Overview of this research workstream

This workstream focuses on organised interests in New Zealand that have an influence on politics and society – mainly what are normally termed “interest groups”, “lobby groups”, “pressure groups”, “campaign groups”, and “think tanks”. In separate workstreams we will deal with other organised groups such as corporate lobbying firms and political parties.

There are a wide variety of interest groups in New Zealand that represent an array of different ideological causes and represent different sectors of society. Some claim to work for the public good, others represent different members. The most obvious examples range from the Taxpayers’ Union to Federated Farmers, through to the CTU and Greenpeace.

This workstream will continuously monitor the impact of these interest groups, evaluating how they help or hinder the public interest and vested interests. The workstream and the staff involved will become the preeminent and trusted expert for the public on the role of interest groups in the policy process.