New Zealand First leader Winston Peters has used a major campaign-style speech to position his party as the defender of national sovereignty, economic security and traditional Kiwi values ahead of this year’s general election.
Addressing supporters at a public meeting, Peters delivered a wide-ranging message focused on restoring confidence in the country’s future, arguing New Zealanders were looking for stability, experience and practical solutions during a period of economic and political uncertainty.
The speech, titled Keep Hope Alive, outlined New Zealand First’s vision for the country while drawing sharp contrasts with both Labour and National, signalling the party’s intention to play a significant role in shaping the next government after the election.
A central theme was national sovereignty, with Peters arguing that decisions affecting New Zealand should be made domestically rather than being influenced by international organisations and overseas interests. He positioned New Zealand First as a party focused on putting New Zealanders first, framing the election as a choice about who controls the country’s future direction.
Economic pressures also featured heavily in the address. Peters pointed to rising living costs, electricity prices and supermarket bills as ongoing challenges facing households, while warning against the sale of strategic national assets. He reiterated support for retaining state ownership of key institutions and infrastructure, including Kiwibank and Air New Zealand, arguing such assets provide long-term economic security for future generations.
Superannuation was another major focus, with Peters reaffirming New Zealand First’s long-standing commitment to protecting retirement entitlements. He argued that older New Zealanders who have spent decades contributing through taxes deserve certainty and stability in retirement, rejecting calls for cuts or means testing.
The speech also highlighted New Zealand First’s broader campaign themes around regional development, economic resilience and restoring public confidence in government institutions. Peters told supporters that the party sees the 2026 election as an opportunity to build on gains made since returning to Parliament in 2023 and to secure a stronger mandate for its policy agenda.
Alongside the policy messaging, New Zealand First confirmed additional electorate candidates as it continues preparations for the election campaign. The party has been steadily rolling out policy announcements and candidate selections in recent months as it seeks to capitalise on growing public attention ahead of November’s vote.
Political observers say the speech reflects New Zealand First’s strategy of focusing on cost-of-living concerns, national identity, regional investment and opposition to what it describes as excessive political and bureaucratic influence from overseas bodies. The party is expected to continue unveiling campaign commitments in the lead-up to the election.
With the election campaign gathering momentum, Peters’ message was clear: New Zealand First believes it can offer voters an alternative path centred on economic security, national independence and renewed confidence in the country’s future.
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