About our New Zealand Politics news
Latest news on politics in New Zealand, with coverage on political parties, upcoming elections, policy changes and key issues like housing and Māori rights.
The 2023 general election saw the Labour Party's Chris Hipkins face a significant defeat, with the centre-right National Party, led by Christopher Luxon, becoming the largest party. Labour's loss marked the worst defeat of a sitting government since MMP's introduction in 1996. The election saw increased political polarisation and disputes over indigenous rights and co-governance.The National Party formed a coalition government with ACT and New Zealand First, with Christopher Luxon becoming Prime Minister on 27th November 2023, ending the six-year tenure of the Labour government.
The relationship between the government and Māori, the indigenous people of New Zealand, has been a longstanding issue. Central to Māori rights discussions is the Treaty of Waitangi, a foundational document in New Zealand's governance which outlines the partnership between the Crown and Māori. Treaty settlements, which aim to address historical grievances and breaches of the Treaty, are ongoing, with significant financial and land redress involved.
Housing affordability also remains a significant issues in New Zealand, especially in major cities like Auckland and Wellington. While the government has implemented various policies to address this issue, such as increasing housing supply and introducing measures to curb speculation, the crisis persists.
For political scientists, analysts, and those with an interest in New Zealand politics, our dedicated NewsNow feed is an essential tool. We gather the latest news, expert opinions, and thorough reports from trusted sources, offering a nuanced and well-informed perspective on politics in the South Pacific nation.