Welcome to the new-look Lookout. We’ve refreshed our newsletter to cut through the noise and deliver sharper insight on the global and local challenges reshaping our world. You’ll notice a crisper layout and a renewed focus across our three core areas of activity:
Global Affairs - advancing global solutions and connectivity.
Critical Conversations - strengthening leadership and informed thinking on the big issues of our time.
Connected Communities - delivering practical, local solutions from the ground up.
Expect concise, relevant ideas to help you navigate uncertainty with clarity, purpose and integrity.
This month, we examine New Zealand’s shifting defence posture, new survey findings on WTO reform, and the implications of China’s expanding global influence. On the local front, we explore housing challenges in Queenstown and Aspen- and share upcoming events, including a new flagship partnership with the University of Otago - the inaugural Aspen Otago Security Forum, a major gathering on regional security set to launch later this year.
We hope you find value in this new approach, and we welcome your feedback.
Ngā mihi - Christine and the Aspen Institute NZ team
Global Affairs
NZ Defence Spend Signals Shift From US Alliance Aspen moderator and international relations expert, Robert Patman, explores what NZ’s increased defence budget says about our changing defence relations - a timely prelude to the upcoming Aspen Otago Security Forum. Read his full analysis here.
Aspen at the NZ-India Table
At a private dinner hosted by NZ’s High Commission in Delhi, Aspen’s presence, alongside NZ's PM and trade delegation, reflected Aspen's ongoing role in advancing dialogue on trade, innovation, and global cooperation.
Critical Conversations
Can the WTO Survive Without Reform?
The Hinrich Foundation’s latest survey reveals widespread consensus: WTO reform is urgently needed to safeguard the multilateral trading system. Read their findings and recommendations here.
Facing China's Challenge
Julian Lindley-French, writing for Aspenia Online, warns that China’s ambitions mirror past empires’ rise and decline - and argues decisive Western action is urgently needed. Explore his full perspective here.
Connected Communities
Housing at a Crossroads
Our latest Sister Cities forum unpacked the housing challenges facing Queenstown and Aspen. Read the key takeaways, including the surprising data on the impact of short-term rentals, and why commute time matters, here.
Australian-New Zealand National Security: Shared Threats, Shared Solutions
Join us in Queenstown on 11 October 2025, as leading experts identify and discuss escalating and emerging security risks for New Zealand, Australia and the wider region. In partnership with the University of Otago, this initiative will host both private and public forums.
More details, including the list of New Zealand, Australian and international speakers will be announced soon.
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