New Zealand First leader Winston Peters is entering the 2026 General Election campaign with a focus on tackling the cost of living, reforming local government, managing immigration and positioning his party as a decisive force in determining the country’s next government.
With opinion polls suggesting New Zealand First could once again hold the balance of power after the election, Peters has described this year’s contest as a pivotal moment for New Zealand, arguing the country faces significant economic, social and constitutional challenges.
As the campaign gathers pace, Peters is expected to outline how New Zealand First believes it can address the issues voters consistently rank among their highest priorities.
Mr Peters, you’ve described the 2026 election as an election like no other and spoken about a major political shift taking place in New Zealand. What do you believe is the single biggest issue that will determine how New Zealanders vote this year?
The rising cost of housing, groceries, electricity, insurance and other everyday essentials continues to place pressure on many households despite inflation easing from its peak. New Zealand First has consistently argued that reducing the cost of living should remain the Government’s top priority.
Mr Peters, you’ve repeatedly identified the cost of living as the biggest challenge facing Kiwi households. What specific policies would New Zealand First prioritise in the next term to reduce everyday costs for families, seniors and workers?
One of New Zealand First’s election commitments is to campaign for the disestablishment of Auckland Council’s Independent Māori Statutory Board.
The board was established under the Local Government (Auckland Council) Act 2009 to ensure Māori participation in Auckland Council’s decision-making and to help the council meet its statutory obligations to Māori.
Supporters say the board provides an essential voice for mana whenua and mataawaka on issues affecting Auckland’s Māori communities. Critics, including New Zealand First, argue governance arrangements should be consistent across local government.
Mr Peters, New Zealand First has announced it will campaign on disestablishing Auckland Council’s Independent Māori Statutory Board. Why is this an election priority for your party, and what would you say to those who argue the board provides an important voice for Māori in Auckland’s decision-making?
With MMP making coalition governments the norm, New Zealand First has frequently played a pivotal role in government formation. Current polling suggests the party could again be influential in determining who forms the next administration after votes are counted.
Mr Peters, polling suggests New Zealand First could play a significant role in forming the next government. As voters head toward the election, what conditions or policy bottom lines would be non-negotiable for New Zealand First in any future coalition discussions?
As campaigning intensifies, New Zealand First is expected to continue positioning itself as a party focused on economic stability, constitutional issues, law and order, and what it describes as practical solutions to the pressures facing New Zealand households.
The party’s performance over the coming months may prove crucial in shaping not only the outcome of the 2026 election but also the makeup and policy direction of the next Government.
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