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New Zealand Needs a Real Definition of Economic Resilience

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  Published in Science and Technology on Saturday, February 14th 2026 at 18:50 GMT by The New Zealand Herald
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Saturday, February 14th, 2026 - The term 'resilience' has permeated public discourse in New Zealand, frequently invoked when discussing responses to climate change, healthcare challenges, and, increasingly, the nation's economic future. But a critical question lingers: do we truly understand what economic resilience means, and, more importantly, are we actively building it in a meaningful way?

This question was recently posed to the Auckland Business Forum by Phil O'Reilly, and it deserves far wider attention. For too long, 'resilience' has functioned as a convenient catch-all, a vaguely defined concept applied to almost any policy initiative. If New Zealand is serious about securing its economic survival in an increasingly volatile global landscape, a robust national conversation defining and implementing economic resilience is not just desirable--it's essential.

So, what would a truly resilient New Zealand economy look like? It's not merely about bouncing back from shocks; it's about anticipating them, adapting to change, and maintaining a trajectory of sustainable growth despite adversity. This translates to an economy characterized by diversification, innovation, and strong, multifaceted connections to the global marketplace. Crucially, it's an economy that isn't overly reliant on any single sector, a dominant trade partner, or a fragile supply chain.

The recent global shocks - the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine - served as stark reminders of our economic vulnerabilities. Disrupted supply chains caused widespread shortages, energy prices soared, and financial markets experienced unprecedented volatility. These events exposed the fragility of an economic system heavily dependent on international stability and just-in-time delivery. New Zealand, geographically isolated and reliant on a relatively narrow range of exports, was particularly susceptible.

However, acknowledging the need for resilience isn't sufficient. Concrete action is required. Several key areas demand immediate attention. Firstly, supply chain diversification is paramount. New Zealand must actively reduce its dependence on single sources for essential goods and services. This requires fostering domestic production capabilities where feasible, and cultivating robust trade relationships with a wider range of international partners. A strategic review of critical supply chains, identifying vulnerabilities and alternative sourcing options, is a crucial first step.

Secondly, investment in innovation is non-negotiable. Supporting businesses engaged in developing cutting-edge technologies and processes is vital for boosting productivity and competitiveness. This isn't simply about funding research and development; it's about creating an ecosystem that encourages experimentation, rewards risk-taking, and facilitates the commercialization of innovative ideas. Tax incentives, streamlined regulatory processes, and access to capital are all essential components of such an ecosystem.

Thirdly, a culture of adaptability needs to be actively fostered. New Zealand businesses must be encouraged to embrace change, experiment with new business models, and learn from failures. This requires a shift in mindset, moving away from risk aversion and towards a more entrepreneurial spirit. Education and training programs that emphasize problem-solving, critical thinking, and adaptability are crucial.

Finally, strengthening relationships with diverse trading partners is essential. While existing relationships should be nurtured, New Zealand must proactively seek to expand its export markets and forge closer ties with countries that share its values and interests. This requires a proactive trade policy that prioritizes diversification and reduces reliance on any single market. The recently concluded free trade agreement with the European Union is a positive step, but further efforts are needed to broaden New Zealand's trade network.

This isn't just an economic imperative; it's a matter of national security. A resilient economy underpins a strong nation, capable of weathering storms and seizing opportunities. A prosperous economy ensures the wellbeing of New Zealanders and safeguards our long-term future. The conversation about economic resilience needs to be inclusive, bringing together businesses, policymakers, academics, and the public. This dialogue must be honest, transparent, and grounded in evidence. We must move beyond superficial pronouncements and engage in a rigorous analysis of our vulnerabilities and opportunities.

Let's ensure 'resilience' isn't relegated to a meaningless buzzword. Let's transform it into a guiding principle that shapes our economic future and secures New Zealand's prosperity for generations to come.