economics (Victoria). Prior to joining the Treasury in May 2011, Lynda has worked for the Reserve Bank of New Zealand and the Ministry of Economic Development.

You are here > Home / Events / Motu Public Policy Seminar: International engagement and performance of New Zealand firms

Motu Public Policy Seminar: International engagement and performance of New Zealand firms

Thursday, 11 August 2011, 12:30pm to 2:00pm

Speaker: Lynda Sanderson, The New Zealand Treasury
Venue: Women’s federation room, Old Government House, corner Princes Street and Waterloo Quadrant, Auckland.

Download a printable flyer here

Abstract
This seminar outlines recent findings from a programme of research on the determinants and consequences of international engagement by New Zealand firms. The research programme is designed to address two central questions: (1) How do characteristics of the firm and the economic environment influence the ability and incentives of New Zealand firms to become internationally engaged? (2) What effect does international engagement have on subsequent firm performance? These questions are addressed using longitudinal firm-level data from Statistics New Zealand’s prototype Longitudinal
Business Database. Specific topics discussed include the role of experience in determining firms’ expansion into new export markets, causal relationships between export market entry and firm performance, and the pre- and post-acquisition performance of New Zealand companies which have been subject to foreign acquisition.

Biography
Lynda Sanderson is a Senior Analyst at the New Zealand Treasury and a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Waikato. Her primary research interest is the microeconomic analysis of firm performance and
behaviour, particularly around the determinants and consequences of international engagement among New Zealand firms. Lynda has an MPhil from the University of Waikato on the ongoing mobility patterns of New Zealand and UK migrants to Australia, undergraduate degrees in Japanese, Economics and Linguistics (Canterbury) and a BCA(Hons) in Economics (Victoria). Prior to joining the Treasury in May 2011, Lynda has worked for the Reserve Bank of New Zealand and the Ministry of Economic Development.

You are here > Home / Events / Deepwater Horizon: What happened, why and where do we go from here

Deepwater Horizon: What happened, why and where do we go from here

Wednesday, 01 June 2011, 12:30pm to 2:00pm

Speaker: Dr Frank Alcock, New College of Florida
Venue: Spectrum Theatre - BP House, 20 Customhouse Quay Wellington.

You can download a printable flyer here (183KB).

Abstract
This seminar will review the findings of the National Commission on the BP Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill and Offshore Drilling. Topics discussed will include technical dimensions of the disaster, the regulatory context that allowed it to happen, ecological and economic impacts, report recommendations, and broader implications for offshore drilling activity and U.S. energy policy. Salient themes include a regulatory regime and industry culture poorly suited to manage risks, the absence of meaningful contingency planning, and considerable uncertainty regarding medium to long term impacts and implications. The seminar will also include some reflections upon New Zealand’s plans for offshore oil and gas exploration and development.

Biography
Frank Alcock is an Associate Professor of Political Science at New College of Florida where he serves as the Director of Environmental Studies and teaches courses on world politics, international law, climate change, marine policy and sustainable development. From February through May 2011 Frank will be a Senior Fulbright Scholar based at Victoria University of Wellington. Frank’s Fulbright project involves research and lecturing on New Zealand’s climate policies with an emphasis on the Emissions Trading System. In addition to his work on climate policy, Frank is also lecturing on the Deepwater Horizon spill and its implication for U.S. energy policy. Frank is a former Director of a Marine Policy Institute at Mote Marine Laboratory in Sarasota, FL and a Fellow with the Collins Center for Public Policy in Florida. His work with Mote and the Collins Center has focused on the potential risks and benefits of drilling near the Florida coastline and he testified before the Florida legislature on this topic prior to the spill. Frank holds a Ph.D. in Political Science from Duke University, a M.A. in International Affairs from George Washington University and a B.A. in Economics from Binghamton University. From 2000 to 2003 Frank was a Belfer Fellow at the Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University. Prior to obtaining his Ph.D. Frank spent five years as an international policy analyst/energy economist at the U.S. Department of Energy.

You are here > Home / Events / Deep Water Horizons: What happened, why and where do we go from here?

Deep Water Horizons: What happened, why and where do we go from here?

Thursday, 12 May 2011, 12:30pm to 2:00pm

Speaker: Dr. Frank Alcock, New College of Florida.
Venue: Old Government House, Women’s Federation Room. Corner Princes Street and Waterloo Quadrant Auckland.

You can download a printable flyer here (172KB)

Abstract
This seminar will review the findings of the National Commission on the BP Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill and Offshore Drilling. Topics discussed will include technical dimensions of the disaster, the regulatory context that allowed it to happen, ecological and economic impacts, report recommendations, and broader implications for offshore drilling activity and U.S. energy policy. Salient themes include a regulatory regime and industry culture poorly suited to manage risks, the absence of meaningful contingency planning, and considerable uncertainty regarding medium to long term impacts and implications. The seminar will also include some reflections upon New Zealand’s plans for offshore oil and gas exploration and development.

Biography
Frank Alcock is an Associate Professor of Political Science at New College of Florida where he serves as the Director of Environmental Studies and teaches courses on world politics, international law, climate change, marine policy and sustainable development. From February through May 2011 Frank will be a Senior Fulbright Scholar based at Victoria University of Wellington. Frank’s Fulbright project involves research and lecturing on New Zealand’s climate policies with an emphasis on the Emissions Trading System. In addition to his work on climate policy, Frank is also lecturing on the Deepwater Horizon spill and its implication for U.S. energy policy. Frank is a former Director of a Marine Policy Institute at Mote Marine Laboratory in Sarasota, FL and a Fellow with the Collins Center for Public Policy in Florida. His work with Mote and the Collins Center has focused on the potential risks and benefits of drilling near the Florida coastline and he testified before the Florida legislature on this topic prior to the spill. Frank holds a Ph.D. in Political Science from Duke University, a M.A. in International Affairs from George Washington University and a B.A. in Economics from Binghamton University. From 2000 to 2003 Frank was a Belfer Fellow at the Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University. Prior to obtaining his Ph.D. Frank spent five years as an international policy analyst/energy economist at the U.S. Department of Energy.

You are here > Home / Events / Seminar postponed - Deep Water Horizons: What happened, why and where do we go from here?

Seminar postponed - Deep Water Horizons: What happened, why and where do we go from here?

Thursday, 05 May 2011 to Thursday, 05 May 2011

Seminar postponed until further notice.

Speaker: Dr. Frank Alcock, New College of Florida.
Venue: Old Government House, Women’s Federation Room, cnr Princes St and Waterloo Quay, Auckland.

You can download a printable flyer here (183KB)

Abstract
This seminar will review the findings of the National Commission on the BP Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill and Offshore Drilling. Topics discussed will include technical dimensions of the disaster, the regulatory context that allowed it to happen, ecological and economic impacts, report recommendations, and broader implications for offshore drilling activity and U.S. energy policy. Salient themes include a regulatory regime and industry culture poorly suited to manage risks, the absence of meaningful contingency planning, and considerable uncertainty regarding medium to long term impacts and implications. The seminar will also include some reflections upon New Zealand’s plans for offshore oil and gas exploration and development.

Biography
Frank Alcock is an Associate Professor of Political Science at New College of Florida where he serves as the Director of Environmental Studies and teaches courses on world politics, international law, climate change, marine policy and sustainable development. From February through May 2011 Frank will be a Senior Fulbright Scholar based at Victoria University of Wellington. Frank’s Fulbright project involves research and lecturing on New Zealand’s climate policies with an emphasis on the Emissions Trading System. In addition to his work on climate policy, Frank is also lecturing on the Deepwater Horizon spill and its implication for U.S. energy policy. Frank is a former Director of a Marine Policy Institute at Mote Marine Laboratory in Sarasota, FL and a Fellow with the Collins Center for Public Policy in Florida. His work with Mote and the Collins Center has focused on the potential risks and benefits of drilling near the Florida coastline and he testified before the Florida legislature on this topic prior to the spill. Frank holds a Ph.D. in Political Science from Duke University, a M.A. in International Affairs from George Washington University and a B.A. in Economics from Binghamton University. From 2000 to 2003 Frank was a Belfer Fellow at the Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University. Prior to obtaining his Ph.D. Frank spent five years as an international policy analyst/energy economist at the U.S. Department of Energy.

You are here > Home / Events / Public Policy Seminar - International Diffusion of Ideas

Public Policy Seminar - International Diffusion of Ideas

Wednesday, 23 March 2011, 12:30pm to 2:00pm

Speaker: Isabelle Sin, Stanford University California.
Venue: Spectrum Theatre - BP House, 20 Customhouse Quay Wellington.

You can download a printable flyer here (157KB).

Abstract
Increases in the stock of ideas possessed by societies are central to modern economic growth. The implications of international idea flows are striking: according to one estimate, world production would be just 6% of its current level if countries did not share ideas. This seminar will examine how ideas are driving the modern era’s accelerating growth, the types of ideas that matter for growth, and the central role of idea flows between countries. I will then discuss how ideas diffuse between countries, how economists have measured this diffusion empirically, what we have learned from these studies, and the implications for New Zealand. I will argue, however, that most of the standard measures don’t capture the crucial defining feature of ideas, and will introduce a new measure of idea flows based on book translations. I will discuss the lessons this measure can teach us about the international diffusion of ideas more generally.

Biography
Isabelle Sin is a Ph.D. candidate in Economics at Stanford University, specialising in economic history and applied microeconomics. Isabelle will be joining Motu as a Fellow after she graduates in 2011. Her doctoral thesis proposes a new measure of the international idea flows, namely book translations, and uses it along with modern applied microeconomic research designs to study the factors that affect the international diffusion of ideas. She has also been researching the economics of migration and migrant flows, which shed light on other aspects of the international diffusion of knowledge. Prior to graduate studies, Isabelle received her B.Sc. (Hons) in Economics from the University of Canterbury, and worked at the Reserve Bank of New Zealand and at Motu.

You are here > Home / Events / Public Policy Seminar - International Diffusion of Ideas

Public Policy Seminar - International Diffusion of Ideas

Monday, 21 March 2011, 12:30pm to 2:00pm

Speaker: Isabelle Sin, Stanford University California.
Commentator: Rick Boven, New Zealand Institute

Venue: Old Government House, Women’s Federation Room. Corner Princes Street and Waterloo Quadrant, Auckland.

You can download a printable flyer here (157KB).

Abstract
Increases in the stock of ideas possessed by societies are central to modern economic growth. The implications of international idea flows are striking: according to one estimate, world production would be just 6% of its current level if countries did not share ideas. This seminar will examine how ideas are driving the modern era’s accelerating growth, the types of ideas that matter for growth, and the central role of idea flows between countries. I will then discuss how ideas diffuse between countries, how economists have measured this diffusion empirically, what we have learned from these studies, and the implications for New Zealand. I will argue, however, that most of the standard measures don’t capture the crucial defining feature of ideas, and will introduce a new measure of idea flows based on book translations. I will discuss the lessons this measure can teach us about the international diffusion of ideas more generally.

Biography
Isabelle Sin is a Ph.D. candidate in Economics at Stanford University, specialising in economic history and applied microeconomics. Isabelle will be joining Motu as a Fellow after she graduates in 2011. Her doctoral thesis proposes a new measure of the international idea flows, namely book translations, and uses it along with modern applied microeconomic research designs to study the factors that affect the international diffusion of ideas. She has also been researching the economics of migration and migrant flows, which shed light on other aspects of the international diffusion of knowledge. Prior to graduate studies, Isabelle received her B.Sc. (Hons) in Economics from the University of Canterbury, and worked at the Reserve Bank of New Zealand and at Motu.

You are here > Home / Events / Is cap-and-trade failing? Corrective policies for the future.

Is cap-and-trade failing? Corrective policies for the future.

Thursday, 03 March 2011, 12:30pm to 2:00pm

Speaker: Dr. Ian MacKenzie, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH), Zurich.
Venue: Spectrum Theatre - BP House, 20 Customhouse Quay Wellington.

You can download a printable flyer here (PDF 188KB).

Abstract
Cap-and-trade regulation is often perceived as a panacea for many environmental problems. Given an aggregate pollution target, emission certificates are traded among polluting agents, which results in cost-effective pollution control. However, the implementation of recent schemes, such as those in the United States, European Union, and New Zealand, have called into question many current design aspects. This talk will introduce some of those controversial aspects of cap-and-trade schemes experienced around the world, as well as providing possible corrective policies (and institutional arrangements), which may avoid future problems.

Biography
Ian MacKenzie is a senior research fellow and lecturer at the Center of Economic Research, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, Zurich. He holds a PhD from the Scottish Graduate Program in Economics (SGPE) in environmental economics that dealt with issues in tradable pollution permit markets. His current research interests include strategic behaviour in cap-and-trade markets, microeconomic theory, public economics, public choice, regulatory economics, political economy of environmental regulation, and climate change policy. In particular, he has recently focused on appropriation activities of environmental rents as well as incomplete enforcement issues with respect to Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD) and the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM).

You are here > Home / Events / Economic Impacts of Immigration

Economic Impacts of Immigration

Friday, 17 December 2010, 12:29pm to 1:59pm

Venue: Old Government House, Women’s Federation Room. Corner Princes Street and Waterloo Quadrant, Auckland

Speaker: Jacques Poot, Professor of Population Economics - The University of Waikato
Commentator: Professor Paul Spoonley, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Massey University Albany

You can download a printable flyer here (PDF 378kb)

Abstract
In recent years there has been a lot of research on the economic impacts of immigration, both in New Zealand and abroad. In many areas a consensus has been reached on what the impacts are, although in some other areas there remains uncertainty. At this seminar, a report - written by Rob Hodgson and Jacques Poot - that reviews 2005-2010 research on the economic impacts of immigration, will be launched and summarised. The report concludes that immigration has made a positive contribution to economic outcomes in New Zealand and that fears for negative economic impacts such as net fiscal costs, house price inflation, lower wages, and increasing unemployment find very little support in the available empirical evidence. Moreover, the economic integration of immigrants is broadly successful. Migration increases trade and tourism, both inbound and outbound. The net fiscal impact of immigration is positive. The links between immigration and technological change are complex. Additional immigration raises gross domestic product (GDP) per capita, albeit only modestly. Without net immigration, GDP per capita would be less. Changes in immigration policy and in the New Zealand economy over the last quarter century now yield greater economic benefits from immigration than in the past.

Biography
Jacques Poot works in the recently launched National Institute of Demographic and Economic Analysis, a collaboration between Population Studies at Waikato University, Waikato Management School and Motu. He is also an adjunct Professor at VU University Amsterdam and has a PhD from Victoria University of Wellington, where he held various academic positions between 1979 and 2003. Jacques was also Foreign Professor at the University of Tsukuba in Japan (1994-97 and 2002). He is an Honorary Fellow of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, an External Research Fellow of the Centre for Research and Analysis of Migration (CReAM) in London, Research Fellow of IZA - Institute for the Study of Labor in Bonn, and an Affiliate of Motu. Jointly with Paul Spoonley at Massey University, Jacques co-leads the FRST-funded 2007-2012 Integration of Immigrants Programme (IIP) in New Zealand, while jointly with Peter Nijkamp of VU University he co-leads a 2010-2013 research programme on Migrant Diversity and Regional Disparity in Europe (MIDI-REDIE).

You are here > Home / Events / Economic Impacts of Immigration

Economic Impacts of Immigration

Thursday, 16 December 2010, 12:30pm to 2:00pm

Venue: Old Government House, Women’s Federation Room. Corner Princes Street and Waterloo Quadrant, Auckland.

Speaker: Jacques Poot, Professor of Population Economics - The University of Waikato
Commentator: Nigel Bickle, Deputy Chief Executive, Immigration - Department of Labour

You can download a printable flyer here (PDF 397KB)

Abstract
In recent years there has been a lot of research on the economic impacts of immigration, both in New Zealand and abroad. In many areas a consensus has been reached on what the impacts are, although in some other areas there remains uncertainty. At this seminar, a report - written by Rob Hodgson and Jacques Poot - that reviews 2005-2010 research on the economic impacts of immigration, will be launched and summarised. The report concludes that immigration has made a positive contribution to economic outcomes in New Zealand and that fears for negative economic impacts such as net fiscal costs, house price inflation, lower wages, and increasing unemployment find very little support in the available empirical evidence. Moreover, the economic integration of immigrants is broadly successful. Migration increases trade and tourism, both inbound and outbound. The net fiscal impact of immigration is positive. The links between immigration and technological change are complex. Additional immigration raises gross domestic product (GDP) per capita, albeit only modestly. Without net immigration, GDP per capita would be less. Changes in immigration policy and in the New Zealand economy over the last quarter century now yield greater economic benefits from immigration than in the past.

Biography
Jacques Poot works in the recently launched National Institute of Demographic and Economic Analysis, a collaboration between Population Studies at Waikato University, Waikato Management School and Motu. He is also an adjunct Professor at VU University Amsterdam and has a PhD from Victoria University of Wellington, where he held various academic positions between 1979 and 2003. Jacques was also Foreign Professor at the University of Tsukuba in Japan (1994-97 and 2002). He is an Honorary Fellow of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, an External Research Fellow of the Centre for Research and Analysis of Migration (CReAM) in London, Research Fellow of IZA - Institute for the Study of Labor in Bonn, and an Affiliate of Motu. Jointly with Paul Spoonley at Massey University, Jacques co-leads the FRST-funded 2007-2012 Integration of Immigrants Programme (IIP) in New Zealand, while jointly with Peter Nijkamp of VU University he co-leads a 2010-2013 research programme on Migrant Diversity and Regional Disparity in Europe (MIDI-REDIE).

You are here > Home / Events / NZSSN - Social Research Methods Short Courses

NZSSN - Social Research Methods Short Courses

Monday, 07 February 2011 to Friday, 18 February 2011

The New Zealand Social Statistics Network is offering short courses at the School of Government, Pipitea Campus, Victoria University of Wellington, 7th-18th February 2011.

Download the Flyer for details and dates of each course here (PDF 114KB)

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND/OR TO ENROL, PLEASE VISIT www.nzssn.org.nz OR EMAIL

You are here > Home / Events / Public Policy and Growth

Public Policy and Growth

Thursday, 09 December 2010, 12:30pm to 2:00pm

Prof Rachel Griffith, University of Manchester

This seminar is co-hosted with the Ministry of Economic Development

Venue: Spectrum Presentation Theatre, BP House, 20 Customhouse Quay, Wellington

Speaker: Prof Rachel Griffith, University of Manchester
Commentator: Philip Stevens, Chief Advisor, Economic Strategy - Ministry of Economic Development

Download a printable flyer here (PDF 400KB)
Download related paper “Public Policy and Growth in New Zealand (DRAFT)” (PDF 1.03MB)

Abstract
Achieving productivity growth and closing the productivity gap with the major world economies has been a recent policy objective of many governments. This talk will document New Zealand’s economic performance compared to major world economies and discuss what the evidence suggests about why some countries have lagged behind while others have not.
Public policy influences the economic environment in which individuals and firms invest and innovate, and in which knowledge is diffused. We will consider what is the role for public policy intervention and what sorts of policies are likely to be most effective for the future.

Biography
Rachel is Professor of Economics, University of Manchester UK and Deputy Research Director of the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS), London UK. Her research considers the links between government policy and private sector performance. Her work has been published widely in academic journals and policy-oriented formats. She regularly engages with policy makers in the UK and EU. She is a Fellow of the British Academy, has served as a Director of the Review of Economic Studies, as a member of the Executive Committee of the European Economic Association and as a member of the Council of the Royal Economics Society. She has worked for the UK Competition Commission and in the private sector.

You are here > Home / Events / Migration and Youth Development: Insights from a Child Centric Approach

Migration and Youth Development: Insights from a Child Centric Approach

Thursday, 04 November 2010, 12:30pm to 2:00pm

Marta Tienda - Professor of Sociology and Public Affairs - The Office of Population Research, Princeton University

Spectrum Presentation Theatre, BP House, 20 Customhouse Quay Wellington

Download a printable flyer here (PDF 433KB)

Abstract
International migration has been rising over time in response to global economic and political integration, and the size and composition of the flows has changed, with women and children comprising larger shares of the flows. Unlike the feminization of migration, which has been amply documented since the mid 1980s, there has been scant attention to children’s involvement in international migration and its consequences for their psychosocial, physical and economic wellbeing. Youth were missing from the agenda of the first meeting of the Global Forum on Migration and Development (2007), which claims to have shifted a policy paradigm by moving development to the center of the migration debate. I will discuss migration and development from a child-centric perspective by elaborating an analytical framework and illustrating novel insights about child migration using cross-national evidence about living arrangements and marriage behavior according to life cycle timing of international migration.

Biography
Marta Tienda is Maurice P. During ‘22 Professor in Demographic Studies, Professor of Sociology and Public Affairs at Princeton University, and from 1997-2002 served as director of the Office of Population Research at Princeton University. She is co-author and co-editor of several books, including of The Hispanic Population of the United States (1987), Divided Opportunities (1988), The Color of Opportunity (2001), Youth in Cities (2002), Ethnicity and Causal Mechanisms (2005), Multiple Origins, Uncertain Destinies (2006), Hispanics and the Future of America (2006), and Africa on the Move (2006). She has published over 150 scholarly papers in academic journals and edited collections, in addition to numerous research bulletins and articles for a lay audience.

You are here > Home / Events / David Suzuki: The Legacy- An Elder’s Vision For Our Sustainable Future

David Suzuki: The Legacy- An Elder’s Vision For Our Sustainable Future

Thursday, 11 November 2010, 6:00pm

David Suzuki be speaking on Thursday 11 November at 6pm in the Embassy Theatre.

David Suzuki is an influential and hugely popular Canadian Scientist, educator, broadcaster and activist. His talk ‘The Legacy- An Elder’s Vision For Our Sustainable Future’ will reflect on topics such as explosive population growth, massive technological developments and the establishment of a global economy.

Tickets are available for purchase online or at the Embassy box office by phone or in person (04 384 7657) for $25. Royal Society of New Zealand members can purchase tickets for a discounted price of $20.

We anticipate this lecture to be very popular and tickets are strictly limited so book now to avoid disappointment:

http://www.royalsociety.org.nz/events/upcoming/suzuki-legacy/

You are here > Home / Events / 14th Labour Employment and Work Conference

14th Labour Employment and Work Conference

Tuesday, 30 November 2010 to Wednesday, 01 December 2010

Rutherford House, Victoria University of Wellington.

The Labour Employment and Work Conference is held every two years. It is jointly hosted by the Industrial Relations Centre and the Institute of Geography, Victoria University of Wellington.

The two-day conference aims to bring together those with a professional interest in research on labour markets, employment and the nature of paid work in New Zealand and Australia. Papers are invited from any university discipline, CRI or other public or private organisation or individual. The only criterion is that the paper reflects the author’s current or recently completed research on labour, employment or work issues in New Zealand and/or Australia.

If you are interested in registering for the conference contact:

Sue Ryall, Senior Administrator, Industrial Relations Centre, Victoria University of Wellington
Tel 64 4 463 5143. Email:
Or visit the LEW14 web-site http://www.victoria.ac.nz/vms/researchcentres/lew-registration.aspx

See the conference web page for information about the papers and speakers http://www.victoria.ac.nz/vms/researchcentres/LEW_Proceedings.aspx

Download conference flier.

At this conference, Motu’s Andrew Coleman and Hugh McDonald will present a paper about gender differences in the trans-Tasman income divide.

Read a Motu working paper on the trans-Tasman income divide.

You are here > Home / Events / Economic Theory and Tax and Pension Policies

Economic Theory and Tax and Pension Policies

Tuesday, 05 October 2010, 1:30pm to 3:00pm

The next Treasury Guest Lecturer Peter Diamond, one of the world’s leading economists, is an Institute Professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He is renowned for his analysis of US Social Security policy and his work as an advisor to the Advisory Council on Social Security. He will be discussing Economic Theory and Tax and Pension Policies.

“Over the last decade or so, I have been involved in studying and advising about mandatory pension systems, an interest I have pursued intermittently since the mid 1970’s. Over the same period, I have returned to the study of optimal tax theory, with particular attention to the taxation of capital income. I could not avoid noticing that these two subjects intersect in the common practice of the tax-favouring of retirement savings. And I have long been concerned about the implicit methodology used by the profession in going from theoretical analyses to policy advice. In this lecture I touch on all four of these topics - pensions, capital income taxes, tax-favoured retirement savings, and methodology.”

Date: Tuesday 5 October 2010
Time: 1.30 pm-3 pm
Venue: Level 5 meeting room, Treasury, 1 The Terrace, Wellington

Please RSVP (for seating purposes) to Lyn Crossley by Friday 1 October 2010. If there are individuals or groups in your organisation who could be interested in attending this lecture, please forward this notice to them or send me an email address so that I may send an invitation.

Information about Peter Diamond and the lecture is available on the Treasury website event page.

You are here > Home / Events / Re-setting Science and Innovation for the next 20 years

Re-setting Science and Innovation for the next 20 years

Thursday, 21 October 2010

A one day conference in collaboration with the New Zealand Association of Scientists.

Wellington Town Hall, Civic Suites, 2nd floor, 111 Wakefield St, Wellington.

The research, science and technology system is currently being ‘re-set’ as science and innovation. The NZ Association of Scientists (NZAS) observes that researchers, business and economic advisers often talk past one another. NZAS acknowledges that the research community is only a part of New Zealand’s ‘innovation system’. We want to tease out the various roles, impediments to successful application of knowledge, and how to arrive at a policy language that communicates equally well with all sectors in the science and innovation system. Therefore, this one day conference aims to identify and clarify the Government’s ambitions for New Zealand, what we mean by ‘science’ and ‘innovation’ and whether current policy settings are appropriate.

A wide spectrum of speakers who have different roles in the science system have been asked to present the main features and desired characteristics of a science and innovation system, working for New Zealand, over the next 20 years.

Enquiries to Janet Grieve 04 386 0362 or email

Visit the IPS website for a programme, to register and for more info.

You are here > Home / Events / A growing need for links between society, policy and research on climate change

A growing need for links between society, policy and research on climate change

Friday, 17 September 2010, 12:30pm to 1:30pm

To those of us who are climate scientists, the last few years seem to have shown that some aspects of our climate are starting to change either faster or by more than we had expected. At the same time, the media are often portraying a society with increasing dubiousness about this science, while policymakers seem to be faced with increasing inertia for establishing any significant collective response. There is increasing recognition that we do have to adapt in a changing world, but is our environment now moving more rapidly than humanity can?

Dr Martin Manning is the Inaugural Director of the New Zealand Climate Change Research Institute at Victoria University. He has worked as a Theoretical Nuclear Physicist in Canada, the UK and New Zealand, but became progressively involved in atmospheric and climate change science from 1980 onward.

Visit the IPS website for more info about this and other upcoming events.

Download seminar (PDF 91.5KB)

You are here > Home / Events / Two cultures fifty years on

Two cultures fifty years on

Tuesday, 21 September 2010, 7:30pm to 9:00pm

Speaker: Baroness Onora O’Neill

10 New Zealand Aronui Lecture Series

The humanities and science were once seen as entirely different cultures. Now that we appreciate their similarities, how will looking at the world through two lenses infl uence our future?

Location: Ilott Theatre, Wellington Town Hall (entry via Town Hall Foyer, Wakefi eld Street), Wellington.

This lecture is free and open to the public.

Go to the Royal society website to learn more and to register.

You are here > Home / Events / New Zealand’s Untapped Potential - The Innovation Agenda

New Zealand’s Untapped Potential - The Innovation Agenda

Wednesday, 15 September 2010, 12:30pm to 2:00pm

Speaker: Dr Rick Boven, director, The New Zealand Institute.

This seminar is hosted by the University of Auckland Masters in Public Policy programme and is part of the series, ‘New Zealand: Realising Our Potential’.

Venue: University of Auckland campus: Old Government House, Women’s Federation room. Paid parking is available at the Owen G Glenn Building (12 Grafton Road).

Abstract
Many people in New Zealand share a desire to see the country improve its economic performance and, hence, create more prosperity for all members of our society. But there is less agreement over how that greater economic performance might be achieved. New Zealanders espouse a range of values that some fear could be lost in a quest to significantly improve our economic performance. Less attention appears to be given to the risks associated with maintaining the status quo. In recent years, members of the New Zealand Institute have called for the enhancement of New Zealand’s research and development capabilities. In that view, the national innovation system could do with some major structural adjustments to make it more effective as a generator of knowledge-based products of high value in the global economy. At a less visible level - but just as importantly - significant innovations can be made in production processes across the economy. Such organisational innovation can serve to enhance economic productivity - an area that must be addressed if economic growth is to occur. In this seminar, Dr. Rick Boven will discuss the current research agenda of the New Zealand Institute and answer these questions:

* With respect to promoting export-focused innovation, what should New Zealand be doing to improve its research and development performance?
* With respect to promoting more productivity across the economy, what kind of organisational innovations should New Zealand be pursuing?
* What are the policy implications?

Commentator: Dr Professor Cris Shore, Department of Anthropology, University of Auckland.

Find out more information about this and other seminars in this series here.

You are here > Home / Events / General Equilibrium Analysis of CO2 Mitigation Options

General Equilibrium Analysis of CO2 Mitigation Options

Thursday, 23 September 2010, 12:30pm to 2:00pm

Speaker: Adolf Stroombergen, chief economist and director, Infometrics.

Venue: Spectrum Theatre, BP House, 20 Customhouse Quay Wellington.

You can download a printable flyer here (PDF 366KB).

Abstract
Recent years have seen many suggestions for policies that would assist New Zealand to meet some future ‘post-Kyoto’ type of international emissions reduction obligation. These range from simply having the government purchase from offshore whatever number of emission permits are required to cover the country’s excess emissions, financed by general taxation; to more targeted polices such as subsidised or compulsory use of biofuels, a ban on thermal generation, a multitude of energy conservation and energy efficiency programmes, and average vehicle fleet fuel efficiency standards. And of course numerous variations on an emissions trading scheme (ETS). Some of the more tenuous policies have been discarded, but there is still enough interest (and of course vested interest) in many options other than a pure ETS or pure carbon price. Do any of them have a sound economic case? In this paper we examine an ETS and some of the more prominent alternative (or complementary) policies in a consistent general equilibrium framework. Our objective is to ascertain which policy or policies enable New Zealand to meet some given international emissions obligation at lowest economic cost.

Biography
Adolf has been responsible for managing Infometrics consulting services since 1997. He has a PhD in economics and specialises in mathematical economics, econometrics and economic modelling. His work has included general equilibrium analyses of changes in import protection, road funding, climate change and carbon charges; econometric estimation of forecasting models and empirical relationships in the areas of corporate credit risk and organisational structure; and the development of microsimulation models of savings and the tertiary student loan scheme. Adolf has been a member of the Advisory Committee on Economic Statistics since 1996 and he was an Expert Reviewer for the IPCC Working Group II Third and Fourth Assessment Reports.

You are here > Home / Events / NZARES Conference 2010: The role of the primary sector in emerging from the recession?

NZARES Conference 2010: The role of the primary sector in emerging from the recession?

Thursday, 26 August 2010 to Friday, 27 August 2010

Motu Senior Fellow Suzi Kerr with Motu environment team Research Analysts and interns are presenting several papers at this year’s New Zealand Agricultural and Resource Economics Society Incorporated (NZARES) conference.

Venue: Tahuna Conference Centre, Nelson.

Information available on the NZARES website.

You are here > Home / Events / Credit constraints and firm dynamics

Credit constraints and firm dynamics

Friday, 20 August 2010, 12:30pm to 2:00pm

Dr El-Hadj Bah, University of Auckland

(Joint paper with Jorge Alonso, Arizona State University and Lei Fang, The Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta)

Venue: Boardroom, Level 12 Rutherford House, 23 Lambton Quay (PIPITEA CAMPUS).

Abstract: We develop a general equilibrium model that links entry barriers, firm dynamics and borrowing constraints. In the model, firms borrow to finance entry cost and extra investment above net profits. To borrow, firms post collateral that depends on their future capital stock. Firms also face idiosyncratic productivity shocks every period. The borrowing constraint and entry barrier have an effect on firm dynamics. This has aggregate implications for productivity and income differences across countries. A country with lower financial development faces tighter borrowing constraint that leads to lower aggregate productivity and income.

This is a lunchtime seminar feel free to bring brown bag lunch.
Tea and coffee will be available prior to the seminar.

All welcome. Some copies of the paper will be available at the presentation.

You are here > Home / Events / Spatial Statistics Conference: Mapping global change

Spatial Statistics Conference: Mapping global change

Wednesday, 23 March 2011 to Friday, 25 March 2011

Call for papers.

Deadline for abstract submission is September 21 2010.

The conference will be held at the University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands.

Spatial statistics is a rapidly developing field which involves the quantitative analysis of spatial data and the statistical modelling of spatial variability and uncertainty. Applications of spatial statistics are for a broad range of environmental disciplines such as agriculture, geology, soil science, hydrology, ecology, oceanography, forestry, meteorology and climatology, but also for socio-economic disciplines such as human geography, spatial econometrics, epidemiology and spatial planning.

The aim of the meeting is to present interdisciplinary research where applicability in other disciplines is a central core concept.

Information on www.spatialstatisticsconference.com.

You are here > Home / Events / Social Sciences, Public Policy, and Difficult Decisions

Social Sciences, Public Policy, and Difficult Decisions

Monday, 13 September 2010, 12:30pm to 2:00pm

Speaker: Len Cook, Independent government administration professional, and former government statistician

Venue: Council Chamber, Auckland town hall, 301 Queen Street Auckland (ground floor, entrance under clock tower)

You can download a printable flyer here (PDF 316KB).

Abstract
The presentation highlights population changes that bring the most difficulty in making effective long term decisions. In examining past and future demographic trends, the presentation considers the opportunity cost of a delayed response to major structural shifts in the population that could be critical to future wealth creation in New Zealand. The talk draws on two papers completed while chair of SPEaR, and looks at how the social sciences can influence timely decision-making, by the capacity for effective anticipation of population shifts.

Download the related papers: “Population change and its implications for forecasting policy…” (PDF 501KB),

and “Leading Social Policy Research in the New Zealand Public Sector…” (PDF 208KB).

Biography
Len Cook was the National Statistician of the United Kingdom from 2000 to 2005, and from 1992 to 2000, he was the Government Statistician of New Zealand. As well as working in Statistics New Zealand in a variety of roles from 1971 to 1999, becoming Deputy Government Statistician in 1986, he was a member of the Royal Commission on Social policy in 1987-88. Some recent roles include Vice-President, International Statistics Institute (2005-2009), Chair, Medical Training Board (2007-2009), Chair, Social Policy and Evaluation Research Committee (2008-2010), President, Institute of Public Administration NZ (2009-). Visiting Professor in the Department of Epidemiology and Public Health at UCL, (2006-2010). Chair, Advisory Board, NZ Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (2009-).

You can download a printable flyer here (PDF 316KB).

You are here > Home / Events / Social Sciences, Public Policy, and Difficult Decisions

Social Sciences, Public Policy, and Difficult Decisions

Thursday, 26 August 2010, 12:30pm to 2:00pm

Len Cook, Independent government administration professional, and former government statistician

Spectrum Presentation Theatre, BP House, 20 Customhouse Quay Wellington

Abstract
The presentation highlights population changes that bring the most difficulty in making effective long term decisions. In examining past and future demographic trends, the presentation considers the opportunity cost of a delayed response to major structural shifts in the population that could be critical to future wealth creation in New Zealand. The talk draws on two papers completed while chair of SPEaR, and looks at how the social sciences can influence timely decision-making, by the capacity for effective anticipation of population shifts.

Download the related papers: “Population change and its implications for forecasting policy…” (PDF 501KB),

and “Leading Social Policy Research in the New Zealand Public Sector…” (PDF 208KB).

Biography
Len Cook was the National Statistician of the United Kingdom from 2000 to 2005, and from 1992 to 2000, he was the Government Statistician of New Zealand. As well as working in Statistics New Zealand in a variety of roles from 1971 to 1999, becoming Deputy Government Statistician in 1986, he was a member of the Royal Commission on Social policy in 1987-88. Some recent roles include Vice-President, International Statistics Institute (2005-2009), Chair, Medical Training Board (2007-2009), Chair, Social Policy and Evaluation Research Committee (2008-2010), President, Institute of Public Administration NZ (2009-). Visiting Professor in the Department of Epidemiology and Public Health at UCL, (2006-2010). Chair, Advisory Board, NZ Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (2009-).

You can download a printable flyer here (PDF 385KB).

You are here > Home / Events / Cleantech: Transforming our economy to low carbon and high value

Cleantech: Transforming our economy to low carbon and high value

Monday, 26 July 2010, 12:15pm to 1:15pm

Chris Mulcare, Investment Manager, Clean Technology Investment New Zealand, NZ Trade and Enterprise

Download se m inar flier (PDF KB).

You are here > Home / Events / New Zealand’s Economic Powerhouse - The Auckland Agenda

New Zealand’s Economic Powerhouse - The Auckland Agenda

Thursday, 29 July 2010, 12:30pm to 2:00pm

2010 Master of Public Policy Seminar Series: New Zealand - Realising our Potential

Auckland Public Policy Seminar Series

Leader Speaker: Kaaren Goodall, Executive Director, Committee on Auckland.

University of Auckland campus: Old Government House, Women’s Federation room

Abstract
Auckland represents a key asset to the New Zealand economy. The city is the country’s major business and investment hub. Together, the city and broader Auckland region make a significant contribution to the national GDP. Average productivity rates of workers in Auckland are significantly higher than those of workers in equivalent sectors elsewhere in the country. The city is highly diverse. New migrants to New Zealand settle predominantly in Auckland. The city’s population is growing faster than that of any other major centre in New Zealand. Auckland is also the knowledge base for the country. Its universities and technical institutes educate a large proportion of New Zealand’s tertiary graduates. In this seminar , Kaaren Goodall will discuss the current work programme of the Committee for Auckland and address two important questions:

• What could allow Auckland to perform at its best as an economic powerhouse?
• What factors currently hinder Auckland from realising its full potential and how could those factors be addressed?

Commentator: David Wilson, Director of the Institute of Public Policy and Programme Leader for Economic Development, Auckland University of Technology.

Paid parking is available at the Owen G Glenn Building (12 Grafton Road).

Click here for more details on this seminar series. Download flier (PDF 80KB).

You are here > Home / Events / Legal Transplants in the Digital Age

Legal Transplants in the Digital Age

Wednesday, 28 July 2010, 7:30am to 9:00am

The Centre for Accounting, Governance and Taxation Research (CAGTR) is organising a Breakfast Seminar on Wednesday, 28 July 2010 in Lecture Theatre 2, Rutherford House, Victoria University of Wellington, 23 Lambton Quay, Wellington.

Professor Peter Yu (Drake University Law School).

The advent of the Internet and new communications technologies has created many challenges for the copyright system. To protect the interests of copyright holders, policymakers throughout the world have been scrambling for legislative solutions, which are often modelled after laws in other countries and are heavily lobbied by the creative industries. Using as illustrations the recently proposed digital copyright reforms in Hong Kong and the ongoing efforts to introduce the creative commons license in the region, this presentation examines the strengths and weaknesses of legal transplants and offers guidelines on determining when those transplants would be undesirable.

The invitation to the seminar is available here.

Please RSVP attendance, for catering purposes, by latest Monday, 26 July 2010.

You are here > Home / Events / Telecommunications: Ubiquity and equity in a broadband environment

Telecommunications: Ubiquity and equity in a broadband environment

Thursday, 26 August 2010 to Wednesday, 28 July 2010

The Institute for the Study of Competition and Regulation is delighted to be hosting an international conference in Wellington, 26-28 August 2010, entitled Telecommunications: Ubiquity and Equity in a Broadband Environment. Endorsed by the International Telecommunications Society (ITS) this will be the first Asia-Pacific ITS Regional Conference.

The conference theme addresses the issues of Universal Service (charging consumers equalised prices across geographic and market segments) and Network Neutrality (non-discrimination of packet traffic on the network - both issues of great current relevance in New Zealand. The conference provides an opportunity for these issues to be addressed by way of keynote addresses, paper presentations, plenary sessions and formal and informal networking. Keynote speakers include Professors Stanford Levin, Andrea Renda and Robert Crandall. Papers for presentation have been accepted from many countries including South Africa, The Netherlands, Korea, USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.

Registration is now open. Click here to register.

Please note that there is an ‘Earlybird’ discount available for all registrations received before July 15.

You are here > Home / Events / 6th Australia-New Zealand Climate Change & Business Conference

6th Australia-New Zealand Climate Change & Business Conference

Tuesday, 10 August 2010 to Thursday, 12 August 2010

6th Australia-New Zealand Climate Change & Business Conference
10 - 12 August 2010, Sydney, Australia

The 6th Australia-New Zealand Climate Change & Business Conference brings together business leaders and policy makers from both countries to facilitate action on climate change.
The conference will focus on business providing leadership as climate change policy develops and is implemented. New Zealanders will have the opportunity to update Australians on implementation of an ETS and to hear about proposed future Australian policy under a new Prime Minister with an election pending.
Key themes of the conference include:

• Latest ideas on how key business sectors can reduce emissions
• How to leverage investment in low emissions technology
• Practical learnings from New Zealand’s implementation of an ETS
• Emerging policy settings beyond price mechanisms
• International policy developments and their potential impact on our region
• Adapting to climate change exemplified by some best practice case studies
• Communicating climate change to the public

The event will include an exhibition themed around the Ccnference programme. The conference is organized by the Climate Change & Business Centre and Point Carbon with the support of business groups, NGOs and government agencies in five countries.

Registration and further details are available at: http://www.climateandbusiness.com.

You are here > Home / Events / Sino Trade Agreements: Is China’s Bilateral Strategy Different from that of the European Union or the United States?

Sino Trade Agreements: Is China’s Bilateral Strategy Different from that of the European Union or the United States?

Monday, 26 July 2010

The Centre for Accounting, Governance and Taxation Research (CAGTR), in conjunction with the New Zealand Centre of International Economic Law (NZCIEL) and the New Zealand Contemporary China Research Centre (NZCCRC) is organising a Business Links Seminar on Monday, 26 July 2010 in Lecture Theatre 2, Rutherford House, Victoria University of Wellington, 23 Lambton Quay, Wellington.

The seminar is entitled: “Sino Trade Agreements: Is China’s Bilateral Strategy Different from that of the European Union or the United States?” and will be presented by Professor Peter Yu (Drake University Law School) with Professor Susy Frankel providing a commentary and Professor Xiaoming Huang chairing the seminar.

In the past decade, the European Union and the United States have pushed aggressively for the development of bilateral and regional trade agreements. Are bilateral and regional trade agreements established by China different from these agreements? What are their goals? What is China’s negotiation strategy? What will happen if China’s approach clashes with that of the European Union and the United States?

The invitation to the seminar is available at the following link: http://www.victoria.ac.nz/sacl/cagtr/pdf/peter-yu-business-links-invitation-260710.pdf .

Please rsvp attendance, for catering purposes, by latest Thursday, 22 July 2010.

You are here > Home / Events / Colloquium: Informing health and social policy

Colloquium: Informing health and social policy

Friday, 30 July 2010

Venue: Statistics New Zealand, Statistics House, The Boulevard, Harbour Quays, Wellington.

Download info and programme (245KB)

Please RSVP to for catering purposes, advising whether you will require morning tea, lunch, or both, and what session(s) you will attend.

You are here > Home / Events / Cyclical Changes in Firm Volatility

Cyclical Changes in Firm Volatility

Friday, 09 July 2010, 12:30pm to 2:00pm

Guest speaker: Emmanuel De Veirman (Manu), Reserve Bank of New Zealand, Wellington.

Paper Title: “Cyclical Changes in Firm Volatility”

Date and Time: Friday 9 July, 2010 at 12.30 - 2pm

Venue: Level 12, Boardroom, Rutherford House, 23 Lambton Quay, Wellington - PIPITEA CAMPUS

ABSTRACT:

This paper develops and implements a procedure to estimate cyclical changes in sales, earnings and employment volatility at the firm level. We argue that existing measures, which were primarily designed to capture longer-run trends in firm volatility, do not yield interpretable results about cyclical patters in volatility. Our findings suggest that firm-specific output volatility gradually increases during extended booms and gradually declines after adverse aggregate events. The same cyclical patters apply to changes in the dispersion in firm growth rates.

All welcome, tea and coffee provided 5 minutes before the seminar.

As this is a lunchtime seminar, feel free to bring brown bag lunch.

You are here > Home / Events / Economic approaches to causal inference

Economic approaches to causal inference

Thursday, 23 September 2010 to Thursday, 07 October 2010

Course Objectives

The course provides participants with an understanding of a range of methods used by economists to address causal questions. It is intended primarily for practitioners who will be designing and conducting empirical analyses for research and evaluation projects. As such, it provides the intuition behind various research designs, an appreciation of the strengths and weaknesses of different approaches, and guidance on practical estimation issues and diagnostic testing. It will illustrate the use of different approaches by examining examples of published studies.

Instructors:
Dr Steve Stillman & Dr David Maré, Motu Senior Fellows

Course format:
Part A: (3 half day sessions)
Part B: (1 half-day session)
Minimum Course size: 6 people
Maximum Course size: 20 people

Venue: To be confirmed
Dates: (provisionally - may be altered to suit participants)
Part A: September 23, 28, 30 (1pm-5pm)
Part B: Thurs 7 October 1 pm - 5 pm

Cost Part A: $2,500 per participant; Part B: $1,250 per participant (GST exclusive)

Download detailed information on this course. To register for the course, please email or fax the registration form that is on the back of the information flyer to or (Fax: +64 4 939 4251)

Or for more information, phone David Maré on +64 4 939 4250.

Click here to see Motu’s other teaching activities.

You are here > Home / Events / Can we trust the evidence on taxpayer income reporting responses?

Can we trust the evidence on taxpayer income reporting responses?

Tuesday, 29 June 2010, 11:00am to 12:30pm

Level 5 meeting room, Treasury, 1 The Terrace, Wellington.

The Treasury and the Centre for Accounting, Governance and Taxation Research (CAGTR) are pleased to invite you to the next Treasury Guest Lecture which will be presented by Dr James Alm, Professor of Economics in the Andrew Young School of Policy Studies at Georgia State University, USA.

Please RSVP (for seating purposes) to Lyn Crossley by Friday 25 June 2010.
If there are individuals or groups in your organisation who could be interested in attending this lecture, please forward this notice to them.

Further information on Professor Alm and the lecture is available here.

You are here > Home / Events / New Zealand Tax Reform - The next steps

New Zealand Tax Reform - The next steps

Tuesday, 06 July 2010, 5:30pm to 7:00pm

The Centre for Accounting, Governance and Taxation Research is organising a Business Links Seminar on Tuesday, 6 July 2010 in Lecture Theatre 2, Rutherford House, Victoria University of Wellington, 23 Lambton Quay, Wellington.

The seminar is entitled: “New Zealand Tax Reform - The next steps”. Professor Bob Buckle will discuss the Tax Working Group, the New Zealand Budget and the Future. John Cantin will then talk about the Henry Review, the Australian Budget and the Implications for New Zealand. John Shewan, Bob Buckle and John Cantin will then form a panel to answer questions.

Following the Business Links seminar, the Secretary to the Treasury, John Whitehead and the Commissioner of Inland Revenue, Bob Russell, will launch a book by some leading international and New Zealand tax economists discussing appropriate directions for tax and transfer reform in New Zealand and other small open economies.

Attached please find the invitation to the seminar and the book launch.

Please rsvp attendance, for catering purposes, by latest Friday, 2 July 2010.

You are here > Home / Events / Infrastructure workshop

Infrastructure workshop

Tuesday, 13 July 2010

Motu Economic and Public Policy Research and the Institute of Policy Studies at Victoria University of Wellington.

Location: Te Papa Tongarewa, Wellington.

This workshop is free, but you need to RSVP to Maureen Revell. Numbers are limited.

Download the workshop programme.

You are here > Home / Events / Social Exclusion and Disadvantage across the life course

Social Exclusion and Disadvantage across the life course

Tuesday, 22 June 2010, 1:30pm to 3:00pm

Level 5 meeting room, Treasury, 1 The Terrace, Wellington

Naomi will reflect on her experience as Director of both the Sure Start Programme and the Social Exclusion Task Force in the UK. Her talk will cover the reasons that social exclusion is so hard to tackle, the interconnections between different kinds of disadvantage and some examples of some programmes that seem to be effective in preventing future deterioration in life chances.

Please RSVP to Lyn Crossley by Friday 18 May 2010. If there are individuals or groups in your organisation who could be interested in attending this lecture, please forward this notice to them.

Click here for more information on Naomi Eisenstadt.

You are here > Home / Events / National Education Standards for New Zealand

National Education Standards for New Zealand

Wednesday, 16 June 2010, 5:29pm to 6:29pm

National Education Standards for New Zealand
A Seminar by Professor John Hattie

Wednesday 16 June 2010 at 5.30pm
Government Buildings, Lecture Theatre Three, Victoria University’s Pipitea Campus, Wellington
All welcome - no RSVP required

The premise for NZ education is still the 1989 Tomorrow’s Schools mandate and it is fraying at the edges. So many positive outcomes have accrued due to these changes but 20 years on it is looking like Yesterday’s News. The current debates about high school qualifications, national standards, the status of teaching as a profession, and the role of schools swirl around, and often the real debate that underpins these policies is missed – that is, the government can decide policy and the schools have rights to decide on implementation strategies of these policies.

This seminar will outline the status of education in NZ, identify some of the more fundamental problems in the system, and suggest a way forward to ensure schools remain at the forefront of delivering quality to our citizens.

John Hattie is Professor of Education at the University of Auckland.

http://ips.ac.nz/events/Upcoming%20events/Index.html#KeyPolicyChallengesSeminar

Upcoming Events
This seminar is one of a series presented by the School of Government in association with the Institute of Policy Studies, Victoria University of Wellington. See our websites http://ips.ac.nz/ or http://www.victoria.ac.nz/sog for information about upcoming events.

You are here > Home / Events / The Challenge of Measuring Labour Market Discrimination Against Women

The Challenge of Measuring Labour Market Discrimination Against Women

Monday, 19 July 2010, 12:30pm to 2:00pm

Prof Ronald L. Oaxoca, University of Arizona

Spectrum Presentation Theatre, BP House, 20 Customhouse Quay, Wellington

Abstract

A significant number of challenges arise when attempting to quantify the extent of labour market discrimination against women. Three major economic theories of labour market discrimination are discussed: tastes and preferences, market power, and statistical discrimination. Decomposition methodology is presented and critiqued. Issues associated with attempts to use decomposition methodology to correct gender salary inequities in the work place are carefully examined.

Biography

Ronald L. Oaxaca is McClelland Professor of Economics and Affiliated Faculty Member, Economics Science Laboratory, University of Arizona. He is a Research Fellow at IZA, Bonn Germany. His research spans the areas of labour market discrimination, experimental economics, and applied econometrics. Oaxaca has published on a variety of topics including gender wage differentials, unemployment insurance, minimum wages, laboratory tests of job search models, laboratory evaluation of econometric estimators of structural demand and supply models, science and engineering demand and supply, and within-firm equity salary adjustments. He is currently engaged in research on experimental evaluation of affirmative action programs, statistical discrimination, and optimal sickpay schemes. He is also currently researching hierarchical segregation within firms.

Click here to download a printable flyer (PDF, 717KB)

Download paper (PDF 246KB)

You are here > Home / Events / Integrity in Science: Implications for the Climate Change Debate

Integrity in Science: Implications for the Climate Change Debate

Wednesday, 09 June 2010, 5:00pm to 6:00pm

Professor Peter Gluckman

Government Buildings, Lecture Theatre One, Victoria University of Wellington’s Pipitea Campus

Contemporary science has become dominated by the study of complex systems. But such science often is associated with levels of uncertainty and is based on concepts of probability. In the case of climate change, despite this uncertainty, policy judgements need to be made so as to mitigate against and adapt to predicted scenarios. While there is a very high level of consensus amongst climate scientists as to the nature of climate change and its anthropogenic underpinnings, there is a high level of denial and scepticism in the broader community. While scepticism is inherent in a robust self-correcting scientific process, denialism is different, but it is not a unitary phenomenon. Comparable situations have included the arguments over tobacco and cancer, evolution and creation and the HIV-denial movement. Further, as has been the case in other issues of this nature, there are a variety of motives underlying these different positions and thus responses arising. The reasons for this discord are multiple and are the topic of this presentation with a focus on climate change. The consequences present a challenge both to the science system and to how science and society will continue to interact.

Professor Sir Peter D Gluckman KNZM FRSNZ FMedSci FRS is Chief Science Advisor to the Prime Minister. He is also University Distinguished Professor, Professor of Paediatric and Perinatal Biology and Director Emeritus in the Liggins Institute University of Auckland and Programme Director, Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences. His own research spans from molecular to economic, encompassing the regulation of fetal and postnatal development, the long term consequences to poor start to life, and the evolutionarymedical interface. This has an agricultural as well as human perspective. He has taken an active role in promoting public engagement with science.

No RSVP required. All welcome.

Other seminars to come:

This event is one of the Key Policy Challenges Facing New Zealand seminars, a series of six being presented by the School of Government and the Institute of Policy Studies, Victoria University. The final seminar (to follow) is:

Professor John Hattie National Education Standards for New Zealand
5.30 pm Wednesday 16 June
Government Buildings, lecture theatre three
For full details go to either the School of Government website or the Institute of Policy Studies website

You are here > Home / Events / Informed Thinking on Frequent, Connected and Visible Metropolitan-Wide Public Transport

Informed Thinking on Frequent, Connected and Visible Metropolitan-Wide Public Transport

Thursday, 01 July 2010, 12:30pm to 2:00pm

Dr David Hensher, University of Sydney

Reception Lounge, Auckland Town Hall, 301 Queen St (entrance under the clocktower)

Abstract

In developing appropriate transport ‘solutions’ for our cities we must be cognizant of the spatial setting within which transport can support accessibility. Doing so emphasises the system as a whole, rather than as a series of projects and corridors. This talk focuses on transport in a spatial setting. It discusses opportunities to improve public transport and its value for money. It also discusses sources of funding and what new sources should be harnessed if we are to deliver real accessibility and environmental benefits.

Biography

David Hensher is Professor of Management and Founding Director of the Institute of Transport and Logistics Studies (ITLS) at the University of Sydney. He is on the editorial boards of 10 of the leading transport journals and Area Editor of Transport Reviews. He is also series and volume editor of a handbook series “Handbooks in Transport”. David has published extensively (over 435 papers) in the leading international transport journals and key journals in economics as well as 12 books.

Download a printable flyer

You are here > Home / Events / Is Auckland a knowledge economy?

Is Auckland a knowledge economy?

Thursday, 27 May 2010, 12:30pm to 2:00pm

Arthur Grimes, Motu Economic and Public Policy Research and University of Waikato

GUEDO, Level 6, The Tower Building, 45 Queen St, Auckland

Abstract
Auckland, with a population of 1.3 million, is New Zealand’s largest urban area. International studies demonstrate that knowledge-intensive economic activities are strongly correlated with high living standards and that these activities tend to cluster within larger agglomerations. This seminar examines how trends in Auckland’s knowledge-intensive activities have developed relative to those in comparator cities within New Zealand and Australia.

Biography
Arthur has a BSocSc(Hons) from University of Waikato, and completed his PhD in Economics at the London School of Economics in 1987. He is currently Senior Fellow at Motu Research, Chair of the Board of the Reserve Bank, Chair of the Hugo Group and Adjunct Professor of Economics at the University of Waikato. He previously had prominent roles as Director of the Institute of Policy Studies, Victoria University of Wellington, and at the Reserve Bank of New Zealand and National Bank of New Zealand.

Click here for a printable flyer (PDF, 357 KB)

You are here > Home / Events / The Child Trust Fund: Improving Financial Capability in the UK

The Child Trust Fund: Improving Financial Capability in the UK

Thursday, 03 June 2010, 10:00am to 12:00pm

Seminar by Rajiv Prabhakar, London School of Economics

Location: TBC

Inland Revenue is pleased to host a seminar by visiting academic Rajiv Prabhaker.

Dr. Prabhakar is a Research Fellow at the London School of Economics and a lecturer in personal finance at the Open University. His research work focuses on asset-based welfare and the Child Trust Fund. He is currently undertaking an Economic and Research Council funded knowledge transfer project on ‘The assets agenda: Transferring knowledge on assets, financial education and wealth inequality’.
His visit is being jointly hosted by Inland Revenue and the Treasury. Dr. Prabhakar will be the invited speaker at a Treasury lecture on the 2nd June. It is intended this seminar provides an opportunity for him to speak in more detail about the design features of the Child Trust Fund including ideas around financial education and promoting financial capability. There will be time for discussion at the end of the presentation.

If you wish to attend this seminar please RSVP to Lorrae Ward at by 17th May for catering and venue planning. Numbers will be limited to enable discussion.

You are here > Home / Events / Which Tongans move to New Zealand via the Pacific Assess Category quota, and how does it change their lives?

Which Tongans move to New Zealand via the Pacific Assess Category quota, and how does it change their lives?

Tuesday, 25 May 2010, 12:30pm to 2:00pm

Steven Stillman, Motu Economic and Public Policy Research

Spectrum Presentation Theatre, BP House, 20 Customhouse Quay, Wellington

Abstract

People migrate to improve their well-being, whether through an expansion of economic and social opportunities or a reduction in persecution. Measuring the impact of migration is complicated by non-random selection of migrants from the general population, which makes it hard to obtain an appropriate comparison group of non-migrants. This seminar discusses the findings from a series of research papers that examine the impact of migration on socioeconomic and health outcomes for Tongans that migrate to New Zealand via the Pacific Access Category (PAC). The PAC allows a quota of Tongans to immigrate each year, with a random ballot used to choose amongst the excess number of applicants. As part of this project, a unique survey was conducted in Tonga and New Zealand that allows experimental estimates of the impact of migration to be obtained by comparing outcomes for migrants to those for individuals who applied to migrate, but whose names were not drawn in the ballot. This survey also collected data from households that did not apply to the PAC, which allows for an examination of how Tongans who are interested in migrating to New Zealand differ from those that are not. Included among the outcomes that will be discussed are income, subjective wellbeing, happiness, stress, mental health, blood pressure, hypertension, diet, and child anthropometrics. Overall, the research finds large impacts on many dimensions of socioeconomic status and health even though the median migrant has been in New Zealand for only one year. Furthermore, Tongans who want to move to New Zealand differ along many dimensions from those that do not, and this complicated selection into migration invalidates the results from simple analytical approaches to examining the impact of migration, such as comparing outcomes for Tongan migrants in New Zealand to those for the New Zealand-born of Tongan ethnicity or to those for Tongans in Tonga.

Biography

Steven Stillman is an empirical labour economist, specialising in the behaviour of individuals and households. He received a PhD in Economics from the University of Washington in 2000 and is an affiliated research fellow at the Institute for the Study of Labor (IZA), the Centre for Research and Analysis of Migration (CReAM) and the William Davidson Institute. Before joining Motu in 2004, he worked as a senior research economist at the New Zealand Department of Labour and was a postdoctoral fellow at the RAND Corporation. In 2008- 2009 he was a visiting professor at the Chair for Statistics and Empirical Economic Research, University of Zurich.

Click here to download a printable flyer

You are here > Home / Events / Why Grandma is my Landlord: Population ageing, taxes, and their implications for the housing market

Why Grandma is my Landlord: Population ageing, taxes, and their implications for the housing market

Tuesday, 18 May 2010, 12:30pm to 2:00pm

Andrew Coleman, Motu Economic and Public Policy Research

Council Chamber, Auckland Town Hall, 301 Queen St (entrance under the clocktower)

Abstract

This seminar examines how current tax structures combined with increasing longevity may be behind some of the changes in the housing market experienced in the last two decades, such as rising prices, the increasing size of houses, and falling homeownership rates among young people. It argues that a fundamental rethink of the tax system and possibly the pension system may be needed to ensure people enjoy the benefits of increased longevity when they are young, as well as when they are old.

Biography

Andrew Coleman is a senior fellow at Motu Economic and Public Policy Research and was previously a senior adviser at the Reserve Bank of New Zealand. He earlier worked as an Assistant Professor of Economics at the University of Michigan, where he taught economic development and international finance. He has also worked at The New Zealand Treasury and the United Building Society. Andrew has a PhD from Princeton University.

Download a printable flyer (PDF 334 KB).

You are here > Home / Events / WALS model averaging

WALS model averaging

Tuesday, 04 May 2010, 12:30pm to 2:00pm

Level 12 Boardroom, Rutherford House, Pipitea Campus

Professor Jan Magnus from Tilburg University, the Netherlands is coming to visit us and Estate Khmaladze at the School of Mathematics, Statistics and Operations Research, Science. He is here for 4 days. He is also attached to the CentER, Tilburg, The Netherlands and has interests golf and the cello. He is widely published, and has been on several editorial boards.

Abstract:

Parameter estimation under model uncertainty is a difficult and fundamental issue in econometrics. One way to approach this problem (and hence to avoid the harmful pretest effect) is via model averaging. In model averaging all potential models play a role, but in varying degree of importance. We shall introduce a new method, calls weighted average least squares (WALS), and compare the performance with the dominant method (Bayesian model averaging - BMA). Our proposed method has two major advantages over BMA: its computational burden is trivial and it is based on a transparent definition of prior ignorance.

Background paper can be downloaded from:

http://cdata4.uvt.nl/websitefiles/magnus/paper90.pdf

You are here > Home / Events / Long memory in stock market volatilities

Long memory in stock market volatilities

Friday, 23 April 2010, 12:30pm to 2:00pm

SEF seminar, RH Level 12 boardroom

Speaker: Dr William (Bill) Rea, University of Canterbury, Christchurch.

ALL WELCOME

Tea and coffee available prior to the seminar.

As this is a lunchtime seminar you are welcome to bring your lunch.

You are here > Home / Events / Frontiers in economics teaching

Frontiers in economics teaching

Monday, 28 June 2010 to Tuesday, 29 June 2010

15th Annual Australasian Teaching Economics Conference. will be held in Hamilton, New Zealand, on 28-29 June 2010. Please note that this is the two days immediately prior to the New Zealand Association of Economists conference in Auckland.

The conference aims to enhance the quality of teaching and learning and promote the sharing of best practice within the economics discipline, by bringing together quality local and international speakers to share pedagogical research and advances in the teaching of economics at secondary and tertiary levels.

The theme for the 2010 conference is: “Frontiers in economics teaching”.

Whilst papers relating to the conference theme are encouraged, the organisers welcome submission of papers concerning all aspects of economic education.

The two-day program will consist of contributed papers, with a keynote presentation from Peter Kennedy (Simon Fraser University). Peter is a top econometrician and associate editor of the International Journal of Forecasting, Economics Bulletin, and the Journal of Economics Education. His plenary address will be titled: “Common mistakes made in classroom research.”

CALL FOR PAPERS

The ATEC 2009 Conference Committee invites submission of papers for the 2010 Conference, to be held in Hamilton, New Zealand on 28-29 June 2010.

Abstracts (150 words maximum) should be submitted via email directly to the Conference Committee at with the subject heading “ATEC 2010 abstract” by 31 March 2010.

Authors will be notified of acceptance by 15 April 2010. All papers accepted for presentation can be considered for publication in the refereed Conference Proceedings, and will go through a formal peer review process, provided a draft paper is submitted to the Conference Committee by 15 May 2010. Final versions for inclusion in the proceedings, incorporating referees’ comments, must be submitted by 15 June 2010.

CONFERENCE WEBSITE

Further details on the conference are available from the conference website: http://www.management.ac.nz/atec2010

We hope you will be able to join us in Hamilton in June 2010!

You are here > Home / Events / Political finance: International perspectives on New Zealand’s reforms

Political finance: International perspectives on New Zealand’s reforms

Friday, 14 May 2010, 8:40am to 12:15pm

Institute of Policy Studies (IPS) symposium presented in conjunction with the Law Faculty of the U of Otago.

Friday 14 May 2010 RW501 Level 5, Wellington Railway Station (West Wing)
8.40am to 12.15pm

The National-led government is in the process of reforming the regulation of political (or campaign) finance in New Zealand. The proposed reforms raise important constitutional and policy issues. To facilitate public discussion about these matters, the Institute of Policy Studies at Victoria University of Wellington and the Law Faculty of the University of Otago are co-hosting a symposium on Friday 14 May 2010. There is no charge for attendance, but as seating is limited please register your intention to attend.

To register your attendance:
Send your name and institutional affiliation (if any) to:
email: (please include the “political finance symposium” in the subject line of your email)
phone: (03) 479 8857
mail: Faculty of Law, University of Otago, PO Box 56, Dunedin

Programme

8.20-8:40:        Registration and coffee/tea
8:40-8:45:       Welcome by Jonathan Boston
8:45-9:00:       Andrew Geddis – New Zealand’s proposed new political finance  rules.
9:00-9:50:       Jacob Rowbottom – What lessons does the U.K.‘s experience have for New Zealand’s proposals?
9:50-10:40:     Colin Feasby – What lessons does Canada’s experience have for New Zealand’s proposals?
10:40-11:00: Coffee/Tea Break
11:00-12:15: Joo-Cheong Tham and Graeme Orr – What lessons does Australia’s experience have for New Zealand’s proposals?

Please note the Symposium will be followed by a seminar by Jacob Rowbottom entitled The British General Election and the Prospects for Electoral Reform

Speakers

Andrew Geddis is an Associate Professor at the University of Otago’s Faculty of Law. He is the author of Electoral Law in New Zealand: Practice and Policy (LexisNexis NZ Ltd, 2007), as well as numerous articles on matters of electoral finance reform in New Zealand and elsewhere. In 2008 the Government appointed him as chair of an expert panel to review electoral administration and political party funding.

Jacob Rowbottom is a Lecturer in Law at the University of Cambridge, and a Fellow of King’s College, Cambridge. He also acts as the Assistant Director of the Faculty of Law’s Centre for Public Law. He is the author of Democracy Distorted: Wealth, Influence and Democratic Politics (CUP, 2010), along with articles on campaign financing issues in the Modern Law Review, Public Law and the Law Quarterly Review. Additionally, he has provided written evidence on electoral finance issues to the House of Commons Constitutional Affairs Committee.

Colin Feasby is a partner in the Litigation Department of Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt, one of Canada’s largest and most respected law firms. He holds a SJD from Columbia Law School and has written extensively on matters of electoral finance regulation in journals such as the McGill Law Journal, Osgoode Hall Law Journal, and the Supreme Court Law Review. Canada’s Supreme Court has cited his academic work on numerous occasions in cases considering the constitutionality of electoral finance regulation.

Graeme Orr is a Reader at the University of Queensland’s TC Beirne School of Law. He is the author of a forthcoming book on Australian electoral law matters, and has published on electoral financing issues in the Election Law Journal, Federal Law Review and University of New South Wales Law Review.

Joo-Cheong Tham is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Melbourne Law School. He is is writing a book on Australian campaign finance law that will be published by UNSW Press in 2010, as well as having written a number of journal articles and book chapters on this topic. He has also given evidence to parliamentary inquiries into political finance law.

You are here > Home / Events / Critical global issues: China and climate change

Critical global issues: China and climate change

Monday, 17 May 2010 to Wednesday, 19 May 2010

A series of seminars co-hosted by the Institute of Policy Studies, the New Zealand Climate Change Research Institute and the New Zealand Contemporary China Research Centre, Victoria University of Wellington. RSVPs not required - all welcome.

DOWNLOAD FLYER (411KB)

You are here > Home / Events / Retirement Income Policy and Intergenerational Equity

Retirement Income Policy and Intergenerational Equity

Wednesday, 21 July 2010 to Thursday, 22 July 2010

Retirement income policy affects everyone. It also raises big issues and questions of fairness, adequacy and intergenerational equity.

This year, the Retirement Commissioner is carrying out the three-yearly review of retirement income policies. To contribute to this work, the Institute of Policy Studies, in conjunction with the Commissioner, is organising a conference to discuss retirement income policy from an intergenerational perspective. The Treasury report “Challenges and Choices: New Zealand’s Long-term Fiscal Statement”, released in October last year, is relevant context for the conference.

The conference will provide a platform for experts from New Zealand and overseas who will set out the key issues and lead discussions on how these issues may be addressed. Keynote speakers will be Professor Kent Weaver of Georgetown University, USA, and Professor Peter Whiteford of the Social Policy Research Centre at the University of New South Wales.

KEYNOTE SPEAKERS

Professor Kent Weaver
Kent Weaver is Professor of Public Policy and Government at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. Before coming to Georgetown, he spent almost two decades at the Brookings Institution, a Washington think tank. His major fields of interest are American and comparative social policy, comparative political institutions, and policy implementation. Much of his work has attempted to understand when and why politicians undertake actions that appear to offer more political risks than rewards, and how they attempt to avoid blame when they do so. He is currently completing a book on what the United States can learn from the experiences of other advanced industrial countries in reforming their public pension systems. He received his Ph.D in Political Science from Harvard University.

Professor Peter Whiteford
Peter Whiteford is an expert on social security policy, particularly pension policies, family assistance policies, and welfare reform. His research has concentrated on international comparisons of systems of social protection and comparisons of poverty and income distribution, and his areas of interest include: Child poverty; family policy; international comparisons of income inequality and poverty; comparative social policy and the welfare state; reconciliation of work and family life; lone parenthood and joblessness among families with children; social policy and the life course; social assistance policies; pension policies; social policy and income disparities in China; Australian social policy, especially social security policy. In July 2008, he was appointed by the Australian government to the Reference Group for the Review of the Australian pension system.

Download detailed seminar information

You are here > Home / Events / Matching Educational Levels with Jobs

Matching Educational Levels with Jobs

Friday, 30 April 2010, 12:30pm to 2:00pm

Presenter: Professor Jean Renaud, University of Montreal

Location: Spectrum Theatre, 20 Customhouse Quay (entrance on Johnson St)

Abstract

The objective of this study was to identify the factors most likely to predict quicker and more successful job integration, with a focus on factors awarded points in immigration applications. The indicators used to measure successful job integration were (1) speed of obtaining first job and (2) speed of access to a job of equal or greater skill than the individual’s education up to the time of immigration (“skilled job”). The factors analysed were initially those awarded points, then an expanded range of variables such as demographic information, French language ability, education, contextual factors (economic situation), and other mixed factors.

Biography

Jean Renaud is a Professor in the Sociology Department at the University of Montreal. From 1996 to 2006 he was also Director of the Center for Ethnic Studies at the University of Montreal, a large interdisciplinary research center on ethnicity and immigration. In cooperation with the province of the Quebec Department of Immigration, he conducted three longitudinal surveys of new immigrants, the largest one being a four wave panel study following a cohort from 1989 to 2000. He has authored numerous publications focusing on the economic settlement of new immigrants, on the role of language and language learning, and on the role of discrimination in settlement processes. Professor Renaud currently acts as consultant for the Quebec and Canadian Departments of Immigration.

This seminar is hosted by the Department of Labour. RSVPs are not required; feel free to turn up on the day.

You are here > Home / Events / 51st New Zealand Association of Economists Annual Conference

51st New Zealand Association of Economists Annual Conference

Wednesday, 30 June 2010

Registration for the 51st New Zealand Association of Economists annual conference, to be held in cooperation with the Law and Economics Association of New Zealand, is now open.

Early Bird Registration

We encourage you to register early to take advantage of our Early-Bird rates. Registration is to be carried out online, and the form can be accessed directly by clicking on the following link:

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Alternatively, you can navigate through the NZAE website (http://www.nzae.org.nz) to the online registration form.

Important dates to note are:
• Sunday 28 March Registration opens
• Thursday 13 May Early-bird registration closes
• Thursday 17 June Standard registration closes
• Wednesday 30 June Conference begins

Registration prices are as follows:

Registration Type	Member	Non-Member	Student
FULL CONFERENCE
Early-bird	$460	$590	$250
Standard	$560	$690	$250
Late	$660	$790	$250
DAILY RATES
Wednesday	$245	$310	$245
Thursday	$245	$310	$245
Friday	$185	$250	$185

Please note that attendance at the conference dinner is not included in the above costs, and will be an additional $90 per person. Accommodation MUST be booked separately by individual delegates.

Payment is available online via Visa, Mastercard or a PayPal account.

For further information, please head to the NZAE Website or contact one of the following:Dr Bill Kaye-Blake or Teresa Cunningham

NZAE Organising Committee Conference Administrator

Phone: 64 3 321 8274 Phone: 64 3 321 8280

Fax: 64 3 325 3679 Fax: 64 3 325 3679

Email:

You are here > Home / Events / How Important Is the New Goods Margin in International Trade?

How Important Is the New Goods Margin in International Trade?

Monday, 22 March 2010, 11:30pm to 1:30pm

Professor Tim Kehoe

Lecture Theatre 3, Ground floor, Rutherford House.

The School of Economics and Finance are pleased to announce that the next SEF Seminar for 2010 will be held on MONDAY 22 March, at 11.30-1.30pm in RHLT3. All Welcome.

Guest speaker and presenter:

Professor Timothy J. Kehoe
University of Minnesota,
Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis,
and National Bureau of Economic Research, USA

Professor Timothy (Tim) Kehoe received his PhD from Yale University. He teaches in the areas of general equilibrium theory, international trade and public finance. Professor Kehoe’s current research includes intertemporal general equilibrium theory and applied general equilibrium modelling. Professor Kehoe is a Distinguished McKnight Professor and currently with the Department of Economics at University of Minnesota, USA.

(with Kim J. Ruhl - Stern School of Business, New York University)

ABSTRACT
We propose a methodology for studying changes in bilateral trade due to countries exporting goods that they did not export previously or exported only in small quantities. Applying this methodology to country pairs that undergo trade liberalization and to pairs in which one of the countries undergoes significant structural transformation, we find large increases on this extensive - or new goods - margin. Looking at country pairs with no major trade policy change or structural change, however, we find little or no increases on the extensive margin. Studying time series on trade by commodity, we find that data from before 1988 and 1989, when most major trading countries moved to the Harmonized System, are not compatible with data from afterward.

Note the different time to usual seminars: 11.30 - 1.30pm.

You are here > Home / Events / AMW 2010 15th Australasian Macroeconomics Workshop

AMW 2010 15th Australasian Macroeconomics Workshop

Thursday, 08 April 2010 to Friday, 09 April 2010

More info at http://www.rbnz.govt.nz/research/workshops/AMW2010/index.html

You are here > Home / Events / General anti-avoidance rules and double tax agreements: A New Zealand perspective

General anti-avoidance rules and double tax agreements: A New Zealand perspective

Wednesday, 24 March 2010, 5:30pm to 7:00pm

Professor Craig Elliffe, Chair of the Department of Commercial Law at the University of Auckland.

Lecture Theatre 2, Rutherford House, Victoria University of Wellington, 23 Lambton Quay, Wellington.

Often for tax purposes, different countries treat a transaction in ways that are quite inconsistent. Recently, the New Zealand High Court in Westpac Banking Corporation v Commissioner of Inland Revenue, considered the tax consequences of a structured finance transaction with cross-border implications, and upheld the “process, known as tax arbitrage” terming it “a settled feature of international financing arrangements.” The phenomenon offers significant potential for tax planning and opportunities for tax avoidance.

The seminar will consider the effectiveness of the general anti-avoidance rule (GAAR) in the New Zealand Income Tax Act in the context of cross-border transactions or arrangements. A vital issue is about the impact of double tax agreements on an international transaction or arrangement when the tax authorities invoke the GAAR.

The invitation to the seminar is available here. Please feel free to forward the invitation to interested parties within your organisation.

Please RSVP attendance for catering purposes by latest Tuesday 23 March. Light refreshments will be available after the seminar.

Centre for Accounting, Governance and Taxation Research Business Links Seminar.

You are here > Home / Events / Microdata for Policy Research: Lessons from the UK experience

Microdata for Policy Research: Lessons from the UK experience

Tuesday, 23 March 2010, 12:30pm to 2:00pm

Dr Felix Ritchie, Office for National Statistics, UK

Spectrum Presentation Theatre, BP House, 20 Customhouse Quay, Wellington

Abstract

The UK’s use of microdata for policy research has expanded significantly in the last ten years. The requirements for evidence-based policy, along with developments in access to confidential data, have helped the UK to develop a robust, generic infrastructure for research. This presentation discusses the use and impact of microdata on policy in recent years, focusing on the use of confidential business data. It discusses how the infrastructure was developed, showing how the needs of the user community fed into development. Finally, it reviews some of the problems faced currently, including the need to avoid seeing microdata as a panacea; and tries to draw together lessons learned from the UK.

Biography

Felix Ritchie is currently senior microeconomist and Head of Microdata Analysis and User Support at the UK Office of National Statistics. He was responsible for the concept, design, and development of ONS’s Virtual Microdata Laboratory (VML) in 2004. The VML quickly became noted for its principles-based approach to all aspects of research management, and continues to be at the forefront of development in secure access to confidential data. Prior to joining ONS, Felix was a programmer, electricity analyst, lecturer at the University of Stirling, head of IT for a German labour economics research institute, and operations manager for a small IT company. Felix writes regularly on the management of research and research facilities, and on statistical disclosure control, as well as working in labour and productivity economics.

Download a printable flyer for this event.

You are here > Home / Events / Reform in Paradise II

Reform in Paradise II

Wednesday, 02 June 2010 to Thursday, 03 June 2010

Environmental Defence Society (EDS), national conference.

Location: Aotea Centre, Auckland

This conference builds on the success of last year’s event and examine key elements of the government’s environmental reform agenda. The conference will seek to provide constructive feedback on key policy decisions.

Reform in Paradise II will explore how the reforms can be harnessed to support a greening of the economy and better environmental outcomes.

Recently there have been suggestions that we should broaden the “100% Pure New Zealand” tourism brand to market the entire country overseas. If such a move was linked with policies to support a greening of the economy, this could result in positive outcomes for New Zealand’s environment and economy. If we fail to improve our environmental performance then the integrity of that brand will come under increasing scrutiny in our markets.

Speakers will unpack the key elements of a green economy and explore future trends in international markets. Sessions will then critically evaluate the planned changes in environmental management. Workshops for resource management professionals will examine whether the reforms might be better designed to avoid lowering our environmental standards.
The EDS annual conference is now well-established as a high quality and stimulating national event. Reform in Paradise II will be a ‘must attend’ event for all those with an interest in resource use and who want a better future for New Zealand.

See the conference website for updates http://www.edsconference.com.

You are here > Home / Events / Climate Change and Sustainability Science: A Science, Technology and Society Perspective

Climate Change and Sustainability Science: A Science, Technology and Society Perspective

Monday, 08 March 2010, 8:30am to 4:00pm

Chancellor 2 Room , Level 16, James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor, 147 The Terrace, Wellington.

This event will look at climate change and sustainability research through the lens of Science, Technology and Society (STS) studies. Our interest is in critical reflection about the wider climate change research agenda, and the implications this has for future directions in science, including trans-disciplinary research and sustainability science. We are also interested in highlighting the importance of social science to climate change analysis and policy, and the links between science and economic transformation. Our hope is that this meeting will be an initial forum that stimulates further discussion among scientists, government and industry. We are inviting 40 participants (biophysical and social scientists, policy officials and industry leaders) with an interest in sustainable technologies.

For more information, visit the website: www.esr.cri.nz/asiapacificstsnetwork.

The workshop is organised by Environmental Science and Research (ESR) and Landcare Research with the support of the Climate Change Research Institute, School of Government, Victoria University of Wellington.

Downloadable information:

Flier with programme (.pdf KB)

Registration form (.pdf 117KB)

Bionote re Prof Ian Lowe (.pdf 30KB)

Climate change, SS and STS background note (.pdf 13KB)

There is no workshop fee but registration is essential. RSVP to by Monday 1 March 2010.

You are here > Home / Events / Why involve citizens in actions on climate change?

Why involve citizens in actions on climate change?

Wednesday, 17 March 2010, 12:00pm to 1:00pm

Chair in e-Government, School of Information Management and the School of Government invite you to a public seminar:

Why involve citizens in actions on climate change? The Danish CIDEA project and how it relates to climate change action programmes in New Zealand and Australia.

Presenater: Professor Jens Hoff

The Citizen Driven Environmental Action Project (CIDEA) is a four year research project funded by the Danish Strategic Research Council. The aim of the project is to help Danish municipalities engage their local community in efforts to effectively reduce its “carbon footprints”. As local councils in NZ and Australia have experiences along these lines through their participation in the CCP-Programme, there are lessons to be learned by scrutinizing this project.

DOWNLOAD PRINTABLE FLIER (.pdf 36KB).

Location: Lecture Theatre 1, Government Buildings, 15 Lambton Quay, Victoria University

Please RSVP to by Friday 12 March 2010.

You are here > Home / Events / Fractured Science and the Politics of Climate Change

Fractured Science and the Politics of Climate Change

Friday, 19 March 2010, 12:15pm to 1:15pm

Dr. Barry Smit

Professor of Geography, Canada Research Chair in Global Environmental Change, University of Guelph

Old Government Buildings Lecture Theatre 2, Victoria University.

This presentation addresses the physical and human forces underlying climate change and its implications for the environment and development. The roles of science and politics in national and international policy responses are outlined - mitigation and adaptation. Examples are given of adaptation initiatives in regions ranging from the Arctic to Bangladesh and Nigeria to Chile. The needs and opportunities for truly interdisciplinary science and practice are presented.

Barry Smit is internationally recognized for his work on climate change impacts and adaptation. He is a scientist-practitioner whose interdisciplinary research explores the relationships between socio-economic systems and physical-biological systems. His work has been applied in Bangladesh, Vietnam, Samoa, Fiji, Chile, Ghana, Uganda and the Arctic. He has advised governments and organizations across Canada and internationally. He has served on the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), and is a co-recipient of the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize.

This talk is sponsored by the Association for Canadian Studies in Australia and New Zealand (ACSANZ) and the Government of Canada.

No RSVP is required.

Download printable flier (.pdf 597 KB).

You are here > Home / Events / Social Norms and the Problem of the Commons

Social Norms and the Problem of the Commons

Thursday, 04 March 2010, 12:30pm to 2:00pm

Professor E. Somanathan, Indian Statistical Institute

Abstract

This talk will discuss the ‘tragedy’ of the commons—how the absence of private property rights in resources leads to their over-exploitation. It examines ways in which the tragedy can be overcome: privatisation, government regulation or taxation, negotiated agreements, and selfgovernance backed by social norms. It will be seen that the last solution throws some light on the evolution of human ‘moral sentiments’.

Biography

Dr E. Somanathan is a professor and head of the Planning Unit at the Indian Statistical Institute. His research interests include evolutionary models of behaviour, focussed on environmental and development economics. Professor Somanathan received his PhD from Harvard University.

Download a printable flyer

Professor E. Somanathan has been invited to Motu as part of our FoRST-funded programme ‘Cooperation and Coordination’. This programme will provide empirical evidence and a clear conceptual framework to encourage cooperation, enabling the Emissions Trading System (ETS) to be applied effectively in agriculture.

You are here > Home / Events / Pension Forum: New Zealand superannuation and overseas pensions - issues and principles for reform

Pension Forum: New Zealand superannuation and overseas pensions - issues and principles for reform

Wednesday, 24 February 2010, 1:00pm to 5:00pm

The University of Auckland Retirement and Policy Research Centre with the the Human Rights Commission.

Case Room 3, level 0, Owen G. Glenn Building, 12 Grafton Road, Auckland

About the forum

Abatement of their overseas retirement pensions has caused distress for many New Zealand immigrants, as expressed in complaints to the Human Rights Commission (HRC), the Courts, the Ministry of Social Development (MSD), the Retirement Policy and Research Centre (RPRC), the embassies of the countries in which the pensions originate, and in the media. The HRC has assisted in funding the RPRC to produce research on the historical and current legislative and policy frameworks surrounding entitlement to and abatement of New Zealand Superannuation (NZS). The 2-07 paper surveys complaints of unfair treatment; and critiques the latest official reports and current policy in light of these complaints. The 1-09 paper analyses how the principles governing the pension structures in different countries are communicated and perceived. The 2-09 paper suggests a policy framework based on principles of equity; transparency; sustainability; economic efficiency; and administrative simplicity. It also suggests options for enduring and appropriate policies for treatment of overseas pensions given rapid population ageing and increased global integration. These policy options, which are also set out in the Executive Summary of the working paper, are to be debated at the Forum.

The Forum will serve multiple purposes:

1) Launching the RPRC/HRC Working Papers: 2009/1 Literature Review; and 2009/2 New Zealand Superannuation and Overseas Pensions: Issues and Principles for Reform;
2) Discussing an appropriate interpretation of overseas pensions ie state-funded vs individually funded/earnings related pensions; and
3) Debating the merits of the proposed Options 1 and 2 for a fairer treatment of overseas pensions and NZS; and determine a preferred option.
4) Developing a contact list for future collection of individual’s stories/experiences;
5) In the final Forum session, the attendees can decide their next steps in promoting change to more equitable pension policy.
About the Retirement Policy and Research Centre (RPRC)

Retirement and Policy Research Centre (RPRC)

The RPRC is an independent, academically focused centre specialising in the economic issues of demographic change. The RPRC’s sphere of interest includes:

public and private provision of retirement income;
the accumulation and decumulation phases of retirement saving;
accident compensation;
tax and transfer policy. Click here for more information about the RPRC.

About the Human Rights Commission (HRC)

The HRC works for a fair, safe and just society, where diversity is valued and human rights are respected. The HRC’s sphere of interest includes:
civil, political, social, cultural and economic rights;
everyone is equally entitled to human rights without discrimination;
encouraging harmonious relationships between individuals and among the diverse groups in New Zealand society.
There is more information on the HRC here.

DOWNLOAD INFO AND REGISTRATION FORM (.pdf 46KB). Please return to .

You are here > Home / Events / Reflections on the Report by the Tax Working Group

Reflections on the Report by the Tax Working Group

Thursday, 25 February 2010, 5:30pm to 6:30pm

In conjunction with The University of Auckland, the CAGTR and ISCR are pleased to announce a Guest Seminar on Taxation.

Presenter: Professor John Creedy, Truby Williams Professor of Economics, The University of Melbourne
Commentator: Geof Nightingale, Partner, PricewaterhouseCoopers and member of the Tax Working Group

Title: Reflections on the Report by the Tax Working Group

Date: Thursday, 25 February 2010
Time: 5.30-6.30 pm (followed by refreshments)
Venue: Case Room 3, Level O, Owen G Glenn Building, The University of Auckland Business School, Grafton Road, Auckland

Please RSVP to Ms. Chye-Ching Huang, Sr. Lecturer, Department of Commercial Law (ph.09 373 7599 ext. 81644)

Further information about this seminar is available here.

You are here > Home / Events / Whither the tax system in New Zealand: reflections on the TWG Report.

Whither the tax system in New Zealand: reflections on the TWG Report.

Tuesday, 23 February 2010, 1:30pm to 3:00pm

Jointly sponsored by the Treasury and the CAGTR and ISCR at Victoria University of Wellington, the next Treasury Guest Lecturer is Professor John Creedy who will be presenting
Whither the tax system in New Zealand: reflections on the TWG Report.

Date: Tuesday 23 February 2010
Time: 1.30 pm-3 pm
Venue: Level 5 meeting room, Treasury, 1 The Terrace, Wellington

Please RSVP (for seating purposes) to Lyn Crossley by Friday 19 February 2010.

Further information on the lecture is available here (.pdf)

Further information on Professor Creedy is available here.

You are here > Home / Events / Climate Change and New Zealand’s Future

Climate Change and New Zealand’s Future

Friday, 29 January 2010, 12:00pm to 1:00pm

Public Panel Discussion

Rutherford House Lecture Theatre 1, Victoria University, 23 Lambton Quay (access Bunny St).

A panel of experts from Victoria University, NIWA, and GNS Science answer and discuss questions on current and future challenges of climate change on NZ’s society, economy and environment, and governmental strategies for adaptation and mitigation.

The discussion is complemented by a special poster exhibition presented by Victoria University students.

Entry is free.

If you have any questions regarding the discussion please contact Nancy Bertler .

You are here > Home / Events / Short courses on research methods and technology (The New Zealand Social Statistics Network)

Short courses on research methods and technology (The New Zealand Social Statistics Network)

Monday, 08 February 2010 to Thursday, 25 February 2010

The New Zealand Social Statistics Network is planning to offer the following short courses at the School of Government, Pipitea Campus, Victoria University of Wellington, over the two weeks 8th-19th February 2010.

Early-Bird cutoff is 27 November 2009. Details are subject to change based on enrolments.

For the most up-to-date information please check http://www.nzssn.org.nz .

Any enquiries, email .

Week One
INTRODUCTION TO STATISTICS: 8th - 12th February 2010 Dr Wiremu Solomon, Departments of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Auckland An introductory course in statistical techniques with an emphasis on those applicable to the social sciences.

QUALITATIVE RESEARCH TECHNIQUES: 8th - 12th February 2010 Dr Delwyn Goodrick, Program Evaluation Consultant An introductory course consisting of lectures and practical workshops, designed for those with no background in research or with no previous experience with qualitative techniques of data collection and analysis.

CASE STUDY RESEARCH: 8th - 12th February 2010 Professor Helen Simons, Professor of Education and Evaluation, University of Southampton, UK An introductory course exploring the theory and practice of case study as a research approach for understanding and evaluating the complexity of innovative programs and organisations.

INTRODUCTION TO STRUCTURAL EQUATION MODELLING USING AMOS: 8th - 12th February 2010 Associate Professor Everarda Cunningham, Swinburne University of Technology An intermediate course designed as an applied introduction (using SPSS’s AMOS(tm) software) to the use of structural equation modelling (SEM). SEM is used to find and test complex relationships among variables.

ADVANCED ANALYSIS OF LINKED HEALTH DATA: 8th - 12th February 2010 Professor D’Arcy Holman, University of Western Australia A course designed to instruct participants in the theory and practice of analysis of large sets of linked administrative health data at an advanced level. Includes both theoretical grounding and hands-on computer-lab exercises.

Week Two
DATA ANALYSIS IN SPSS: 15th - 19th February 2010 Associate Professor Brian Phillips, Swinburne University of Technology This course provides the beginner in quantitative data analysis with the basic requirements for analysis in an SPSS computing environment, focusing on the analysis of survey, administrative and/or census data.

INTERMEDIATE STATISTICS: 15th - 19th February 2010 Mr Mike Forster, Department of Statistics, The University of Auckland An introduction to the statistical computing package R, a review of the concepts of statistical inference from Introduction to Statistics, and case studies in statistics.

INTRODUCTION TO NVivo: 15th - 19th February 2010 Dr Leonie Daws, Principal Consultant, Kihi Consultancies A course designed for those familiar with qualitative research approaches and interested in using NVivo to assist with qualitative data analysis. The focus is on learning the NVivo data analysis toolkit through hands-on experience.

INTRODUCTION TO PROGRAM EVALUATION: 15th - 19th February 2010 Dr Delwyn Goodrick, Program Evaluation Consultant A course designed for public sector workers and academics who are interested in commissioning, managing or conducting evaluations of public policy or programs.

INTRODUCTION TO SURVEY DESIGN: 15th - 19th February 2010 Dr Gordon Emmerson, Victoria University of Technology An introductory course providing participants with underlying theory and best practice in quantitative survey design.

RESEARCH SYNTHESIS FOR POLICY AND PRACTICE:
Wellington 15th - 18th February 2010 (4 days) & Auckland 22nd - 25th February 2010 (4 days) Professor David Gough, EPPI-Centre, University of London A range of approaches to research synthesis are covered. Systematic reviews can address a broad range of research questions, and research reviews, and like all research projects, they must be appraised for strengths and weaknesses.

For more information see www.nzssn.org.nz

You are here > Home / Events / Trade and consumer vs producer accounting for GHGs at the national level

Trade and consumer vs producer accounting for GHGs at the national level

Tuesday, 15 December 2009, 12:15pm to 1:30pm

Dr Glen Peters, Center for International Climate and Environmental Research - Oslo (CICERO), Norway

MAF, the Terrace, Wellington 15th Dec, 2009 12.15 - 1.30, level 3.3 Go to level 10 first.

Abstract

International trade separates the consumption of products in one country from the country producing those products and consequently emitting greenhouse gases. Considering emission drivers from the point of consumption recognizes the importance of consumption and the global production network. Around one-quarter of global emissions are from the production of traded products with a general trend that Annex B (developed) countries are net importers of carbon dioxide emissions via international trade while non-Annex B (developing) countries are net exports of carbon dioxide emissions. Small countries are more dependent on international trade and consequently often have a large share of their emissions from the production and consumption of internationally traded products. Despite stabilization of carbon dioxide emissions in Annex B countries since 1990, globally emissions have increased about 35%. Consumption in Annex B countries is responsible for around one-quarter to one-third of the growth in global emissions in recent years. The biggest sources of the growth are exports from China directly to Annex B countries and indirectly via trade with other non-Annex B countries. The results clearly show a systematic out-sourcing of emissions from Annex B to non-Annex B countries. Irrespective of whether the outsourcing is due to climate policy or prevailing global economic conditions, regular quantification is needed on how the global trading system causes a redistribution of responsibility between consumers and producers over time. Regular quantification is necessary for the design and implementation of efficient climate policy in an increasingly globalized world.

You are here > Home / Events / Panel discussion: the outcome and implications of Copenhagen

Panel discussion: the outcome and implications of Copenhagen

Tuesday, 22 December 2009, 12:30pm to 1:30pm

Panel discussion on the outcomes and implications of this year’s Copenhagen conference

Lecture Theatre 1, Old Government Buildings

Panel members:

Associate Professor Ralph Chapman School of Geography, Environment and Earth Sciences VUW
Professor Martin Manning NZ Climate Change Research Institute, VUW
Peter Neilsen, NZ Business Council for Sustainable Development
Dr Beat Nobs Embassy of Switzerland
Phil O’Reilly, Business NZ
Professor Ralph Sims Massey University
Cath Wallace School of Government, VUW.

Please download the Copenhagen 2009 information sheet (PDF 231KB) for information on the full series (this is the final session in this series).

See the IPS website http://ips.ac.nz/events/Upcoming%20events/index.html.

You are here > Home / Events / The case for an independent advisory committee on climate change

The case for an independent advisory committee on climate change

Friday, 18 December 2009, 12:30pm to 1:30pm

Lecture Theatre 1,

Old Government Buildings.Peter Wilson, Vector Ltd

Peter Wilson is the Group Manager Climate Change for Vector Limited. An economist by training, he previously served in the NZ Treasury and was a member of the Emissions Trading Group.

Please download the Copenhagen 2009 information sheet (PDF 231KB) for information on the full series.

See the IPS website http://ips.ac.nz/events/Upcoming%20events/index.html.

You are here > Home / Events / Allocating the burdens of dealing with climate change

Allocating the burdens of dealing with climate change

Wednesday, 16 December 2009, 12:30pm to 1:30pm

Dr David Eng

Lecture Theatre 1, Old Government Buildings

Dr David Eng is a Lecturer in Philosophy at VUW. He has previously been an Assistant Professor at California State University Bakersfield and worked for several years for the Tertiary Education Commission. His research interests include epistemology, philosophy of mind, and aesthetics.

Please download the Copenhagen 2009 information sheet (PDF 231KB) for information on the full series.

See the IPS website http://ips.ac.nz/events/Upcoming%20events/index.html.

You are here > Home / Events / The relationship between climate change and other global sustainability issues

The relationship between climate change and other global sustainability issues

Wednesday, 09 December 2009, 12:30pm to 1:30pm

Dr Morgan Williams
Former Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment.

Lecture Theatre 1, Old Government Buildings

Dr Morgan Williams is Principal, Future Steps and an Adjunct Professor at the Universities of Canterbury and Queensland. He was the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment between 1997 and 2007. He has extensive experience in agricultural, environmental, pest and ecological research and policy, and currently contributes to a systems thinking for a sustainability degree course in Queensland.

Please download the Copenhagen 2009 information sheet (PDF 231KB) for information on the full series.

See the IPS website http://ips.ac.nz/events/Upcoming%20events/index.html.

You are here > Home / Events / Economic geography, globalisation and New Zealand’s productivity paradox

Economic geography, globalisation and New Zealand’s productivity paradox

Wednesday, 02 December 2009, 12:30pm to 2:00pm

Professor Philip McCann, University of Groningen and University of Waikato

Spectrum Theatre, 20 Customhouse Quay (entrance on Johnston St)

Abstract

This paper examines New Zealand’s poor productivity performance from the reform period onwards from the perspective of economic geography. Rather than employing institutional or free-market versus interventionist arguments to explain New Zealand’s low productivity, as is usually the case, the argument developed here is that the debate should be considered from a very different viewpoint. If we adopt an economic geography perspective, there is nothing really paradoxical about New Zealand’s productivity performance. As such, New Zealand’s productivity performance is rather more of a conundrum, a riddle, with a fairly straightforward solution. Possible policy responses will also be discussed.

Biography

Philip McCann is Professor of Economic Geography at the University of Groningen, The Netherlands, and also Professor of Economics at the University of Waikato. Philip is one of the world’s most highly cited spatial economists and economic geographers of his generation and has won various international awards and accolades for his research. Professor McCann has published some one hundred books, journal articles and book chapters in a range of economics, regional science, >and engineering journals. His book Urban and Regional Economics, 2001, Oxford University Press is the world’s best-selling book in the field, is used in over twenty countries, and has already been translated into Greek, Korean, Japanese and Chinese. In addition, two of Professor McCann’s other books have been translated into Japanese.

Download a printable flyer (PDF 502 KB).

You are here > Home / Events / Economic geography, globalisation and New Zealand’s productivity paradox

Economic geography, globalisation and New Zealand’s productivity paradox

Tuesday, 01 December 2009, 12:30pm to 2:00pm

Professor Philip McCann, University of Groningen and University of Waikato

Reception Lounge, Auckland Town Hall, 301 Queen St

Abstract

This paper examines New Zealand’s poor productivity performance from the reform period onwards from the perspective of economic geography. Rather than employing institutional or free-market versus interventionist arguments to explain New Zealand’s low productivity, as is usually the case, the argument developed here is that the debate should be considered from a very different viewpoint. If we adopt an economic geography perspective, there is nothing really paradoxical about New Zealand’s productivity performance. As such, New Zealand’s productivity performance is rather more of a conundrum, a riddle, with a fairly straightforward solution. Possible policy responses will also be discussed.

Biography

Philip McCann is Professor of Economic Geography at the University of Groningen, The Netherlands, and also Professor of Economics at the University of Waikato. Philip is one of the world’s most highly cited spatial economists and economic geographers of his generation and has won various international awards and accolades for his research. Professor McCann has published some one hundred books, journal articles and book chapters in a range of economics, regional science, and engineering journals. His book Urban and Regional Economics, 2001, Oxford University Press is the world’s best-selling book in the field, is used in over twenty countries, and has already been translated into Greek, Korean, Japanese and Chinese. In addition, two of Professor McCann’s other books have been translated into Japanese.

Download a printable flyer (PDF 447KB)

You are here > Home / Events / The financial reporting framework. New direction! Right direction?

The financial reporting framework. New direction! Right direction?

Wednesday, 18 November 2009, 7:30am to 9:00am

Lecture Theatre 2, Government Buildings, Victoria University of Wellington, Pipitea Campus.

Speakers: Mark Hucklesby, Kevin Simpkins and Ken Warren.

Organised by the Centre for Accounting, Governance and Taxation Research.

Click here for a detailed invitation to the seminar (PDF 102KB).

You are here > Home / Events / Big Issues in the Future of Schooling in New Zealand

Big Issues in the Future of Schooling in New Zealand

Thursday, 29 October 2009, 12:30pm to 2:00pm

Michael Mintrom, Professor John Hattie and Lynda Reid

Women’s Federation Room, Level 1, Old Government House, near the corner of Princes Street and Waterloo Quadrant

Abstract

Quality education is vital for ensuring the future success of individual students and for whole societies. New Zealand’s system of schooling is recognised internationally for producing students who, on average, perform well on standardised achievement tests. However, there are some worrying performances discrepancies. For many years, questions have been raised concerning how to develop approaches to schooling that increase overall student performance and also close the gaps between our highest and lowest achieving students. This seminar will consider both the current situation in New Zealand schooling and how future policy settings could promote better outcomes for individual students and for society in general.

Biographies

Associate Professor Michael Mintrom, Chair, teaches in the Department of Political Studies at The University of Auckland and is the coordinator of the Master of Public Policy degree. He has published widely on political leadership and the politics of educational change.

Professor John Hattie, Faculty of Education, The University of Auckland, is a world authority on the testing of student achievement. He is the author of many books including Visible Learning: A Synthesis of Over 800 Meta-Analyses Relating to Achievement, published by Routledge in 2008.

Lynda Reid is the principal of St. Cuthbert’s College, an independent school for girls catering for years 1-13, and well-regarded for the quality of its educational programmes. She serves on a range of advisory boards and is an executive board member of the New Zealand Institute.

You are here > Home / Events / Is serious cost-benefit analysis dead? The current Australian experience

Is serious cost-benefit analysis dead? The current Australian experience

Wednesday, 28 October 2009, 1:30pm

Treasury guest lecture Henry Ergas

Level 5 large meeting room, The Treasury

Please RSVP to Lisa-Marie Cowley prior to Monday 26th October: phone +64 4 917 6253, email

For further information on this seminar, please click here.

You are here > Home / Events / Labour productivity in Auckland firms: There’s something about the city

Labour productivity in Auckland firms: There’s something about the city

Thursday, 29 October 2009, 12:30pm to 2:00pm

Dave Maré, Motu Economic and Public Policy Research

Spectrum Presentation Theatre, BP House, 20 Customhouse Quay, Wellington

Abstract

The performance of the Auckland economy has attracted a good deal of attention lately - by some as a problem to be solved, and by others as the key to New Zealand’s prosperity. In this presentation, Dave Maré discusses his recent research on the extent and nature of Auckland’s relatively high productivity compared with the rest of the country, and the relationship between productivity and employment density. He also examines inter-industry variation in location patterns, and what it may tell us about the potential sources of the Auckland productivity premium. He discusses the relevance of his findings for policies aimed at raising Auckland’s performance and generating an ‘Auckland dividend’ for New Zealand.

Biography

Dave has been a Senior Fellow at Motu since 2000. Prior to that, he was a researcher at the Department of Labour. Dave gained his PhD in Economics at Harvard University in1995, specialising in Labour Economics and Urban Economics. His current research interests include the economics of immigration, the economic performance of cities, and patterns of labour market adjustment - for individuals and in aggregate.

Click here to download a printable flyer (PDF, 213 KB).

You are here > Home / Events / International migration in uncertain times conference

International migration in uncertain times conference

Monday, 02 November 2009 to Wednesday, 04 November 2009

Te Papa

As can be seen from the attached draft programme, we have an interesting line up of speakers in Canada, Australia Samoa, Tonga, Vanuatu and New Zealand. There will be a mix of keynote addresses and presentations by researchers in universities, government departments and the private sector.

Themes covered in this year’s conference include:

1. Economic impacts of immigration: international and New Zealand experiences

2. Integration of immigrants in New Zealand and Australia

3. International migration and the recession

4. Longitudinal surveys of immigration: NZ, Australian and Canadian perspectives

5. Evaluating policy: immigrants, seasonal workers and international students \

6. Seasonal migration of Pacific workers: Pacific perspectives

7. Seasonal migration of pacific workers: evidence from recent research and evaluations 8. Irregular, undocumented and refugee research: international and national perspectives 9. Climate change and migration in the Asia-Pacific region.

Download draft programme for the Pathways conference

Download registration form. There is no registration fee but we do need to get details of those attending for catering purposes. We would be grateful if you could return the registration form to Muriaroha Muntz () by Friday 16 October.

You are here > Home / Events / Microeconomics of organisational structure

Microeconomics of organisational structure

Thursday, 12 November 2009 to Friday, 13 November 2009

Two-day workshop at Massey University Auckland, Albany campus

The workshop includes guest lectures by Professor Guido Friebel

Guido Friebel is Professor in the Department of Economics and Business Administration at the Goethe University of Frankfurt in Germany. Before joining Goethe University, he was employed at SITE, Stockholm School of Economics and at the EHESS, Toulouse School of Economics. His primary areas of research are organizations, incentives for teams and individuals, human capital and migration decisions. Among others, he has published in American Economic Journal (Micro), Economic Journal, Journal of Labor Economics, Journal of the European Economic Association, and Rand Journal of Economics.

ABOUT Organizational Structure

Since the seminal work of Alfred Chandler, management scholars and business historians have been aware of the crucial role of organizational structure for incentives and coordination. Departing in a controlled way from the mechanism-design approach to organizations, microeconomists have recently re-discovered organizational structure as a focus of research. In the last ten years organizational economics has made substantial progress. The discussed papers are part of this thriving literature, which bridges micro-economics and management science. We encourage submissions to the workshop of papers in areas broadly related to the focus of the Guest Lectures, also by PhD students and young scholars. If interested, email the paper you wish to present to by Friday, October 23 2009.

Location: Quadrangle Building, Room QB8 (guest lectures and presentations), QB Staff

For catering purposes RSVP to Rochelle, , by November 6, 2009 indicating your interest in attending the workshop (whether as a speaker or as an attendee).

You are here > Home / Events / Market issues from climate change: carbon footprints, life cycle analysis and food miles

Market issues from climate change: carbon footprints, life cycle analysis and food miles

Thursday, 15 October 2009, 1:00pm to 2:00pm

Spectrum Theatre, Corner Customhouse Quay and Johnson Street.

Caroline Saunders
Agribusiness and Economics Research, Lincoln University, Christchurch.

A detailed description of Caroline’s seminar can be downloaded here. For directions to Spectrum Theatre please click on the following link http://www.spectrumtheatre.co.nz/contactus.php
No RSVP is required nor is there an attendance fee for this seminar.

More info: Zoë Lawton, New Zealand Climate Change Research Institute, ph: 04 463 5233 ext8611.

You are here > Home / Events / Climate: changes, causes and consequences

Climate: changes, causes and consequences

Thursday, 08 October 2009, 5:15pm to 6:15pm

GBLT1, Old Government Buildings, Pipitea campus, Victoria University

David Wratt, NIWA

New Zealand Climate Change Research Institute Seminar Series

Abstract

The climate change negotiations leading up to the Copenhagen Conference this November have led to much discussion of “targets”. Targets advocated by various groups include: An assigned temperature target for the total amount of eventual global warming; a limit on the eventual global atmospheric concentration of carbon dioxide; a “carbon dioxide equivalent” concentration target incorporating all anthropogenically-emitted greenhouse gases; a target for limiting the total cumulative emissions of carbon dioxide; and targets for reducing anthropogenic greenhouse gas emission rates by various amounts for various dates. A fundamental underlying question is: What are the likely consequences, in terms of climate changes and subsequent impacts, of various proposed climate-related targets?

As a starting point for considering this question I will review the present situation regarding greenhouse gas emission rates and atmospheric concentrations, and regarding observed changes in the climate and knowledge about their causes. I will then explore potential changes over the next 1-2 decades, asking the question: Could observed climatic changes over periods of a few years provide a robust basis to adaptively modify policies on greenhouse gas emissions? Attention will then be given to the more distant future, by using scenarios to tease out relationships between greenhouse gas emission pathways and expected long-term changes in global climate.

I will move on to discuss information from the scientific literature about potential impacts on both natural and managed systems associated with various levels of global temperature change. This will include considering impacts of changes in other climate-related parameters such as rainfall, storminess and sea level. A risk assessment of this material on impacts and on relationships between emissions and climate changes starts to answer the question I’ve posed at the outset, on the likely consequences of temperature or greenhouse gas changes corresponding to various climate-related targets.

All welcome. No RSVP required.

Download flyer

Click here for more details or contact Zoe Lawton 04 463 5233 ex8611

You are here > Home / Events / The need for speed: Impacts of internet connectivity on firm productivity

The need for speed: Impacts of internet connectivity on firm productivity

Wednesday, 14 October 2009, 12:30pm to 2:00pm

Arthur Grimes, Motu Economic and Public Policy Research

Spectrum Presentation Theatre, BP House, 20 Customhouse Quay, Wellington

Abstract

Fast internet access is widely considered to enhance productivity. Internet access speeds vary regionally within countries and even within cities. Despite articulate pleas for network upgrades to accelerate internet access, there is little rigorous research quantifying benefits to individual firms from upgraded internet connectivity. This presentation outlines research at Motu (with MED) using a large New Zealand microsurvey of firms linked to unit record firm financial data to determine the impact that differing types of internet access have on firm productivity. Broadband adoption is found to boost productivity but we find no productivity differences across broadband type. The results provide the first firm-level estimates internationally of the degree of productivity gains sourced from upgraded internet access.

Biography

Arthur Grimes is a Senior Fellow at Motu Research, Chair of the Hugo Group, Adjunct Professor of Economics at the University of Waikato and Chair of the Board of the Reserve Bank of New Zealand. In 2005, Arthur was awarded the prestigious NZIER Economics Award. He is Principal Investigator on Motu’s FRSTfunded Infrastructure programme that funded the broadband study.

Download printable flyer (243 KB)

You are here > Home / Events / Opportunities created by the Super City

Opportunities created by the Super City

Thursday, 24 September 2009, 12:30pm to 2:00pm

Lester Levy and Ann Poulsen

Level 1, Old Government House, corner Princes Street and Waterloo Quadrant.

The creation of a Super City in Auckland is happening at a time of economic uncertainty and adjustment. In this seminar, we move beyond the Super City controversy. We explore how this new public governance structure opens opportunities for leadership and creativity in the region. Recent international assessments of the factors promoting regional economic development have emphasized the importance of effective government. Further, evidence has emerged in the past decade showing how cities that promote creative activity can serve as magnets for talent, entrepreneurship, and knowledge-based industry. What are the prospects for Auckland over the next decade? Is a renaissance within reach?

Lester Levy (Presenter 1) is an Adjunct Professor of Business at the University of Auckland and Chief executive of Excelerator: New Zealand Leadership Institute. His book, Leadership and the Whirlpool Effect, was published by Penguin in 1999.

Ann Poulsen (Presenter 2) is an innovation and creative projects consultant.

Michael Mintrom (Chair) is an associate professor of Political Studies at the University of Auckland and the coordinator of the Master of Public Policy degree. He has published widely on political leadership and the politics of educational change.

The seminar are free and open the public. Paid parking is available at the Owen G Glenn Building (12 Grafton Road).

You are here > Home / Events / Global warming, climate change and human psychology

Global warming, climate change and human psychology

Friday, 18 September 2009, 12:00pm

Dr Taciano L Milfont (Victoria University of Wellington)

EA407, Easterfield Building, Kelburn Campus, Victoria University

Global warming and climate change are currently hot topics (double meaning intended). However, what is really at stake is environmental degradation. It is now being recognised that large-scale changes in the Earth’s ecosystems are taking place, and there is increasing evidence for anthropogenic climate change (i.e., climate change caused by human activities). Given the key role of human behaviour in the current environmental issues, psychology can boldly lead the research and initiatives to address these issues. In this seminar I will first review the characteristics of environmental issues that function as psychological barriers for the awareness of their existence and for people’s willingness to act. I will then discuss ways in which psychological theory and research can be used to tackle environmental issues. Preliminary results of a longitudinal and national survey of climate change beliefs in New Zealand will also be presented.

To view a map of the Kelburn Campus click here

All welcome. No RSVP required.

You are here > Home / Events / To what extent should New Zealand tax capital gains?

To what extent should New Zealand tax capital gains?

Thursday, 17 September 2009, 7:30am to 9:00pm

Professor Len Burman (Syracuse University, New York) and John Shewan (PricewaterhouseCoopers, NZ).

Lecture Theatre 1, Government Buildings, Victoria University of Wellington, 15 Lambton Quay, Wellington.

Presented by Professor Len Burman (Syracuse University, New York, USA) with commentary by John Shewan (Chairman, PricewaterhouseCoopers NZ).

Click here for a flyer about this seminar.

You are here > Home / Events / Investing in High-Tech: Fostering the industrial commons to strengthen New Zealand’s competitiveness

Investing in High-Tech: Fostering the industrial commons to strengthen New Zealand’s competitiveness

Thursday, 17 September 2009, 12:30pm to 2:00pm

Professor Shaun Coffey, Chief Executive, Industrial Research Limited (IRL)

Spectrum Presentation Theatre, BP House, 20 Customhouse Quay, Wellington

Abstract

As the world scrambles to recover from the global financial crisis, many nations are focusing on stimulating their industrial base. For countries like New Zealand, development of high-tech industries and products is often seen as a separate process from day-to-day industrial activities. It often falls into the “too hard basket”. This ignores the fact that new cutting-edge products often depend in fundamental ways on the resources of a mature industry. Understanding collective capabilities - the industrial commons - available for innovation provides a base for industry development that balances traditional low-value-added activities with the creation of high-tech products to diversify the economy and stimulate export activity.

This presentation will explore the concept of the industrial commons and the use of a number of case studies to demonstrate the impact of R&D on firm performance. It will reflect on the possibilities that exist for New Zealand. The presentation will also draw on lessons from the recent “What’s your problem NZ?” initiative of IRL to illustrate these possibilities.

Biography

Shaun Coffey has had extensive involvement in leading research and development enterprises in Australia and New Zealand. An agricultural scientist by training, his recent interests have included the application of complex systems science and the redesign of animal agriculture systems. Shaun joined IRL from CSIRO Australia in 2006 and has focused on returning the company to its core purpose and restoring financial stability. Shaun is an Adjunct Professor at the University of Queensland.

Download printable flyer (PDF, 193KB)

You are here > Home / Events / Big challenges for a small nation: the future of energy

Big challenges for a small nation: the future of energy

Thursday, 27 August 2009, 12:30pm to 2:00pm

Basil Sharp and Peter Neilson

Old Government House

New Zealand is hugely reliant on the rest of the world for its fuels. Technological advancements such as battery operated cars provide us with the opportunity to be more self-reliant. However, the debate about what sort of alternative approaches to generating electricity has not yet occurred. We need a debate about the appropriate mix of new forms of electricity generation (wind, solar). We also need a debate on whether nuclear energy is an acceptable source of energy for us. While controversial, the pressures of climate change and need for clean energy is forcing other economies to increase reliance on nuclear energy - this is a debate that New Zealand is still to have. New Zealand also has a large reserve of low quality coal, and we rely on future sequestration technology to enable us to fully exploit these sources. We need to consider the future of such technologies, and to explore what can be done to speed the emergence of cost-effective sequestration technologies.
Rhema Vaithianathan (Chair) is a senior lecturer in Economics in the University of Auckland Business School and a core contributor to the MPP degree.

Basil Sharp (Presenter 1) an associate professor and Director of the Energy Centre at The University of Auckland Business School.

Peter Neilson (Presenter 2) is the CEO of the New Zealand Business Council for Sustainable Development and a former Cabinet Minister.

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You are here > Home / Events / Diversity in a recession: economic drain or economic gain?

Diversity in a recession: economic drain or economic gain?

Sunday, 23 August 2009, 3:30pm to 5:30pm

Te Papa Tongarewa: Museum of New Zealand, Oceania.

Following the May activities on the economic benefits of diversity involving visiting economist Philippe Legrain, this session will present New Zealand evidence that diversity within our society and workforce, is an asset and generates economic growth.

In this session, panellists will briefly present New Zealand-based research supporting the economic benefits of diversity, even in a recession.

Guest speakers are:

Dr Kathie Irwin, Te Puni Kokiri
- Maori enterprise

Dr Edwina Pio, Auckland University of Technology
- Ethnic women entrepreneurs

Dr Paul Callister, Victoria University of Wellington
- Pacific peoples economic contribution

Dr David Maré, Motu Economic and Public Policy Research
- Economic Impacts of Immigration

This will be followed by a panel discussion with interaction from the audience.

No attendance fee

To secure your place at this session, please RSVP to or by phoning (04) 494 5780.
(Please specify that it is the ‘Economic Gain’ session you wish to attend).

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You are here > Home / Events / China: the Communist state with Maoist living standards, 1956-1976

China: the Communist state with Maoist living standards, 1956-1976

Monday, 17 August 2009, 12:30pm to 2:00pm

Dr Kent Deng, Department of Economic History, London School of Economics and Political Science

Venue: Railway West Wing Rm501. Pipitea Campus, 23 Lambton Quay, Wellington.

(take lift from groundfloor Railway use lift No.1. otherwise use lift to Level 4 and access Rm501 from stairs.)

Dr Deng is a leading expert on the Economic history of China. He taught at VUW in the mid-1990’s

ALL WELCOME

You are here > Home / Events / Migration, relationship capital and international travel: theory and evidence

Migration, relationship capital and international travel: theory and evidence

Friday, 07 August 2009, 12:30pm to 2:00pm

Victoria University of Wellington, Rutherford House, 23 Lambton Quay, Level 12 boardroom

Guest speaker: Professor Jacques Poot

Abstract
In this paper we consider how international migration is related to the frequency and duration of trips to the home country. For many migrants, international migration triggers a series of trips to visit the home country that allow for a replenishment of the depleted relationship capital with family and friends back home, but these trips incur travel costs and foregone earnings. Given plausible assumptions about the depreciation and replenishment of home country relationship capital, a steady-state level of average maintained relationship capital implies that the optimized travel frequency is inversely related to the distance and the transportation costs, and positively related to the psychological costs of separation. The total time spent at home is increasing in the trip frequency, but with an elasticity that is decreasing in cultural proximity. Empirical evidence in support of these theoretical predictions is found in a unique longitudinal sample of international travel of 13,674 New Zealand citizens and 6,882 UK citizens who migrated to Australia between 1 August 1999 and 31 July 2000.

About the speaker
Jacques Poot is Professor of Population Economics at the University of Waikato. Jacques has a PhD from Victoria University of Wellington, where he held various academic positions between 1979 and 2003. He was also Foreign Professor at the University of Tsukuba in Japan (1994-97 and 2002). He is a Correspondent (Honorary Fellow) of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, External Research Fellow of the Centre for Research and Analysis of Migration (CReAM) at University College London, Adjunct Professor at VU University Amsterdam, and an Affiliate of Motu Economic and Public Policy Research in Wellington.

Tea and coffee available prior to the meeting. As this is a lunchtime seminar feel free to bring your brownbag lunch.

The is no RSVP for this seminar. Space is however limited.

All welcome.

You are here > Home / Events / Our changing climate: mitigation, adaptation, regulation

Our changing climate: mitigation, adaptation, regulation

Tuesday, 11 August 2009, 5:15pm

Ministry for the Environment, Wellington

EIANZ and NZPI

The event includes three speakers, each speaking about a different aspect of managing climate change.

RSVP to by Thursday 6 August 2009.

Upfront payment for the event is preferred.

(Please make cheques out to “NZPI Wellington Branch”.
Payment can also be made by phone or internet banking to Westpac
03-0518-0181918-00.
Please include your name and invoice number so your payment can be identified.)

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You are here > Home / Events / 12th annual labour econometrics workshop

12th annual labour econometrics workshop

Friday, 07 August 2009 to Saturday, 08 August 2009

Queensland University of Technology

Hosted by the National Centre for Econometric Research (NCER) and QUT’s School of Economics and Finance

The Labour Econometrics Workshop (LEW) is an annual Australasian event hosted by a different university each year. Its goal is to provide an opportunity for researchers in applied microeconom(etr)ics to share and receive feedback on their work, particularly new or preliminary papers and particularly (although not necessarily) in the areas of labour and applied econometrics. Sufficient time is devoted to each paper to enable a serious discussion of methodological and technical issues. Organisers strive to make the pool of presenters a blend of established researchers and junior scholars.

Dates:

5 May 2009	Deadline for submission of extended abstracts/papers
May - June	Notifcation of paper acceptance
15 July 2009	Last day for registration
7 August 2009	First day of workshop and optional workshop dinner
8 August 2009	Last day of workshop
9 August 2009	Social Day - Rock Climbing/ Bridge Climbing or Pumpabiking!

See the NCER website for further details.

You are here > Home / Events / Distinct communities, diverse populations, different futures: towards 2030

Distinct communities, diverse populations, different futures: towards 2030

Monday, 31 August 2009 to Tuesday, 01 September 2009

Wellington Convention Centre

The conference is of relevance to anyone who has an interest in population trends and issues. This includes people studying, teaching or working in the fields of demography, sociology, sustainability, planning, geography, economics and local and central government researchers, planners and policy makers. We have received over 50 papers and it is shaping up to be a full and interesting two days.

Regester for the conference here. For more details see the PANZ website.