ABOUT US
We offer the best of both hemispheres. Local presence with global influence.
We create space for a deeper conversation
Our mission is to strengthen leadership and global connection so New Zealanders are better equipped to navigate the challenges shaping our future.
We bring together people with different experiences and perspectives – across sectors and generations, across political, social, economic and religious divides – and provide a platform to explore shared challenges and find common ground.
The conversations we host create space to work through the questions that matter most – the ones that involve values, trade-offs and judgment as much as facts and expertise. Participants leave better informed, better connected, and better equipped to lead in their own worlds.
Tap into our global network
Our global reach enables New Zealanders to tap into one of the most influential networks in the world. With over 600 people across 14 countries, the Aspen Institute offers unprecedented access to global resources and relationships that extend well beyond our borders – led by trustees including Condoleezza Rice, alongside our local co-patrons the Rt. Hon. Helen Clark and the Rt. Hon. Sir Donald McKinnon.
Our story starts in Queenstown. And Aspen.
In 2018, The Aspen Institute New Zealand was founded by Christine Maiden Sharp as an independent, non-partisan and not-for-profit organisation – established for all New Zealanders, with co-patrons the Rt. Hon. Helen Clark and the Rt. Hon. Sir Donald McKinnon.
The original home and inspiration of the Institute was Aspen, Colorado. As the first partner in the southern hemisphere, we returned to the organisation's roots by basing ourselves in Queenstown, Aspen's sister city, in the heart of Whakatipu-wai-Māori.
The people of New Zealand have inspired us all by showing resilience and a commitment to democratic values. No matter its size, New Zealand is now in a world leadership role.
— Secretary Albright, Washington DC, 1937-2022
(Photo: Timothy Greenfield-Sanders)
Our history. Seventy five years of enabling ideas.
The Aspen Institute was formed by Walter Paepcke in 1949, just a few years after the most diversionary wars the world has seen. Inspired by the natural beauty of Aspen, leaders from all over the world came there to set aside their differences and build a better future for the world.
Fast forward 75 years and today the Institute leads on almost every issue – always valuing reason, hope, drive, creativity and freedom.
Aotearoa New Zealand has long been part of this thinking. Young as a nation, we bring a history of democratic moderation and a natural instinct for finding common ground.
Get involved
The support of New Zealanders like you is at the heart of our work. There are many ways to be part of it – attend an event, join Te Kākano our supporters' community, or sign up for The Lookout newsletter.
Whatever your level of involvement, we'd love to hear from you.