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April 01, 2026
#economy: Labour leader Chris Hipkins is defending his party’s record
Waatea Team
Posted On April 1, 2026
Download AudioLabour leader Chris Hipkins is defending his party’s record as pressure mounts over rising fuel prices and the wider cost-of-living crisis.
With petrol costs continuing to climb, the coalition government has pointed to decisions made during the Covid-19 period, taking what it describes as a cautious and measured response to current economic pressures. Hipkins rejects suggestions the situation rests solely with the previous government, pointing instead to global factors driving fuel prices and inflation.
He says a Labour government would focus on easing pressure for households through targeted support, while continuing to invest in public services and infrastructure to strengthen long-term resilience.
The issue comes as parts of Te Tai Tokerau again deal with severe weather damage, with recent flooding wiping out roads and critical infrastructure. Hipkins says rebuilding efforts in regions like Northland and Tairāwhiti would be a priority under Labour, with a focus on more resilient infrastructure and faster recovery support for affected communities.
He says repeated weather events highlight the need for sustained investment and better planning to protect vulnerable regions.
Hipkins has also weighed in on the decision to cut funding for iwi radio services, which has led to the loss of te reo Māori news bulletins. He says the move raises serious concerns about the future of Māori broadcasting and the role it plays in supporting te reo Māori.
The Labour leader says maintaining access to te reo Māori news and information is a critical part of language revitalisation and community connection, and questions whether current funding priorities are aligned with those goals.
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