Roger Gray Critiques New Zealand’s ‘No’ Culture in Auckland Speech

In a recent address at the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron in Auckland, Roger Gray, the Chief Executive of the Ports of Auckland, highlighted a concerning trend he perceives in New Zealand’s attitude towards development and change. He noted that major cruise lines have begun referring to the country as “No Zealand,” a reflection of what he describes as a pervasive culture of negativity towards new initiatives. This observation has sparked discussions about the implications of such a mindset on the nation’s growth and attractiveness for international business.

Gray’s comments come in the wake of his visit to Miami, where he met with representatives from four major cruise lines to understand the decline in their operations in New Zealand. The cruise industry has been a significant contributor to the economy, and Gray’s address underscores the urgency of addressing the barriers that hinder its growth.

Recent events illustrate his concerns. For instance, a proposal by Santana to extract $7 billion worth of gold near Cromwell faced fierce local opposition. Additionally, Eric Stanford‘s initiative to reform the education curriculum has also been met with resistance from unions. Even Chris Bishop‘s call to abolish regional councils, which he argues are inefficient and costly, has encountered a similar backlash. These examples demonstrate a broader pattern of reluctance to embrace change, prompting the government to implement a fast-track approvals process to navigate through expected objections.

The roots of this ‘no’ culture may lie in both regulation and societal attitudes. Gray pointed out that the Resource Management Act (RMA) has been criticized for creating a framework that often leads to refusals rather than approvals. However, he also suggested that this mindset reflects a cultural inclination towards maintaining the status quo. New Zealand enjoys a high quality of life, characterized by moderate temperatures and relative safety, which may contribute to a lack of urgency for change.

Despite these challenges, Gray expressed optimism about the potential for New Zealand to shift towards a more affirmative stance. He noted the emergence of political leaders willing to challenge conventional norms. The mayor of Auckland, for example, is actively pursuing changes to the port’s operations to enhance the city’s economic prospects. Similarly, Chris Bishop is taking significant steps to dismantle regional councils, while Erica Stanford is advocating for substantial educational reforms despite facing opposition.

Gray’s hope is that New Zealand can transition from a culture of ‘no’ to one of ‘yes,’ particularly during challenging times. As the country confronts various economic and social pressures, the ability to embrace opportunities and change could prove vital for its future.

In conclusion, Gray’s insights serve as a call to action for New Zealanders to reconsider their approach to development and change. By fostering a more open and accepting attitude towards new initiatives, the nation can enhance its prospects for growth and maintain its competitive edge in the global arena.