The Initiative hosted the sixth annual Next Generation Debates. Top debaters from the Universities of Auckland, Victoria, Canterbury and Otago debated a wide range of topics. The series was generously supported by the Friedlander Foundation.

The semi-final and final debates were followed by a panel discussion, with panellists giving their views on the moot, and engaging in lively Q&A sessions. This year, we welcomed David Seymour, Leader – ACT Party; Julie Anne Genter, Spokesperson for Auckland Issues, Health, Transport and Youth – Green Party; Diane Maxwell, Retirement Commissioner, Commission for Financial Capability; Peter Dunne, Minister of Internal Affairs – United Future Party; Nicola Willis, Candidate for Wellington Central – National Party; and Grant Robertson, Spokesperson for Employment and Finance – Labour Party.

Victoria University of Wellington won the 2017 Grand Final.

Come along and listen to some of New Zealand’s top debaters battle it out in the grand final of the 2017 Next Generation Debates with the moot This House believes that paying down debt should be the government’s priority as tax revenues increase. The debates will be followed by a panel discussion with Nicola Willis, National Party Candidate for Wellington Central and Grant Robertson, Spokesperson for Employment and Finance, Labour Party.

Date: Wednesday 23 August 2017
5.30 - 6.00pm   Arrival
6.00 - 7.20pm   Debate and Q&A with panelists
7.20 - 8.00pm   Drinks and nibbles

Location: City Gallery, 101 Wakefield Street, Wellington