Public Policy Institute
Waipapa Taumata Rau
We provide independent analysis, critical research and insight into key policy issues affecting Aotearoa New Zealand, the Asia Pacific, and the global community.
We bring together researchers from across disciplines to create and disseminate evidence-informed, policy-relevant knowledge that speaks to policy agendas, amplifies policy impact, and grows our partnerships with governments, both local and central, as well as non-profits, communities and others engaged in policy research and evaluation in New Zealand and internationally.
The PPI is committed to creating meaningful relationships with Māori to ensure that all aspects of our research, teaching, and external activities support and engage with te Tiriti o Waitangi, acknowledging our responsibilities to support Māori self-determination and development.
The PPI is also home to the Master of Public Policy, where postgraduate students engage in learning and knowledge exchange with researchers and professionals to address a range of challenging policy questions.
Our People
Meet our team of researchers, lecturers, and associates
Auckland Trade and Economic Policy School
The University of Auckland’s Public Policy Institute hosts an annual Auckland Trade and Economic Policy School (ATEPS). The School was launched in 2019 with the support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Master of Public Policy
Develop your potential for leadership in local and national government, non-governmental organisations, or the private sector.
MPP Online
Solve real-world problems with the Master of Public Policy through Auckland Online.
Doctoral Study in Public Policy
Our doctoral programme in Public Policy at the University of Auckland offers an exceptional educational experience for future leaders.
News, Events and Media
Read about our latest news, upcoming events, recordings of past events, and our people in the media.
Graduate Careers
Public Policy graduates are making a difference in local and national government, communications, business development and management.
Paris Marx: Digital Sovereignty in a Time of Rising Fascism
Thursday 10 April, 5-6.30pm Register at digitalsovereignty.lilregie.com The United States is collapsing into an authoritarian state controlled by tech billionaires that is intent on waging economic warfare against its former allies – yet the digital technology we...
New Zealand’s International Futures
New Zealand's International Futures: Security, Economy and Diplomacy Organised by the Public Policy Club at University of Auckland and the New Zealand Institute of International Affairs, featuring PPI Director, Professor Jennifer Curtin. DATE AND TIME: 6pm,...
Prof Lisa Ramsey: Balancing Trademark and Freedom of Expression Rights in Trademark Registration and Enforcement Laws”
12 March 2025 The Faculty of Law’s New Zealand Centre for Intellectual Property, New Zealand Centre for Human Rights, Policy and Practice, and the Faculty of Arts and Education’s Public Policy Institute were pleased to host Professor Lisa Ramsey, an expert on the...
ATEPS 2024
Spotlight on Southeast Asia Pathways to Prosperity: Building Resilient Trade Partnerships for a New Era Join us for our annual Auckland Trade and Economic Policy School (ATEPS). Registration is now open. $450 for two days, including Welcome Reception. Register now...
Philippine Foreign Policy in an Era of Great Power Competition
Talk by academic and Philippine foreign policy expert Richard Heydarian Richard will be speaking about the Philippines' foreign policy under the Marcos administration and the challenges and opportunities for international engagement, including relations with New...
With ACT and NZ First promising to overhaul Pharmac, what’s in store for publicly funded medicines?
By Paula Lorgelly Professor of Health Economics, University of Auckland Never before has Pharmac – the government’s medicine procurement agency and decision maker – featured so prominently in an election. Many parties are pledging more funding, but two are...
The prospect of City Deals in New Zealand
By David Waite, University of Glasgow The Auckland Mayor’s recent manifesto (“Manifesto for Auckland”), which seeks new arrangements with central government, hinges on a call for greater autonomy. The possibility of a City Deal was noted in the manifesto, and this...
Election 2023: Health Policies under the Microscope
What lies in store for our health sector after the 14 October election? We have assembled a panel of speakers with diverse expertise and perspectives on Aotearoa New Zealand’s health system to examine and discuss health policy ideas and initiatives proposed by...
Sustainability is often an afterthought in space exploration – that needs to change as the industry grows
By Priyanka Dhopade, Carolle Varughese, Lena Henry, Sarah Hendrica Bickerton, and Te Kahuratai Moko-Painting Aotearoa New Zealand is the latest country to enter the expanding and competitive international space market. In the aerospace strategy and national space...
Metaphors can be useful but they have dark side
By Peter Adams ‘Mental illness’ is no longer seen as a metaphor but a taken-for-granted truth. This view acts as a barrier, preventing alternative understandings and interventions being taken seriously Opinion: I often reflect on the wide range of positive...
Latest Events
Paris Marx: Digital Sovereignty in a Time of Rising Fascism
Thursday 10 April, 5-6.30pm Register at digitalsovereignty.lilregie.com The United States is collapsing into an authoritarian state controlled by tech billionaires that is intent on waging economic warfare against its former allies – yet the digital technology we...
