The Centre for Strategic Studies, Victoria University of Wellington and the Centre for Defence and Security Studies, Massey University jointly hosted the 2015 New Zealand Defence White Paper (DWP) Symposium yesterday (21 May 2015). Apart from the below average venue, the symposium was a good start to an interaction with analysts outside the government. The speakers at the symposium represented multiple schools of thought and posed some good questions. The venue gets below average rating as the speaker-audience eye contact was poor, there were audio issues and a machine was continually humming in the backdrop.

Jim Rolfe of the Centre for Strategic Studies while inviting the guests on various panels was not sure if the event was a symposium or a seminar but Graeme Fraser in his welcome address set the ball rolling. Robert Ayson, focusing on various theories was soon blurring the lines between strategic and trade priorities and put forward his set of questions and expectations from the Defence White Paper 2015. Lance Beath presented a strategic long view which could have a significant impact on New Zealand defence forces in the future but the audience was more keen to put Lance Beath out of place.

Peter Greener made an astute presentation on New Zealand’s defence capabilities and acquisitions by specifying the hardware requirements and maintaining a cutting-edge. Chris Salt’s “hinterland” and “sitting ducks” pitch was more aimed at crying wolf rather than backing up his claim with solid evidence. There is a need to share something substantial with your audience instead of just assuming that audience sitting in front has already read your book. By this time I was trying my best to hold back yawns.

Paul Sinclair on the next panel was an ideal example of old-school mate who could easily do the toing and froing between policy woodlands and conformity. I checked my phone to confirm whether we were actually breathing in the year 2015. Damien Rogers, the last speaker emphasised ethics and humanity. He himself was doubtful if this idealism would ever find a mention in the DWP.

Overall, a productive interaction but none of the speakers were able to show any linkages to the New Zealand aspirations aiming at the United Nations positions and a penchant for  ‘punching above its weight’.