About us
The McGuinness Institute is a non-partisan think tank working towards a sustainable future for New Zealand.
The Institute applies hindsight, insight and foresight to explore major challenges and opportunities facing New Zealand over the long term.
Who we are
The McGuinness Institute employs graduates, academics and young professionals from a range of disciplines and our patrons provide invaluable guidance and encouragement.
Our history
Our journey started more than 20 years ago with a vision to positively influence public policy here in Wellington, New Zealand.
Work programme
At the McGuinness Institute, we are fortunate to be able to set our work programme in response to where we think we can best deliver value.
Library
Named after the former Chair of the Commission for the Future, Professor James Duncan (1921–2001), the James Duncan Reference Library was established to provide a record of long-term thinking in New Zealand.
Annual reports
Our annual reports detail our research, governance and finance activities for each year ending 31 March.
Connect with us
We welcome your thoughts, feedback and general enquiries.
Our values
Curiosity and chronicling
Approaching projects and research with open and inquisitive minds. Where possible, recording events and ideas over time in a factual and detailed way.
Our work focuses on producing informative, evidence-based, accessible research, enabling New Zealanders to learn lessons from the past and develop effective policy for the future.
Kaitiakitanga and sustainability
Focusing on guardianship, responsibility and intergenerational equity with a view to achieving long-term benefits for all of New Zealand.
Our work focuses on the year 2058 as a benchmark.
Manaakitanga and fairness
Building reciprocity, integrity, trust, sincerity and equity. Actively seeking diverse perspectives in order to develop innovative work practices, stress-test assumptions and avoid biases.
Our work focuses on collaborating with local, national and global institutions, including government organisations, NGOs, iwi, hapū and Pasifika organisations to actively develop initiatives that contribute to New Zealand’s social capital.
Mātauranga and mōhiotanga
Acknowledging both traditional and contemporary knowledge. Where possible, using the skills of observation, critical thinking, interpretation, strategy and forward engagement to ensure knowledge is easily accessible to new generations.
Our work generally focuses on young people between 18 and 25 years of age.
Stay in the loop
Subscribe for annual updates of what we have been up to, for insights on our recent publications and to learn about upcoming events.