New Zealand First is ramping up its campaign for the 2026 General Election, with leader Winston Peters unveiling a new slate of candidates and promoting a series of headline-grabbing policies aimed at appealing to voters concerned about national identity, law and order, democracy and the cost of living.
As the party prepares for the November election, Peters says New Zealand First is positioning itself as a defender of common sense policies and a strong voice within the coalition Government, arguing its presence has been instrumental in influencing key Government decisions over the past parliamentary term.
Among the party’s latest policy announcements is a proposal to restrict voting in New Zealand elections to citizens only. Peters says the change would strengthen the integrity of the electoral system by ensuring that only New Zealand citizens determine the country’s political future. The proposal would end voting rights for permanent residents, who are currently eligible to vote after meeting residency requirements.
The policy has already sparked debate, with supporters describing it as aligning New Zealand with many comparable democracies, while critics argue it would remove long-standing democratic rights from thousands of permanent residents who contribute to New Zealand society.
Candidate selections have also attracted attention as New Zealand First expands its team ahead of the election. Peters says the party is seeking candidates with practical experience across business, agriculture, local government and community leadership, describing the line-up as people who understand the everyday challenges facing New Zealanders.
The party is also continuing to champion a number of policies that distinguish it from its coalition partners, including stronger immigration controls, greater investment in regional New Zealand, support for the energy sector and opposition to what it describes as divisive identity politics.
Peters has also reaffirmed his backing for Resources Minister Shane Jones, signalling the party remains united behind one of its most prominent ministers as speculation continues over the political landscape heading into the election campaign.
Meanwhile, New Zealand First has welcomed the Government’s decision to reject calls for a nationwide ban on the public sale of fireworks. The party has long argued that responsible New Zealanders should not lose freedoms because of the actions of a minority who misuse fireworks, framing the issue as one of personal responsibility rather than additional regulation.
With Parliament entering one of its final sittings before the election campaign intensifies, New Zealand First is expected to continue focusing on issues including economic resilience, regional development, energy security, law and order, immigration and constitutional matters.
Political commentators suggest the party’s strategy is aimed at consolidating support among voters seeking a more conservative approach on social issues while maintaining its long-standing emphasis on regional New Zealand and national sovereignty.
As election day approaches, Peters is positioning New Zealand First as a party capable of influencing the balance of power once again, arguing that a strong result for NZ First would provide stability and ensure the next Government remains focused on what the party describes as the interests of everyday New Zealanders.
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