Last week a half page advertisement in the Otago Daily Times by Re:Shape called for "courageous conversations" about the country’s political system.
The advertisement stated the democratic system’s "institutions and machinery of government" were inherited from the 19th century, and not fit for purpose in the 21st century.
"They don’t reflect, recognise or embrace the realities of life in New Zealand today, let alone being capable of responding to what the future may hold."
Being elected every three years, politicians needed "significant short-term benefits" to attract and retain voter support, it said.
The system did not reward them for making "sound long-term social and physical infrastructure decisions".
"The largest infrastructure deficit in our nation’s history is just one of many consequences of this.
"Other serious problems are also the result of our political system’s failure.
"Heavily polluted waterways; health system crises; housing supply deficit; intergenerational poverty; high rates of youth offending and entrenched inequity."
The advertisement directed readers to the website www.re-shape.org.nz
Alongside Mr Cadogan, the advertisement was signed in support by Wellington Mayor Tory Whanau and University of Canterbury political science Prof Bronwyn Hayward.
Mr Cadogan told the ODT he was "honoured" to be asked to be one of the first supporters of Re:Shape.
He had spent seven years trying to achieve things in a system he believed was "fundamentally broken".
"That is why I am excited to be on the LGNZ [Local Government New Zealand] advisory group looking at a future by local government, as the sector works its way through the 17 recommendations made by the Future For Local Government Panel that spent two years trying to find better ways for local government to progress in New Zealand.
"The way we do democracy in New Zealand needs a serious relook.
"If what we are seeing in the current elections, where parties appear to be basing policy on what will be popular in the short-term rather than thinking of the generational wellbeing of our country and its people, isn’t proof that we need a rethink, then I don’t know what is.
"I am not sure where this journey will lead, but I am excited to be on it."
Re:Shape has been approached for comment.
