New Zealand First leader Winston Peters says the country must take a tougher approach to multinational technology companies, strengthen protections against artificial intelligence abuse and ensure regulation does not place unnecessary burdens on businesses and workers.
Speaking ahead of the upcoming election campaign, Peters outlined a range of priorities he believes are increasingly important to voters, from economic sovereignty and digital safety to regulatory reform and government accountability.
The veteran politician, a regular voice on Radio Waatea, says New Zealand faces a series of challenges that require stronger leadership and a willingness to put national interests first.
One issue attracting growing attention is workplace health and safety reform.
While New Zealand First has supported recent changes, Peters argues further work will be required after the election to ensure regulations strike the right balance between protecting workers and allowing businesses to operate effectively.
The party has long argued that health and safety legislation should focus on genuine workplace risks rather than creating unnecessary compliance burdens that can frustrate employers, community groups and volunteers.
Peters says the challenge is ensuring common sense remains at the centre of the system while maintaining strong protections for workers.
Peters has also renewed calls for New Zealand to take a more assertive approach towards multinational technology companies.
He argues that global digital giants continue to generate significant revenue from New Zealand consumers and businesses while contributing comparatively little in tax.
The issue has become increasingly prominent internationally, with governments around the world exploring digital services taxes and other mechanisms to ensure large technology firms contribute more fairly to national economies.
Peters says New Zealand should not be afraid to pursue measures that ensure global corporations pay their fair share while protecting local businesses from unfair competition.
The debate comes as concerns grow over the economic influence of a handful of major technology companies that dominate digital advertising, social media and online commerce.
Artificial intelligence has emerged as another major issue following recent reports of whānau photographs being used without consent to generate explicit content online.
At the same time, concerns have been raised by musicians and artists over the use of copyrighted material by AI systems without permission or compensation.
Peters says stronger safeguards are needed to protect New Zealanders from emerging forms of digital exploitation.
The rapid development of AI technology has outpaced existing legal frameworks in many countries, creating uncertainty around privacy, copyright, intellectual property and consent.
For Māori communities, concerns extend beyond personal privacy to questions of data sovereignty, cultural ownership and the protection of taonga.
Calls are growing across the political spectrum for legislation that would require greater transparency from technology companies, strengthen penalties for misuse of personal images and ensure creators retain control over their work.
As campaigning intensifies, Peters says New Zealand First’s core message remains centred on protecting national interests and ensuring government decisions reflect the needs of ordinary New Zealanders.
The party is positioning itself as a voice for voters concerned about economic pressures, public services, immigration, law and order, and the pace of social and technological change.
Peters argues New Zealand needs strong, experienced leadership capable of challenging powerful interests and advocating for policies that prioritise local communities.
Heading into the election, New Zealand First is again seeking to present itself as a stabilising force within New Zealand politics.
Peters’ long political career remains one of the party’s defining strengths, with supporters pointing to decades of experience in government, coalition negotiations and international affairs.
Political observers say New Zealand First’s ability to influence the next government may once again depend on its success in attracting voters looking for an alternative to the major parties.
With debates around artificial intelligence, economic sovereignty, taxation and regulation continuing to gain momentum, Peters is betting that experience, independence and a focus on national interests will resonate with voters.
As the election approaches, New Zealand First is making its case that the country needs practical solutions, stronger protections and a willingness to stand up to powerful interests both at home and overseas.
Whether that message translates into electoral support will become clear when voters head to the ballot box.
