ABOUT US
We offer the best of both hemispheres. Local presence with global influence.
We create space for a deeper conversation
It’s time for us to come together as a nation to tackle the issues that matter to New Zealanders and our region. This is what the Aspen Institute does. We convene discussion and inspire ideas that inform and empower individuals to solve society’s most important problems.
The key word here is ‘convene’. We work between fields and across all political, social, economic and religious divides to find common ground. The upshot is that all parties leave better informed and better equipped to effect change 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 employees spread across 14 countries, The Aspen Institute offers unprecedented access to global resources headed by trustees such as Condoleezza Rice and Mike Bezos, alongside local co-patrons the Rt. Hon. Helen Clark and Rt. Hon. Sir Donald McKinnon.
Our story starts in Queenstown. And Aspen.
In 2018, The Aspen Institute New Zealand was formed as an independent, non-partisan and not-for-profit organisation established for all New Zealanders. It was founded by Christine Maiden Sharp with co-patrons the Rt. Hon. Helen Clark and the Rt. Hon. Sir Donald McKinnon.
The original home and inspiration of the Institute was Colorado. As the first partner in the southern hemisphere, we've come back to the organisation’s roots by basing ourselves in Queenstown, Aspen’s sister city. What better place to meet up than here since Whakatipu-wai-Māori is the mauri/spiritual leader that represents ‘the essence that binds the physical and spiritual elements of all things together’.
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 is often at the forefront of this thinking. Young as a nation, we are a place of inspiration and the birthplace of many inspiring world leaders. A place of democratic moderation, where ‘Finding Common Ground’ is etched in our DNA.
Get involved
The support of New Zealanders like you is at the heart of our work. Whether you’re joining an event, backing our work or sharing your voice, there’s a place for you in the Aspen community.