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On 1 August 2017, Ardern succeeded Andrew Little as both leader of the Labour Party and Leader of the Opposition.[1] Following the 2017 general election held on 23 September, the New Zealand First party held the balance of power between the sitting centre-right National Party government, and the left bloc of the Labour and Green parties. Following negotiations with the two major parties, New Zealand First leader Winston Peters announced on 19 October 2017 that his party would form a coalition government with Labour.[2] That same day, Green Party leader James Shaw announced that his party would give confidence and supply support to the 55-seat Labour–NZ First government.[3] The Greens' support, plus the coalition, resulted in 63 seats to National's 56—enough to ensure that Ardern maintained the confidence of the House. Three years later, Labour went on to a landslide victory in the 2020 general election with 50% of the vote and 65 seats, an outright majority of the 120 seats in the House.[4]
On 19 January 2023, Ardern announced her resignation and that she would not stand for re-election in the 2023 general election.[5] Hipkins succeeded her as Prime Minister and leader of the Labour Party on 25 January 2023.[6] Labour lost its majority to the opposition National Party following 2023 general election that was held on 14 October 2023.[7] The Government remained in a caretaker capacity until the new National–led coalition government was sworn in on 27 November 2023.[8]
The general election on 23 September 2017 saw the New Zealand First party hold the balance of power between National and the centre-left bloc of Labour and the Green Party. Following several weeks of negotiations with both National and Labour, New Zealand First announced on 19 October 2017 it would form a minority coalition government with Labour. Confidence-and-supply support from the Greens, negotiated separately with Labour, enables the Government to have a majority in the House of Representatives.[2][3] During the coalition-forming negotiations, Labour agreed to drop its proposed water tax on farmers as part of its agreement with New Zealand First.[9] In return, NZ First agreed to drop their demand for referendums on overturning New Zealand's anti-smacking ban and abolishing the Māori electorates.[10][11] The Greens consented to a confidence and supply agreement with Labour and New Zealand First in return for several concessions, including: a referendum on legalising cannabis, treating alcohol and drugs as a health issue, net zero emissions by 2050 and requiring a climate impact assessment analysis for all legislation[12][13]
First term (2017–2020)
NZ First, Labour and Green ministers with the Governor-General, October 2017
2017
The Government made several policy announcements in late 2017. In terms of domestic policies, the Government reaffirmed its commitment to re-entering Pike River Mine by March 2019, scrapped National Standards in schools, and created a Tax Working Group to reform New Zealand's taxation system and alleviate the country's housing crisis.[14][15][16] In terms of foreign policies, the Government continued New Zealand's participation in the Trans-Pacific Partnership negotiations, opposed US President Donald Trump's move to recognise Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and reiterated New Zealand's support for the Two State Solution.[17][18] In November 2017, Prime Minister Ardern offered to resettle 150 of the asylum seekers from the former Manus Regional Processing Centre in New Zealand, but was rebuffed by Australia's Turnbull Government.[19]
2018
On 19 January 2018, Ardern revealed that she was expecting her first child in June, and that Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters would serve as Acting Prime Minister while she took maternity leave for a period of six weeks.[20] In June 2018, she temporarily relinquished her duties to Winston Peters, following the birth of her child, for a period of six weeks. Peters became Acting Prime Minister on 20 June 2018, when Ardern went into labour. Her six-week maternity leave concluded on 2 August 2018.[21]
On the domestic front, the Labour-led coalition government implemented several policies and new laws. In terms of education, the Government introduced legislation to stop the creation of new charter schools while allowing allowing the 11 existing schools to transition to "special character" schools.[22][23] The Government also launched several transportation, homelessness, family relief, emergency response and health plans and programmes with the aim of improving infrastructure, services, and social and health outcomes.[24][25][26][27][28] On 17 May, Finance MinisterGrant Robertson released the 2018 New Zealand budget, allocating NZ$2.8 billion in operational funding and NZ$3.8 billion in capital funding.[29] In October 2018, the Government formally established a new government department called the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development to manage housing and urban development issues.[30]
Following the Christchurch mosque shootings on 15 March 2019, Ardern announced that the Government would be reforming New Zealand's gun laws.[40] On 10 April, the Government passed legislation banning semi-automatic firearms, magazines, and parts.[41] In addition, the government announced an amnesty and buy-back scheme for prohibited firearms and components.[42] Ardern also proposed legislation creating a national firearms register, tighter firearms restrictions and a ban on overseas visitors buying firearms in New Zealand.[43]
On 27 June 2019, Ardern announced a cabinet reshuffle. She split the housing portfolio into three positions; appointing Megan Woods as Minister of Housing, Kris Faafoi as Associate Minister of Housing, and Phil Twyford as Minister of Urban Development. In addition, Grant Robertson was appointed as Minister Responsible for the Earthquake Commission; Jenny Salesa as Minister of Customs; and Peeni Henare became Minister of Civil Defence. In addition, several Labour Members of Parliament were appointed to various parliamentary positions including assistant speaker, senior government whip, and parliamentary private secretaries.[44]
In terms of defence policy, the Government announced the withdrawal of New Zealand forces in Iraq by June 2020. The New Zealand Defence Force's non-combat Building Partner Capacity (BPC) training mission had been training Iraqi Security Forces in support of the US-led coalition efforts to combat Islamic State forces in Iraq.[45] In June 2019, the New Zealand military deployment in Afghanistan was extended for another 18 months.[46] In June 2019, Defence MinisterRon Mark unveiled the Government's $20 billion Defence Capability Plan 2019, which aimed to boost the Defence Force's capabilities, equipment and manpower over the next 11 years.[47]
In terms of economic development, the Government allocated NZ$100 million from the Provincial Growth Fund to supporting Māori economic development, NZ$27 million to improving transportation and the horticulture sector around Kaipara District and NZ$20 million to rebuding Hillside Engineering in South Dunedin.[48][49] In terms of employment policy, Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Iain Lees-Galloway announced that the Government would be raising the minimum wage to NZ$18.90 an hour from April 2020, a $1.20 increase from $17.70.[50]
In terms of education policies, the Education MinisterChris Hipkins announced plans to merge the country's sixteen polytechnics into a "NZ Institute of Skills and Technology" by April 2020 in response to deficits and falling domestic enrolments.[51] In May 2019, the Government invested NZ$95 million into teacher training programmes and scholarships over the next four years in order to address the teacher shortage.[52] In August 2019, the Government proceeded to replace 11 industrial training organisations with several workforce development councils.[53] Other notable education policies have included launching a trial free lunch programme, expanding the teaching of New Zealand history (particularly the Treaty of Waitangi and Māori history) in schools, and investing NZ$400 million in school property upgrades.[54][55][56]
In terms of electoral law, the Government introduced legislation restoring the voting rights of prisoners serving less than three years imprisonment and banning foreign donations over NZ$50.[57][58]
In terms of fiscal policies, the Government ruled out a capital gains tax.[59][60] Key priorities of the 2019 New Zealand budget included creating a new frontline mental health service, investing $40 million in suicide prevention services, stationing nurses at secondary schools, building 1,044 new homes, investing $320 million into specialist services to address family and sexual violence, investing $200 million into apprenticeships and vocational training programs, investing $1 billion into KiwiRail, and investing $1.7 billion and $1.2 billion into repairing hospitals and schools respectively.[61] In October 2019 the New Zealand Treasury and Finance Minister Grant Robertson released a report stating that the Government's surplus had increased from NZ$2 billion to NZ$7.5 billion. The net Government debt had also fallen to 19.2% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP), which is still short of its self-imposed Budget Responsibility Rules to keep debt at less than 20% of GDP. The total government revenue also increased from NZ$6.2 billion to NZ$86.5 billion as a result of taxation. However, the total district health board deficit rose to NZ$1 billion.[62] The net Crown debt rose by 0.2% from NZ$57.5 billion in the 2017-2018 financial year to NZ$57.7 billion in 2019.
[63] In response, National's Economic development spokesman Todd McClay claimed that the Government was not investing enough money in taxpayers and highlighted declining business confidence.[64]
In terms of health policies, the Government ordered 12 new radiation machines, invested NZ$60 million into Pharmac as part of a ten-year cancer action plan and created a Cancer Control Agency and Suicide Prevention Office.[65][66][67] The Government also responded to a national measles outbreak by creating a National Health Coordination Centre.[68]
In terms of housing policies, Minister of Housing and Urban DevelopmentPhil Twyford admitted in January 2019 that the government would be unable to meet its target of building 1,000 KiwiBuild homes by 1 July, with only 33 homes being built as of 23 January. The minister estimated that the government would be able to build only 300 houses by the 1 July deadline.[69] In early September, Housing Minister Megan Woods announced that the Government would be revising its KiwiBuild programme, including scrapping its initial target of building 100,000 houses over the next years.[70] In mid August 2019, the Associate Housing Minister Kris Faafoi and Social Development Minister Carmel Sepuloni announced that the Government would be launching a NZ$54 million program to tackle homelessness in New Zealand by hiring more staff to work with homeless people and investing $16 million in the Sustaining Tenancies Programme. [71] In November 2019, Associate Housing Minister Kris Faafoi confirmed plans to amend the Residential Tenancies Act 1986 in favour of tenants' rights.[72]
In terms of immigration policies, the Government scrapped the requirement for African and Middle Eastern refugee applicants to have relatives who were residing in New Zealand and ending a partnership visa policy that discriminated against Indian arranged marriages.[73][74]
The global Covid-19 pandemic dominated the Government's attention and priorities for much of 2020. In late January, the Government chartered an Air New Zealand aircraft to assist in evacuating New Zealand, Australian, and Pacific Island nationals from Wuhan.[81] On 2 February, temporary travel bans were imposed on COVID-hit countries like China and Iran.[82][83] New Zealand's first COVID-19 case was confirmed on 28 February 2020.[84]
On 14 March, the Government imposed isolation requirements on foreign travellers, which was followed by a strict border closure on 19 March.[85][86] On 21 March, Ardern introduced a COVID-19 alert level system after COVID-19 cases rose to 52.[87] On 25 March, the COVID-19 alert system was raised to Level 4, leading to the closure of schools and most businesses with the exception of essential services such as supermarkets, petrol stations and health providers.[88] To comply with lockdown policies, Parliament adjourned for five weeks commencing 27 March.[89] Prior to Parliament's closure, it passed three bills with cross-party support dealing with emergency spending, remitting interest on tax owed after 14 February, allowing local authorities to meet remotely, governments to take over schools, and suspending no-cause evictions and rent increases for six months.[90] On 25 March, it was announced that Leader of the OppositionSimon Bridges would chair a cross-party committee called the Epidemic Response Committee to scrutinise the government's response to COVID-19.[91]
Due to declining transmission rates, COVID-19 lockdown restrictions were eased between 28 April and 25 May, allowing more businesses, schools and public gatherings to reopen.[92][93][94] On 13 May, the Government passed the COVID-19 Public Health Response Act 2020 which empowered Police to enter homes to enforce lockdown restrictions without a warrant.[95] On 20 May, the Government released a COVID-19 contact tracing app called the NZ COVID Tracer.[96] By 3 June, the Government had eliminated social distancing restrictions at businesses, public transportation and all public gatherings.[97]
To address the economic impact of COVID-19, the Government announced various relief measures including a NZ$12.1 billion business package, a NZ$56.4 million Māori communities and businesses assistance package, NZ$27 million to support social service providers such as the Salvation Army and Women's Refuge, a NZ$1.5 billion wage subsidy scheme, a NZ$50 million media support package, a NZ$23 billion omnibus business support package, and a NZ$1.2 billion unemployment relief package.[98][99][100][101][102][103][104] In late March 2020, Finance Minister Grant Robertson confirmed the government was negotiating with banks to ensure that nobody would lose their homes as a result of defaulting on mortgage payments during the pandemic.[105] In mid-April, Ardern and National Party leader Simon Bridges confirmed that several ministers and MPs would take a 20 percent pay cut.[106] The 2020 budget released on 18 June had a large focus on COVID-19 relief, with key provisions including a NZ$50 billion COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund and a NZ$3.2 billion wage subsidy scheme.[107]
Following the discovery of four community COVID-19 cases in Auckland on 11 August, the Government reintroduced national lockdown restrictions, with heightened restrictions for epicentre Auckland.[108][109] Due to the outbreak, Ardern also delayed the 2020 New Zealand general election from 19 September until 17 October in response to the recent outbreak in COVID-19 community transmissions.[110] In addition, the dissolution of Parliament was pushed back to 6 September.[111] While the Government's second lockdowns were supported by Cabinet, NZ First leader Winston Peters and ACT leader David Seymour regarded them as unnecessary and economically damaging.[112] Lockdown restrictions were eased on 21 September, with limits on public gatherings.[113]
On 12 October 2020, the Government signed an agreement with Pfizer and BioNTech to purchase 1.5 million COVID-19 vaccines and established a NZ$66.3 million fund to support COVID-19 immunisation programme.[114]
Other policies and developments
In terms of education, the Government announced the introduction of climate change education into the school curriculum and gave parents the ability to consent to their children receiving religious instruction in schools.[115][116] During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Government announced a NZ$87.7 million distance learning package, a NZ$130 million tertiary students' support package, and extending the school lunch programme.[117][118][107] On 13 May, Education Minister Hipkins moved the National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA) high school exams from 6 November to 16 November.[119] In June, the Government launched a NZ$2.6 million trial initiative to combat "period poverty" by distributing sanitary products in 15 Waikato high schools.[120]
In terms of electoral law, the Government coalition parties passed legislation in June 2020 restoring the right to vote for prisoners serving sentences of less than three years and abolishing the Electoral Commission's power to remove voters from the electoral roll.[121] In terms of firearms policy, the Government passed legislation establishing a new firearms licensing entity and allowing farms and agrarian businesses to apply for firearms endorsements for pest control purposes.[122]
In terms of foreign policies, the Government dispatched firefighters, medical personnel, and elements of the Royal New Zealand Air Force and New Zealand Army to assist with firefighting efforts during the 2019–20 Australian bushfire season.[123] In late February, Ardern allocated NZ$2 million to Fiji's climate change relocation fund.[124] In early May, Ardern met with Australian Prime MinisterScott Morrison and several Australian state and territorial leaders to discuss the development of a trans-Tasman COVID-safe travel zone.[125] In late July, Ardern and Foreign Minister Peters announced that New Zealand would suspend its extradition treaty with Hong Kong in response to the Chinese Government's Hong Kong national security law introduced earlier that month.[126]
In terms of health policies, the Government passed legislation decriminalising abortion, allocated significant public funding to purchasing personal protective equipment, ventilators and respiratory equipment, and supporting drugs and medicines purchasing agency Pharmac, close contact tracing and immunisation.[127][128][129] In terms of housing, the Government passed legislation which eliminated rental bidding and "no-cause" evictions, raised the period of rent increases to 12 months and allowed victims of domestic violence to end a tenancy within two days' notice.[130]
In terms of immigration policies, the Government extended temporary work visas due to travel restrictions and introduced fees for travellers quarantining at managed isolation and quarantine (MIQ) facilities.[131][132] In other areas, the Government announced plans to merge TVNZ and Radio New Zealand into a new public broadcasting service, invested NZ$12 billion transport infrastructural New Zealand Upgrade Programme, NZ$300 million into the Aotearoa New Zealand Homelessness Action Plan, and NZ$1.9 million into acquiring fog cannons for dairies following a spate of robberies.[133][134][135][136] On 9 March, Ardern appointed Andrew Coster as the new Commissioner of Police, replacing Mike Bush who resigned in April 2020.[137] In late June, the Government abandoned plans to build light rail connecting the Auckland CBD with Auckland Airport in Manukau due to disagreements between Labour and NZ First.[138]
On 17 October, Labour won the 2020 general election in a landslide, winning 50% of the vote and 65 seats in the House, the first time under the current MMP system that any party won enough seats to govern without a coalition or a confidence and supply agreement.[143][4] Following prolonged negotiations, the Green Party formed a confidence and supply agreement with the Labour Party on 31 October. Under this governing arrangement, co-leader James Shaw would remain Minister for Climate Change and become Associate Environment Minister while fellow co-leader Marama Davidson would become Minister for the Prevention of Family and Sexual Violence and Associate Minister of Housing. During a Zoom call, 85% of the 150 Green Party delegates voted to accept this confidence and supply agreement with Labour.[144]
During its Speech from the Throne in late November 2020, major Government policy announcements included free COVID-19 vaccination, building 18,000 public homes, raising the minimum wage, replacing the Resource Management Act 1991 and promoting economic recovery from COVID-19 through infrastructure investment and training incentives.[145] In terms of domestic policies, the Government announced plans to ban non-self contained hiring vehicles to combat "freedom camping," attract "super wealthy" tourists to New Zealand, encourage women to enroll in vocational education and the trades and extend various work and holiday work visa categories.[146][147][148] On 2 December, Ardern declared a climate change emergency in New Zealand. She also announced several initiatives to reach the Government's 2025 carbon neutral target including requiring the public sector to buy only electric or hybrid vehicles, introducing new building standards for government buildings and phasing out coal-fired boilers in public service buildings. This motion was supported by the Labour, Green, and Māori parties but was denounced as "virtue signaling" by the opposition National and ACT parties.[149]
On 3 January 2021, COVID-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins announced that travelers entering New Zealand from the United Kingdom and United States would be required to take pre-departure tests from 15 January 2021.[154] From 26 January, the pre-departure test requirement was extended to all international travelers with the exception of those coming from Australia, Antarctica, and most Pacific Island states including Fiji, Samoa, Tokelau, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu.[155] On 15 January, Ardern announced the establishment of a one-way travel bubble for Cook Islanders traveling to New Zealand.[156]
On 1 February 2021, the Minister of Local Government Nanaia Mahuta announced that the Government would pass legislation upholding local council's decisions to establish Māori wards and constituencies. This new law would also abolish an existing law allowing local referendums to veto decisions by councils to establish Māori wards. The Government intends to pass it into law before the scheduled 2022 local body elections.[157]
On 3 February 2021, Ardern approved the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for use in New Zealand. The initial batches of the vaccine are scheduled to arrive in late March 2021, with frontline workers and the vulnerable given priority.[158]
On 4 February 2021 Ardern announced that a new public holiday Matariki would be introduced on 24 June 2022.[159] This fulfilled her election pledge in September 2020 to make Matariki a public holiday if Labour was re-elected during the 2020 general election.[160]
On 5 February, Immigration New Zealand confirmed that New Zealand's refugee resettlement programme, which had been suspended in 2020 as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, would resume. The Government plans to resettled 210 refugees by 30 June 2021. Refugees will undergo a two-week stay in managed isolation.[161]
On 9 February, Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta announced the suspension of high-level bilateral military and political relations with Myanmar following the 2021 Myanmar coup d'état. They joined other Western governments in refusing to recognise the new military-led government and calling for the restoration of civilian-led rule. In addition, aid projects were diverted away from the Tatmadaw and a travel ban was imposed on Myanmar's military leaders.[162]
On 11 February, Stuff reported that the Government's New Zealand Work Scheme to address the labour shortage in the fruit-picking sector caused by COVID-19 had only attracted 54 people since its launch in late November 2020. The scheme had offered up to NZ$200 to cover accommodation costs and a NZ$1,000 incentive payment to workers who had completed jobs that lasted for six weeks or longer.[163]
On 13 February 2020, the Government agreed to pay NZ$40 million to 212 kiwifruit orchardists and Te Puke–based post harvest operator Seeka in order to settle a class action lawsuit alleging that the Government was liable for losses caused by the incursion of the kiwifruit vine disease Pseudomonas syringae (PSA), which swept through the Bay of Plenty region in 2010. Kiwifruit orchardists had initially challenged a Court of Appeal ruling that the Government could not be held liable for the damage caused by PSA despite the Ministry of Primary Industries allowing PSA into the country through the import of kiwifruit pollen from China. As a result of the settlement, the appeal was withdrawn.[164]
On 14 February, Ardern announced that Auckland would move into an Alert Level 3 lockdown from 11:59pm that night for a period of three days. The rest of New Zealand will move into an Alert Level 2 lockdown for the same time period. The three-day lockdown is meant for the Government to get more information about a new community outbreak in Papatoetoe, South Auckland. Under Level 3, remote work is encouraged, while schools and day care centers continue to serve the children of essential workers. Limits have also been placed on public gatherings and travel around Auckland. Under Level 2, gatherings are restricted to 100 people and travel to Auckland is restricted.[165]
On 15 February, the Government tabled its response to the report of the Social Services and Community Committee on Matters related to Forced Adoptions.[166] At the same time, Minister of Justice Kris Faafoi announced that the Government would pursue reform of adoption laws during the 53rd Parliament.[167] The Government had already referred a review of surrogacy laws to the Law Commission,[168] the adoption inquiry is therefore to be conducted by the Ministry of Justice.[169]
On 24 February, it was reported that the Government's Progressive Home Ownership Scheme, which cost NZ$17 million, had only resettled 12 families in the last seven months. While Housing Minister Megan Woods defended the scheme's achievements, National's housing spokesperson Nicola Willis described the program as a failure.[170]
On 25 February, the Local Government Minister Nanaia Mahuta's Local Electoral (Māori Wards and Māori Constituencies) Amendment Act 2021, which eliminated mechanisms for holding public referendums on the establishment of Māori wards and constituencies on local bodies, passed its third reading. The Bill was supported by the Labour, Green and Māori parties but opposed by the opposition National and ACT parties. National attempted to delay the bill by mounting a twelve-hour filibuster challenging all of the Bill's ten clauses.[171]
On 2 March, Ardern and Health Minister Andrew Little announced that the Government would be appointing a panel of experts to review the drug-purchasing agency Pharmac's timeliness and transparency of decision-making.[172]
On 23 March, Ardern and Housing Minister Megan Woods announced a housing package to address the country's housing shortage, which includes a $3.8 billion housing acceleration fund, increases to First Home Products' income caps, changes to regional price caps, extending "bright-line tests" to ten years, eliminating the interest deductibility loophole on residential property, and extending the Apprenticeship Boost initiative to support the trades and trade training, and borrowing $2 billion to increase land acquisition in order to boost the supply of housing.[173] The NZ Property Investors Federation President Andrew King criticised the Government's decision to eliminate interest rate tax deductions for landlords.[173] The Government's housing package was welcomed by Green finance spokesperson Julie Anne Genter.[174]
On 14 April, the New Zealand Government confirmed that a ban on live cattle exports by sea would be implemented over the two next years. The ban came as a result of a review into livestock exports launched two years ago by Agricultural MinisterDamien O'Connor. The Government's ban on live cattle exports was criticised by the Animal Genetics Trade Association which complained that the ban would prevent the export of breeding cows, which would potentially lead to the culling of 150,000 calves. By contrast, the animal welfare NGO SAFE welcomed the ban, stating that it would mean that animals would no longer suffer in countries with lower standards of animal welfare than New Zealand.[175]
On 18 May, the Health Minister Andrew Little announced that the Government would seek to amend Section 23 of the Medicines Act 1981 after the High Court Judge Rebecca Ellis ruled in favour of the Ngai Kaitiaki Tuku Ihu Medical Action Society's contention that the Government's decision to approve the Pfizer–BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine exceeded the powers of the Medicines Act. The Medical Action Society had argued that this action would have undermined public trust in the vaccine and wasted vaccine stock already in use in New Zealand.[177]
On 14 June 2021, the Government announced that it would introduce subsidies to make electric vehicles cheaper while raising the price of new petrol and new diesel vehicles, commencing in July.[178] This policy announcement followed a report by the Climate Change Commission on 9 June 2021 advocating the reduction of farm animal numbers, a ban on new household gas connections by 2025, and a shift to electric vehicles in order to reduce greenhouse emissions.[179] In response to the policy announcement, EV City owner David Boot said that it would boost demand for electric cars while expressing concern about the need for educating electric car users. Motor Trade Association chief executive Craig Pomare claimed that the rebate would not be enough to encourage motor users to make the switch to electric cars while Federated Farmers national president Andrew Hoggard expressed concerns about the lack of electric vehicle alternatives for farmers and tradespersons.[180]
In mid–June 2021, Ardern announced that the New Zealand Government would formally apologise for the dawn raids which had disproportionately targeted members of the Pasifika communities during the 1970s and 1980s. This official apology will take place at the Auckland Town Hall on 26 June 2021.[181] The Government's apology announcement was supported by both the Minister for Pacific PeoplesWilliam Sio and National Party leader Judith Collins.[182]
On 16 July, the farmers advocacy group Groundswell NZ staged a nationwide protest campaign called "Howl of a Protest" in 57 towns and cities across New Zealand to protest the Government's freshwater, biodiversity, winter grazing, climate change, and Clean Car Package rebate scheme (known as the "Ute tax"). Farmers, tradespersons and agricultural sector professionals claimed that the so-called "Ute tax" discriminated Ute users due to the lack of electrical alternatives.[183][184] In response, the Agriculture Minister Damien O'Connor stated that farmers had a right to speak their mind but warned that Groundswell's protests would create the perception that farmers were opposed to improving freshwater quality, addressing climate change, managing animal welfare, and ignored the Government's efforts to work with the sector.[185] Meanwhile, Ardern defended the Government's commitment to the environment and brushed off suggestions of a rural-urban divide in New Zealand.[186]
On 30 July 2021, Justice Minister Kris Faafoi introduced the Conversion Practices Prohibition Legislation Bill with the goal of banning conversion therapy.[187] On 6 August 2021, the Bill passed its first reading with the support of all political parties except the opposition National Party, which wanted provisions protecting parents from prosecution.[188]
On 17 August, the Government reinstated Alert Level 4 restrictions on New Zealand in response to a community outbreak of the Delta variant in Auckland.[192] In response to the spread of community cases in Auckland and Wellington, the lockdown was extended for the rest of the month on 20 August and 23 August.[193] On 23 August, Parliament was suspended for a week with the exception of online select committee hearings. National Party leader Judith Collins and ACT Party leader David Seymour criticised this suspension as undemocratic and an "overreach of power."[194]
Following the 2021 Taliban offensive which led to a significant exodus of Afghan refugees, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade suspended the processing of residency applications from Afghan nationals in late August 2021, citing the "rapidly deteriorating situation" caused by the Taliban offensive which complicated international evacuation efforts.[195] The Government's decision to suspend the processing of Afghan residency visa applications was criticised by human rights advocates and Afghan migrants. Former Afghan interpreter Diamond Kazimi stated that 200 Afghan families who had assisted the NZDF were still waiting for their visa applications to be processed. By 26 August, a Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) C-130 Hercules had made two evacuation flights from Kabul.[196] That same day, the RNZAF suspended its evacuation flights following the 2021 Kabul airport attacks. By that stage, 370 people had been evacuated to the United Arab Emirates, where they were transferred to New Zealand.[197]
On 23 August, the Government temporarily suspended the sitting of the New Zealand Parliament for one week at the advice of Director-General of Health Ashley Bloomfield. Select committees will continue online. The suspension of Parliament was criticised by National Party leader Collins and ACT Party leader Seymour as undemocratic and an "overreach of power."[198] Labour, the Greens and the opposition Māori Party proposed a virtual Zoom Parliament and Question Time but National COVID-19 spokesperson Chris Bishop countered that Parliament should be able to go ahead if the Prime Minister was able to hold press conferences at Level 4.[199] On 31 August, Speaker Trevor Mallard confirmed that Parliament would continue meeting under Alert Level 4 conditions with only ten MPs and a small number of staff attending the debating chamber. While Labour, National, the ACT, and Green parties agreed to send MPs, the Māori Party stated that it would not since it was unsafe.[200]
On 22 September, the Government announced a ten-year plan called Kia Manawanui for improving mental health outcomes including setting up an external oversight group headed by Auckland University of Technology (AUT) professor and Waitematā District Health Board chair Judy McGregor. In response, the National Party's mental health spokesperson Matt Doocey criticised the plan, stating that " what is needed now is action, not more vision statements, working groups and nice words."[201] In mid-September, the Government also announced the members of the interim boards of Health New Zealand and the Māori Health Authority. Health NZ will be chaired by Rob Campbell while the Health Authority will be led by co-chairs Sharon Shea and Tipa Mahuta.[202]
On 30 September, the Counter-Terrorism Legislation Act 2021 passed its third reading, introducing new counter-terrorism laws which criminalise the planning of terror attacks and expand the powers of police to conduct warrantless searches. The counter-terrorism bill was supported by the Labour and National parties but was opposed by the Green, ACT and Māori parties.[203] That same day, the Government introduced the Te Kāhui o Matariki Public Holiday Bill to make the Māori New Year Matariki a public holiday. During its first reading, the bill was supported by the Labour, Green and Māori parties but opposed by National and ACT.[204]
On 30 September, Immigration Minister Kris Faafoi announced that the Government would introduce a one-off simplified residency pathway known as the "2021 Resident Visa" for migrants on work visas residing in New Zealand including their families. Faafoi estimated that 165,000 migrants would be eligible for the 2021 Resident Visa programme, which will be rolled out in two phases in December 2021 and March 2022. According to Faafoi, the scheme was meant to address the impact of closed borders and economic hardship caused by COVID-19 on migrants. The announcement was welcomed by the National Party's immigration spokesperson Erica Stanford and Migrant Workers Association President Anu Kaloti for addressing the needs and concerns of migrants.[205]
On 7 October, Foreign Minister Mahuta confirmed that the Government was sending a special representative to the Middle East to help 825 stranded Afghan visa holders to leave Afghanistan. During the 2021 evacuation from Afghanistan, the Government had granted 1,253 visas to Afghans. However, only 428 had arrived in New Zealand following the Taliban takeover.[206]
On 19 October, the Labour and National parties supported a bipartisan housing bill called the Resource Management (Enabling Housing Supply and Other Matters) Amendment Bill, which aims to build 105,500 new homes over the next eight years. Under the proposed bill, three homes of up to three storeys can be built on most sites without the need for going through the resource consent process. The Government plans to pass the bill by the end of 2021, with local councils to implement it from August 2022.[207] The Bill passed its second reading on 7 December.[208]
On 21 October, the New Zealand and United Kingdom Governments signed a free trade agreement eliminating tariffs on 97% of New Zealand exports to the UK. This free trade agreement is worth NZ$970 million and will eliminate tariffs on all New Zealand exports including honey, wine, kiwifruit, onions, most industrial products. In addition, a range of dairy and beef exports will be tariff free after a period of 15 years.[209]
On 27 October, Local Government Minister Nanaia Mahuta confirmed that the Government would proceed with its "Three Waters reform programme" to take control of the management of storm water, drinking water and wastewater from local councils and territorial bodies. The "Three Waters" reforms would place these water services and assets under the control of four new water entities in order to improve the quality of water utilities and lower the cost of water services. The Government planned to start creating these four new entities in late 2021, which will assume control of water utilities in July 2024.[210] In response, the opposition National and ACT parties have vowed to repeal the Three Waters reforms if elected into government.[211] By contrast, Ngāi Tahu's Te Maire Tau, the co-chair of Te Kura Taka Pini (the iwi's freshwater group) welcomed the Three Water reforms, claiming they would improve water services and environmental outcomes.[212]
On 29 October, Ministry for Disability Issues Carmel Sepuloni and Justice Minister Little announced that the Government would establish a new Ministry for Disabled People within the Ministry of Social Development to reform the disability support system and improve outcomes for disabled peoples. In addition, the Government announced a new Accessibility for New Zealanders Bill and the establishment of a new Accessibility Governance Board.[213] The new proposed disability ministry and legislative framework were welcomed Disability Rights Commissioner Paula Tesoriero, Te Ao Mārama chair Tristram Ingham, New Zealand Disability Support Network chief executive Peter Reynolds, and the Green Party's disability spokesperson Jan Logie. Disabled Person Assembly chief executive Prudence Walker welcomed the Government's efforts to prioritise the needs of disabled people but express concerns about funding, disabled leadership, and the limitations of the Accessibility Governance Board.[214]
On 11 November, Justice Minister Kris Faafoi introduced the Three Strikes Legislation Repeal Bill to repeal the Sentencing and Parole Reform Act 2010. While the proposed repeal legislation was supported by the Labour and Green parties, the opposition National and ACT parties defended the "three strikes law." National's justice spokesperson Simon Bridges and ACT's justice spokeswoman Nicole McKee claimed that repealing the "three strikes law" would encourage gangs and violent crime offenders.[215]
On 24 November, Hipkins announced that Indonesia, Fiji, India, Pakistan, and Brazil would be removed from the "Very High-Risk" classification in early December 2021; allowing travellers from these countries to enter New Zealand on the same basis as other international travellers. In addition, Hipkins confirmed that managed isolation and quarantine (MIQ) restrictions would be eased in three stages in 2022. First, all fully vaccinated New Zealanders and other eligible travellers from Australia would be exempt from MIQ from 17 January. Second, all fully vaccinated New Zealanders and other eligible travellers from all other countries would be exempt from MIQ from 14 February. Third, all fully vaccinated travellers would be exempt from MIQ from 30 April.[216]
On 24 November, the Government's COVID-19 Response (Vaccinations) Legislation Act 2021 passed its third reading, allowing businesses to dismiss employees who refuse to be vaccinated against COVID-19. The Bill was opposed by the opposition National, ACT, and Māori parties, which variable criticised the rushed and divisive nature of the legislation and alleged that vulnerable communities would be adversely affected.[217]
On 25 November, the Government announced it would soon release a new Social Security Insurance scheme, labelled the biggest expansion of the welfare state since ACC, which would be funded by a 1–2 percent tax increase.[218]
On 30 November 2021, Minister of TourismStuart Nash announced that the Government would be introducing a Self-Contained Vehicles Bill in February 2022 to address the issue of freedom camping. Under the proposed legislation, only self-contained vehicles with fixed toilets will be able to stay on land managed by local councils. Non-self-contained vehicles will be allowed to stay on Department of Conservation–managed land and commercial grounds unless the department has prohibited it. Freedom campers will be allowed to stay in tents overnight where permitted.[219]
On 9 December, Associate Health Minister Ayesha Verrall confirmed that the Government would introduce new legislation under the Smokefree 2025 goal that would ban anyone under the age of 14 from legally purchasing tobacco for the rest of their lives. Older generations will only be permitted to buy tobacco products with very low-levels of nicotine while fewer shops will be allowed to sell tobacco products. The Government's announcement was welcomed by the Green Party and several health leaders including New Zealand Medical Association chair Alistair Humphrey, Health Coalition Aotearoa smokefree expert advisory group chair Sally Liggins, and University of Auckland Associate Dean of Pacific Collin Tukuitonga for addressing the health effects of smoking particularly within the Māori and Pasifika communities.[220] By contrast, ACT health spokesperson Karen Chhour criticised the proposed legislation, stating that prohibition was unworkable and claiming that it would create a black market for tobacco products.[221]
On 16 January 2022 Foreign Minister Mahuta and Ardern announced that New Zealand was making an initial donation of NZ$500,000 to Tonga in response to the 2022 Hunga Tonga–Hunga Ha'apai eruption and tsunami. She also confirmed that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, New Zealand Defence Force, and other government agencies were working through air and sea options to provide assistance to Tonga. In addition, a Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) Lockheed P-3 Orion would be sent on a reconnaissance flight as soon as it was safe to do so.[223] On 17 January, the P-63 Orion departed for Tonga following reports of no continued ashfall in the island nation.[224]
On 26 January, Mahuta and Ardern expressed support for Ukrainian sovereignty and urged Russia to deescalate tensions in accordance with international law. Ardern also indicated that New Zealand would consider applying targeted sanctions against Russia in the event of hostilities.[225]
On 26 January, the Government asked suppliers Abbott Laboratories, Roche, and Siemens to give the Government priority in ordering stocks of rapid antigen tests. The Government was criticised by several private companies and representative bodies including the Health Works Group, the Food and Grocery Council, and InScience for allegedly commandeering their orders. In response to criticism, Health Director-General Ashley Bloomfield denied that the Government was requisitioning their orders but was merely asking suppliers to consolidate forward orders of rapid antigen tests. The opposition National and ACT parties accused the Government of requisitioning rapid antigen tests from the private sector to hide its alleged incompetence in obtaining rapid antigent tests.[226]
In late January 2022, Transport Minister Michael Wood announced that the New Zealand Government had approved a NZ$14.6 billion project to establish a partially tunneled light rail network between Auckland Airport and the Auckland CBD. The planned light rail network will integrate with current train and bus hubs as well as the City Rail Link's stations and connections. Transport Minister Michael Wood also added that the Government would decide on plans to establish a second harbour crossing at Waitemata Harbour in 2023. The light rail network was supported by the Green Party but criticised by the ACT party as a waste of taxpayer revenue.[227]
On 15 February 2022, the Government's Conversion Practices Prohibition Legislation Act 2022 passed its third and final reading, becoming law with broad cross-party support.[228] The bill's passage was aided by the new National Party leader Christopher Luxon's decision to abandon the Party's bloc vote opposition to the legislation and allow caucus members a conscientious vote.[229]
Following the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine, Ardern and Mahuta issued a statement on 24 February condemning Russia's invasion and calling on Russia to withdraw from Ukraine. In addition, New Zealand suspended high-level diplomatic contacts with Russia and introduced travel bans and export controls.[230]
On 1 March, New Zealand and the United Kingdom formally ratified a bilateral free trade agreement announced in October 2021. This agreement eliminates all tariffs on New Zealand exports particularly meat, butter and cheese along with duties on 99.5% of current trade. Ardern described the free trade agreement as a "gold-standard free trade agreement" that would help accelerate the country's economic recovery.[231]
On 7 March, Ardern announced that the Government would be introducing a new Russia Sanctions Act 2022 under urgency to enable autonomous sanctions against in response to its recent invasion of Ukraine. This legislation would allow sanctions to be placed on those responsible for or associated with the Russian invasion of Ukraine including people, services, companies and assets. Key provisions include freezing assets based in New Zealand; preventing people and companies from moving their money and assets to NZ in order to escape foreign sanctions; banning super yachts, ships and aircraft from entering New Zealand waters and airspace, and imposing a travel ban on 100 top Russian officials. Ardern also indicated that this proposed bill would allow sanctions to be imposed on other states complicit with Russian aggression including Belarus.[232] On 9 March, the Russian Sanctions Bill passed with unanimous support from all parties in Parliament.[233]
On 10 March, Broadcasting Minister Kris Faafoi announced plans to merge the two public broadcasters Radio New Zealand (RNZ) and Television New Zealand (TVNZ) into a new public broadcasting service. The new broadcasting entity would have complete editorial independence, operate under a charter, and be funded through a mixture of government funding and commercial revenue. It is expected to launch in July 2023. While the proposed merger was welcomed by RNZ chief executive Paul Thompson and TVNZ chief executive Simon Power, the opposition National Party described it as wasteful and unnecessary.[234]
On 14 March, Ardern announced that the Government would reduce fuel excise taxes and road user charges by 25 cents a litre for the next three months from 11:59 pm that night. In addition, all public transport fares would be halved from 1 April 2022 for the next three months. This announcement was in response to a global energy crisis caused by the Russian invasion of Ukraine.[235] Ardern had initially denied that New Zealand was experiencing a "cost of living crisis" but had since reconsidered her position. Over the past 12 months, the rising cost of living had led New Zealanders to spend an extra NZ$4000 to $5000 on basic commodities such as food, rent and fuel. Customers spent an extra NZ$678 a year on petrol on average.[236]
On 15 March, Ardern announced that the Government would introduce a new two-year work visa programme allowing New Zealand citizens and residents of Ukrainian descent to sponsor Ukrainian family members seeking to shelter in New Zealand. This "Special Ukraine Policy" aims to bring over 4,000 Ukrainians and comes with work and study rights. In addition, the Government contributed another NZ$4 million in humanitarian aid.[237]
On 17 March, the Government launched its "Te Takanga o Te Wā" history curriculum, which emphasizes the teaching of New Zealand history including the contributions of the Māori, Pasifika and Asian communities. The curriculum will be launched in 2023 and will be compulsory in schools up to Year 10.[238]
On 24 March, Immigration Minister Kris Faafoi and Australian Home Affairs MinisterKaren Andrews jointly announced that the two governments had reached an agreement for New Zealand to accept 150 refugees a year as part of its annual refugee quota from the Nauru Regional Processing Centre or asylum seekers temporarily in Australia for "processing." Refugees being resettled in New Zealand will have to go through the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) process and meet the criteria for NZ's refugee quota requirements. As part of the deal, 450 refugees would be resettled in New Zealand over a three-year period. The Morrison Government had decided to accept a 2012 deal between former New Zealand Prime Minister John Key and Australian Prime MinisterJulia Gillard for New Zealand to accept several asylum seekers who had travelled to Australia by sea. Subsequent Australian governments had declined to accept New Zealand's offer due to concerns that it would encourage more asylum seekers to travel by boat to Australia and that former asylum seekers could gain New Zealand citizenship and migrate to Australia.[239]
On 25 March 2022, Ardern and Mahuta joined the Australian Government in expressing concerns about a proposed Solomon Islands security agreement with China, which would allow China to deploy military and security forces in the Solomon Islands and establish a military base there.[240]
On 8 May, Ardern announced that the Government would allocating NZ$23 million from the State Sector Decarbonisation Fund to reduce greenhouse emissions. As part of the investment, NZ$10 million would be spent on replacing coal boilers at 180 New Zealand schools with clean wood burners or electrical heating. In addition, NZ$12.92 million would be spent on other projects including purchasing electrical vehicles, charging infrastructure, and upgrading heating systems at various public facilities including hospitals, police stations, the University of Waikato and Northland Polytechnic.[241]
On 9 May, Police Minister Poto Williams, Corrections Minister Kelvin Davis, and Justice Minister Kris Faafoi announced that the Government would be investing NZ$562 million to combat crime over the next four years. In addition to a package to help businesses deal with ram raids, the Government would allocate NZ$94 million to combating gangs and organised crime; NZ$208 million to new firearms control unit within the New Zealand Police; NZ$164.6 million in operating cash and NZ$20.7 million capital funding to training Police to the standards of the Armed Offenders Squad and recruiting new Police officers; and NZ$$198.3 million to prison rehabilitation programmes and recruiting new Corrections officers.[242]
On 11 May, Ardern announced that New Zealand's border reopening would be accelerated. From 16 May, the border would reopen to Pacific Island visitors. From 4 July, the border would reopen to all work visa holders and a new "green list" would be introduced in order to attract "high-skilled" migrants for "hard to fill positions." In addition, the border would reopen to all visitor and student visa holders as well as cruise ships on 31 July. In addition, streamlined residency pathways would be introduced in September 2022 for migrants in "green list" occupations or who earn twice the median wage.[243] However, new working restrictions would be introduced to international students including limiting working rights to degree-level students with the exception of certain specified occupations, limiting undergraduate working rights to the length of their courses, and preventing students from applying for a second post-study work visa.[244] The Government's decision to exclude nurses, teachers, and dairy farm managers from the visa residency "green list" was also criticised by professional bodies.[245] In early August 2022, the Government acknowledged that it had not consulted professional nursing organisations and the district health boards about its nursing "green list" visa scheme.[246] On 8 August, the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment admitted that only nine nurses had applied for the "green list" scheme by late July 2022.[247]
On 2 June, Mahuta introduced the Water Services Entities Bill as the first of several new bills to entrench the Three Waters reform programme into law. The proposed bill would establish the four regional water services entities which would take over management of water infrastructure from the 67 local councils. While councils would retain ownership of their water assets through a "community share" arrangement, the new water service entities would exercise effective control over the water assets. Mahuta also confirmed that further legislation would be introduced to facilitate the transfer of assets and liabilities from local authorities to the Water Services Entities, integrate entities into other regulatory systems, and to ensure economic regulation and consumer protection over the new entities.[251] The opposition National and ACT parties claimed that the proposed bill amounted to the theft of local water assets, bureaucratic centralisation, and would inflame ethnic divisions.[251] Communities 4 Local Democracy leader and Manawatū District Mayor Helen Worboys opposed the bill on the grounds that it would take local community assets without compensation.[252]
On 7 June, the Government's Pae Ora (Healthy Futures) Act 2022 passed its third reading. The bill replaces the country's existing district health boards with a new Crown agency called Health New Zealand and establishes as separate Māori Health Authority. The Health Futures Act also establishes a new Public Health Agency within the Ministry of Health while strengthening the Ministry's stewardship role. It also includes a rural health strategy. While Labour and the Māori Party supported the bill as a means of facilitating health reforms and ensuring Māori co-governance, the opposition National Party questioned the government's proposed reforms while the ACT Party expressed concerns about racial division.[253]
On 13 June, a cabinet reshuffle occurred. Kris Faafoi resigned from Parliament, with his immigration, justice, and broadcasting portfolios being assumed by Michael Wood, Kiri Allan, and Willie Jackson. In addition, Ardern confirmed that Speaker of the House Trevor Mallard would be resigning in mid-August 2022 to assume a diplomatic post in Europe. Adrian Rurawhe was designated as his successor. In addition, Poto Williams stepped down from her Police ministerial portfolio, which was assumed by Chris Hipkins. Priyanca Radhakrishnan was promoted to Cabinet while retaining her community and voluntary sector, ethnic communities, youth, associate social development portfolios and adopting the associate workplace relations portfolios. Former Chief Whip Kieran McAnulty became deputy leader of the House while gaining the associate transport, associate local government, emergency management and racing portfolios. In addition, Ayesha Verrall assumed the COVID-19 response and Research, Science and Innovation ministerial portfolios; Duncan Webb became the new Chief Whip; and Meka Whatiri assumed the food safety portfolio.[254] Labour list MPs Dan Rosewarne and Soraya Peke-Mason replaced the outgoing Faafoi and Mallard.[255]
In mid-June 2022, Broadcasting Minister Willie Jackson introduced draft legislation to formally merge public broadcasters Radio New Zealand and TVNZ into a new non-profit autonomous Crown entity called Aotearoa New Zealand Public Media (ANZPM). The new broadcasting service is expected to come into existence on 1 March 2023. Under the proposed Aotearoa New Zealand Public Media Bill, RNZ and TVNZ would become subsidiaries of the new entity, headed by a single board. ANZPM would be funded through a mixture of commercial and government funding. The new organisation would also operate under a charter outlining goals and responsibilities, with editorial independence being enshrined in its statutory legislation. The Government has also allocated NZ$370m over four years in operating expenditure and $306m in capital funding from the 2022 New Zealand budget for funding the ANZPM.[256]
On 27 June, Ardern confirmed that New Zealand would contribute NZ$4.5 million worth of aid to the NATO Trust Fund including medical kits, fuel, communications equipment, and rations for the Ukrainian Army, bringing the total amount of New Zealand military assistance to Ukraine to $33 million. In addition, the Government dispatched a military officer to support the International Criminal Court's investigation into alleged Russian war crimes. New Zealand also contributed $1 million to the ICC Trust Fund for Victims and the ICC Office of the Prosecutor. In addition, the Government extended the deployment and number of New Zealand military and intelligence personnel assisting NATO forces in the United Kingdom, Belgium, and Germany.[257]
On 30 June, Mahuta and Parker confirmed that New Zealand would support Ukraine's legal challenge at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) contesting Russia's claim that it had invaded Ukraine in response to alleged Ukrainian genocide in the Luhansk and Donetsk regions. This marked the second time that New Zealand had filed a legal challenge at the ICJ in support of another country. In 2012, New Zealand had supported Australia's case against Japanese whaling at the ICJ.[258]
On 11 July, Economic and Regional Development Minister Stuart Nash announced that the Government had loaned NZ$6 million from the Regional Strategic Partnership Fund to help food producer New Zealand Functional Foods build an oat milk factory in Makarewa, Southland. The factory will cost NZ$50 million and is due to be completed in 2023. The oat milk factory is estimated to produce 80 million litres of oat milk and create 50 new jobs. While New Zealand produces oats, the country lacked an oat milk processing facility and was forced to import the product from Australia.[259]
On 13 July, Police Minister Hipkins and Justice Minister Kiri Allan announced that the Government would introduce several new laws to combat criminal gangs including a new criminal offence for firing a gun with intention to intimidate; expanding the range of offences for Police to seize vehicles and financial assets; empowering Police and law enforcement agencies to seize cash over NZ$10,000 found in suspicious circumstances; and expanding Police search and warrant powers to find and confiscate weapons from gang members. Hipkins confirmed that these new offenses would be packaged in a new omnibus amendment bill. In response, the National Party's acting police spokesperson Chris Penk claimed that the Government's measures were insufficient in tackling organised crime and called on the Government to ban gang patches and giving Police the powers to disrupt gangs' communications, ability to organise their activities, and warrantless search powers.[260]
On 19 July, the Government extended the 25-cent fuel tax cut and the half price public transportation subsidy until late January 2023 in a bid to combat rising inflation in New Zealand.[261]
On 27 July, the Government's Smokefree Environments and Regulated Products (Smoked Tobacco) Amendment Bill passed its first reading. The bill proposes reducing the number of retailers allowed to sell tobacco, reducing the amount of nicotine allowed in tobacco products, and banning the sale of tobacco to anyone born on or after 1 January 2009.[262] The bill was supported by most parties with the exception of the libertarian ACT Party. While the National and Green parties supported the legislation, the former voiced concern about the experimental nature of the bill while the latter raised concerns about criminal prohibition pushing the tobacco industry "underground."[263]
On 1 August, the Government launched its "cost of living payment" support programme as part of the 2022 New Zealand Budget. People eligible for these payments include New Zealand tax residents 18 years and above who are earning below NZ$70,000 a year, and who are not entitled to the Winter Energy Payment and are not in prison. Two million people are considered to be eligible for the cost of living payments. The first NZ$116 payment was released on 1 August with the second and third payments following on 1 September and 1 October 2022.[264] The rollout was plagued by reports that overseas-based New Zealanders were receiving payments since the Inland Revenue Department had opted to dispense the payments automatically rather than manually check the eligibility of tax residents. The opposition National Party accused the Government of wasting taxpayer money.[265]
On 1 August, Health Minister Little announced that the Government would be spending NZ$14.4 million to recruit more health workers including doctors, nurses, and radiographers for the country's health workforce. As part of the package, the Government would be providing overseas nurses NZ$10,000 to help cover registration costs. In addition, the Government announced that it would be launching a six-month bridging programme for overseas-trained doctors. Other measures include encouraging retired nurses to return to work, expanding a pilot programme allowing overseas-trained doctors to intern at general practitioners' clinics rather than hospitals, and boosting the number of nurse practitioners and doctors. The Government also confirmed that it would launch a national and international healthcare recruitment campaign in coordination with the TVNZ soap opera series Shortland Street. The new international recruitment service would be housed within the new public health agency Health New Zealand.[266]
On 9 August, the Government's Three Strikes Legislation Repeal Bill passed its third and final reading, repealing the Sentencing and Parole Reform Act 2010. The bill was supported by the Labour, Green, and Māori parties but was opposed by the National and ACT parties. While Justice Minister Kiri Allan and Green MP Elizabeth Kerekere welcomed the repeal of what they described as a punitive law that did little to rehabilitate or reintegrate criminals, the National and ACT parties' justice spokespersons Paul Goldsmith and Nicole McKee claimed the Government was ignoring the crime rate and vowed to reinstate the Sentencing and Parole Reform Act if re-elected in the future.[267]
On 22 August 2022, the New Zealand Government purchased Kiwibank's holdings company Kiwi Group Holdings for an estimated NZ$2.1 billion. As a result, the Government acquired full control of the state-owned bank from the New Zealand Superannuation Fund, ACC, and New Zealand Post.[268]
On 30 August, Revenue Minister David Parker announced that it would introduce legislation to apply the Goods and Services Tax (GST) to KiwiSaver fees. The Inland Revenue Department estimated that this proposed tax change could generate NZ$226 million in tax revenue from 2026.[270] Following intense public criticism from fund managers and the opposition National Party, the Government abandoned its plans to apply GST taxation on Kiwisaver fees.[271]
Following the death of QueenElizabeth II, Ardern announced that a one-off public holiday would be held on 26 September to mark the monarch's passing. The holiday would coincide with a state memorial service for Elizabeth at the Wellington Cathedral of St Paul. This holiday is similar to other public holidays held in the United Kingdom on 19 September and Australia on 22 September to mark the Queen's passing. While the Greens and opposition National Party supported the Government's plans for the one-off holiday, the ACT Party and businesses expressed concerns about the adverse economic impact on businesses.[272] On 20 September, Parliament passed urgent legislation creating a once-off public holiday on 26 September. While Labour, National and the Green parties supported the bill, it was opposed by the ACT and Māori parties.[273]
On 12 September, the Government announced that the country's COVID-19 Protection Framework ("traffic light system") would end at 11:59pm that night. As a result, face masks will be eliminated for most public spaces and transportation with the exception of hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, and aged care facilities. In addition, household contacts of COVID-19 positive individuals will not be required to isolate unless they test positive for COVID-19. In addition, vaccine mandates for all travellers entering New Zealand and healthcare workers will end on 13 September and 27 September respectively. COVID-19 antiviral medicines will also be freely provided to COVID-19 positive individuals aged 65 years and above as well as Māori and Pasifika COVID-19 positive individuals aged 50 years and above.[274]
On 28 September, the Government passed the Animal Welfare Amendment Act 2022 which would ban live animal exports from April 2023. The bill was supported by the Labour and Green parties but was opposed by the opposition National and ACT parties. The Government's ban on live animal exports was motivated by the Gulf Livestock 1 disaster in September 2020.[275]
On 11 October, Ardern announced plans to tax the emissions produced by farm animals by 2025. Agricultural emissions by farm animals including burping and urination account for about half of New Zealand's emissions. The Government's proposal was criticised by Federated Farmers national president Andrew Hoggard, who said it would hurt the farming sector by discouraging farmers from making a living. Greenpeace Aotearoa New Zealand's lead climate campaigner Christine Rose claimed the Government's proposed tax on agricultural emissions was insufficient and favoured dairy producers over beef and sheep farmers and Māori landowners.[276]
On 21 October, Transport Minister Michael Wood announced that the Government would launch a NZ$1.3 billion national payment system for all bus, train and ferry fares called the National Ticketing Solution. Waka Kotahi (the New Zealand Transport Agency) and several urban and regional councils had signed contracts with the public transport company Cubic Corporation. The national payment system would be gradually rolled out across the country and would replace existing municipal and regional payment systems including the Bee Card.[277]
On 25 October, the Government's Fair Pay Agreements Act 2022 passed its third reading in Parliament. The bill allows employers and employees to collectively bargain at an industry-wide level. While the bill was supported by the Labour, Green and Māori parties, it was opposed by the National and ACT parties which vowed to repeal it if elected into government at the next general election.[278]
On 4 November 2022, the Government introduced the Arms Act Amendment Bill to stop gun licenses from expiring until Police were able to resolve a backlog of renewing firearms licenses. At the time, there were 12,000 people on the waitlist for a new firearms license. Of this figure, half had been on the waitlist for six months or longer, 1569 had been waiting for at least a year, and 72 have been waiting for two years or more.[279]
In mid November 2022, the Government introduced two new bills, the Natural and Built Environment Act 2023 (NBA) and the Spatial Planning Act 2023 (SPA), as part of its efforts to replace the Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA). The NBA replaces the Government's environmental policy statements with a National Planning Framework (NPF). Under the NPF framework, all 15 regions will be required to develop a Natural and Built Environment Plan (NBE) that will replace the 100 district and regional plans, harmonising consenting and planning rules. An independent national Māori entity will also be established to provide input into the NPF and ensure compliance with the Treaty of Waitangi's provisions. The SSPA will deal with long-term planning. Local committees will be required to develop 30-year regional spatial strategies (RSS) for regional NBEs.[280] In response, the opposition National and ACT parties criticised the Government's proposed overhaul of the RMA legislation on the grounds that it created more centralisation, bureaucracy, and did little to reform the problems associated with the RMA process. The Green Party expressed concerns about what it perceived as the lack of environment protection in the two bills.[281]
On 25 November, the Government and the Māori iwi/tribe Ngāti Mutunga o Wharekauri concluded an "agreement in principle" to settle historical Treaty of Waitangi claims relating to the annexation of the Chatham Islands in 1842. The agreements includes a financial redress of NZ$13 million, the option to transfer culturally significant lands to the iwi as "cultural redress," and shared redress between the iwi and Moriori.[282]
In response to the 2022 Sandringham dairy stabbing, Ardern and Hipkins announced that the Government would be launching a new retail crime package to combat retail crime including a fog cannon subsidy scheme, a NZ$4 million fund to support local councils' crime prevention programmes, and expanding the existing Retail Crime Prevention Fund eligibility to include aggravated robberies.[283]
On 5 December, Ardern and Verrall formally announced that the Government would be holding a royal commission of inquiry into its COVID-19 pandemic response. The inquiry will be chaired by Australian-based epidemiologist Tony Blakely, former National Party cabinet minister Hekia Parata, and former Treasury secretary John Whitehead. The inquiry is expected to be launched on 1 February 2023 and finish in mid-2024. It will examine the overall pandemic response including the health response, border management, community care, isolation, quarantine, and the economic response including monetary policy. However, it will not examine decisions made by the Reserve Bank of New Zealand's Monetary Policy Committee as well as how government policies applied to individual cases.[284] While epidemiologist Michael Baker welcomed the inquiry as a means of preparing for future pandemics, the Green and National parties regarded the inquiry's scope as too narrow and called for a separate review into its economic impact.[285]
On 7 December 2022, the Government's Water Services Entities Act 2022 passed its third and final reading with the sole support of the Labour Party.[286] While National and ACT opposed the Bill on the grounds it promoted co-governance and centralisation, the Greens and Māori parties rejected the Bill due to its lack of anti-privatisation safeguards and alleged "insufficient" co-governance arrangements.[287]
On 12 December 2022, Ardern and Immigration Minister Michael Wood confirmed that the Government would add nurses and midwives to its immigration green list, making them eligible for immediate residency in New Zealand. In addition, the Government established a temporary residence immigration pathway for bus and truck drivers. Teachers and tradespeople including drain layers and motor mechanics were also added to the work to residence immigration pathway. These changes came in response to a national labour shortage across different sectors in the New Zealand economy caused by emigration and low wages. The Government also confirmed plans to add ten jobs to the green list in March 2023 including gas fitters, drain layers, crane operators, civil machine operators, telecommunication technicians, civil construction supervisors, and halal slaughterers.[288]
On 13 December, the Government's Smokefree Environments and Regulated Products (Smoked Tobacco) Amendment Act 2022 passed its third reading by a margin of 76 to 43 votes. While Labour, the Green, and Māori parties voted in favour of the Bill, it was opposed by the National and ACT parties. Associate-Health Minister Verrall argued that the legislation would help reduce tobacco harm among young people and the Māori community while National health spokesperson Reti and ACT Deputy leader Van Velden questioned the effectiveness of the legislation and argued it would cause more harm and crime in the community.[289]
2023
On 13 January, the Emergency Management Minister Kieran McAnulty and Rural Communities Minister Damien O'Connor confirmed that the Government had contributed relief assistance to farmers and communities in the Gisborne District/Tairāwhiti affected by flood damage caused by Cyclone Hale. The Government contributed NZ$150,000 to the Mayoral Relief Fund to help communities in the Gisborne District and another NZ$100,000 to help local farmers and horticulturalists affected by Cyclone Hale.[290][291]
On 19 January, Ardern confirmed that she would be resigning as Prime Minister and leader of the Labour Party prior to the 2023 New Zealand general election, scheduled for 14 October 2023. She also confirmed that she would be stepping down as MP for the Mount Albert electorate.[5][292] Following Ardern's resignation, Chris Hipkins was elected unopposed as the leader of the Labour Party on 21 January.[293] On 22 January, Carmel Sepuloni succeeded Grant Robertson as Deputy Prime Minister.[294] On 25 January, Hipkins and Sepuloni were formally sworn in as Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister respectively.[6]
After assuming office, Hipkins announced that the Labour Government would focus on "cost of living" issues such as rising rent, food prices, and building as the "heart of its work program." Hipkins also stated that the COVID-19 pandemic had created an economic crisis, which his Government would focus on.[295] In late January, Hipkins attended a roundtable event organised by the Auckland Business Chamber where he met with Auckland business leaders to discuss issues affecting the business sector including skills shortages, immigration visa settings, wage rises, and dissatisfaction with the Government's Aotearoa New Zealand Public Media merger, Three Waters reform programme, and the social unemployment insurance scheme.[296]
Following the 2023 Auckland Anniversary Weekend floods which devastated Auckland, Hipkins along with Emergency Management Minister McAnulty and Transport Minister Michael Wood visited Auckland to assess the damage, liaise with local authorities and emergency services, reassure affected constituents, and attended a press conference with Mayor of AucklandWayne Brown.[297] The Government also pledged NZ$100,000 to aid flood relief efforts in Auckland. On 31 January, the Government committed a further NZ$1 million to the Mayoral Relief Fund to assist affected communities in Auckland.[298]
A cabinet reshuffle occurred on 31 January. Andrew Little was replaced as Health Minister by Ayesha Verrall while Michael Wood was assigned the new Minister of Auckland portfolio in response to the 2023 North Island floods. Kieran McAnulty succeeded Nanaia Mahuta as Minister of Local Government. Mahuta herself retained her Foreign Minister portfolio. Jan Tinetti was also appointed as Education Minister and gained the child poverty reduction. Following a cabinet reshuffle that occurred on 31 January 2023, Mahuta lost her Local Government portfolio but retained her foreign affairs portfolio. Ginny Andersen and Barbara Edmonds also joined Hipkins' Cabinet. Andersen assumed the "Digital Economy and Communications, Small Business, and Seniors ministerial portfolios as well as the immigration and Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations associate portfolios. Edmonds assumed the Internal Affairs and Pacific Peoples ministerial portfolio as well as health and housing associate portfolios.[298][299]
On 1 February, Hipkins announced that the Government would spend $718 million in various "cost of living" support measures including extending the 25 cents per litre fuel excise subsidy until 30 June and half-price public transport fares until June 2023. In addition, discounted fares for 1 million Community Service Card holders and tertiary students would be made permanent from 1 July 2023. These subsidies were intended to address the high national cost of living and the effects of the 2023 Auckland Anniversary Weekend floods.[300]
On 8 February, Hipkins announced that several policies including the proposed TVNZ–Radio New Zealandmerger and that a biofuel mandate requiring petrol and diesel to source a certain percentage of biofuel from renewable resources would be scrapped. In addition, Hipkins confirmed that other policies including the social income insurance scheme, proposed hate speech legislation, and the controversial Three Waters reform programme would be delayed or revised. Hipkins also confirmed that the minimum wage would be raised from NZ$21.20 to NZ$22.70 an hour from 1 April 2023. In response to the recent North Island floods, Hipkins conformed that the Government would invest NZ$3 million in discretionary flood recovery payments, NZ$1 million in supporting flood-affected businesses, and NZ$1 million in mental health support.[304]
On 13 February, Hipkins announced a NZ$11.5m aid package in response to storm damage caused by Cyclone Gabrielle. The following day, the Minister of Emergency Management McAnulty declared a national state of emergency over the Northland, Auckland, Tairawhiti, Bay of Plenty, Waikato and Hawke's Bay regions; the third time a state of emergency had been declared over the country. This state of emergency allows for a national coordination of the clean-up response, provide additional resources to affected individuals, and empowers the Government to respond to dangerous situations including restricting travel.[305]
On 23 February, the Government ordered a ministerial inquiry into forestry companies' slash practices particularly the stockpiling of discarded branches and "offcuts," which had exacerbated flood damage caused by Cyclone Gabrielle. The inquiry will be led by former National Party cabinet minister Hekia Parata, former Hawke's Bay Regional Council chief executive Bill Bayfield, and forestry engineer Matthew McCloy. Several political and civil society leaders including National Party leader Luxon, the Forest Owners Association President Don Carson, Green Party co-leader Shaw and fellow Green MP Eugenie Sage, and Forestry Minister Stuart Nash supported calls for an inquiry into the forestry industry's practices and accountability from forestry companies.[306]
On 13 March, Hipkins announced that the Government would be scrapping several policies and reform programmes including legislation to lower the voting age to 16 years, the speed reduction programme except for the most dangerous 1% of highways, and the NZ$586 million Clean Car Upgrade programme. In addition, the Government announced that it would delay or scale-back several policies and programmes including proposed alcohol reforms, the container return scheme, public transportation including the Auckland Light Rail, and public consultation on a new test to determine the difference between contractors and employees. The Government would redirect funding to a NZ$2 billion to a welfare package to provide "bread and butter" support to 1.4 million New Zealanders affected by the ongoing "cost of living" crisis.[307] In response, Green Party co-leader and Climate Change Minister James Shaw expressed disappointment with cutbacks of climate action policies such as the Clean Car Upgrade during the so-called "policy bonfire."[308] Meanwhile, Māori Party leader Debbie Ngarewa-Packer expressed concerned with the Government's abandonment of several climate change policies and urged Shaw to resign as Climate Change Minister.[309] The opposition National Party leader Christopher Luxon and deputy leader Nicola Willis welcomed the Government's decision to scrap so-called "wasteful" and "unpopular" policies but urged the Government to reduce spending and taxation. ACT Party leader David Seymour argued that New Zealanders needed a change in government and stated "that Hipkins U-turning on a tiny handful of policies isn't fooling anyone."[308][309]
In mid March 2023, the Government signed a cooperation agreement with Amazon Web Services to build large data centres in New Zealand. These data service centres will provide cloud storage services for government departments, local councils, schools, tertiary education providers, and other public service bodies. New Zealand currently does not have cloud storage facilities, with Australia providing the infrastructure and services.[310]
On 13 April 2023, the Government announced a major overhaul of its Three Waters reform programme, renaming it the Water Services Reform Programme. The proposed four water services entities were expanded into ten entities but will retain the same split co-governance structure consisting of representatives of local councils and mana whenua representatives.[311]
On 17 April, Hipkins and Education Minister Jan Tinetti announced plans to reduce class sizes for Years 4 to 8 pupils from 29 to 28 by the start of 2025. The Government also confirmed plans to increase the number of teachers by 320.[312] This policy received mixed responses from several principals including Lakeview School principal Tim Nelson, Rangikura School principal Eddie Uluilelata, Konini School deputy principal Khali Olivera, Te Kōmanawa Rowley School principal Graeme Norman, and Alwyn Poole of Innovative Education Consultants, who described it as insufficient and advocated smaller class sizes.[313]
On 4 May, Verrall launched the Government's 2023 Winter Health Plan with the national health service Te Whatu Ora playing a leading role. The Winter Health Plan consisted of 24 initiatives aimed at supporting community care and reducing hospital demand including telehealth services, remote patient monitoring, equipping pharmacies to treat minor ailments, community radiology services, improving access to allied health and community response services, investing in mental health services, bivalent COVID-19 boosters, and influenza vaccination campaigns, and recruiting international nurses and health professionals.[314]
On 14 May, Hipkins, Robertson, Wood, and Verrall announced that the Government would be allocating NZ$941 million from the 2023 New Zealand budget to addressing flood and cyclone damage caused by the 2023 Auckland Anniversary Weekend floods and Cyclone Gabrielle in the North Island. Of this sum, NZ$275 million would be allocated to Waka Kotahi and local councils to repairing damaged roads, NZ$200 million to repairing railways, NZ$117 million to repairing damaged schools, and NZ$35 million to covering various health services including mental health, general practitioners and frontline health workers.[315] The Government's flood and cyclone rescue package was welcomed by local government and health leaders including Mayor of WairoaCraig Little, Kerry Henderson of Napier Family Centre, and Hawke's Bay Regional Council chair Hinewai Ormsby. While the National Party's cyclone recovery spokesperson Chris Penk praised the investment in infrastructure, he expressed concerned about what he regarded as insufficient support for the horticulture sector.[316]
On 6 June, Health Minister Verrall announced that the Government would be introducing new rules to clamp down on vaping among youths. These rules include prohibiting the sale of disposable vapes from November 2023, reusable vapes from March 2024, child safety mechanisms, banning certain flavour names such as "cotton candy" and "strawberry jelly donut," and banning the establishment of new vape shops 300 metres of a school or marae.[317][318]
On 27 June, Tinetti and Robertson announced that the Government would be investing NZ$128 million to increase tuition subsidies at degree level and above by a further four percent between 2024 and 2025 for all tertiary institutions including universities, wānanga and the mega polytechnic Te Pūkenga. This funding injection came in response to several tertiary institutions including the University of Otago and Victoria University of Wellington announcing staff and subject cuts in response to financial difficulties. While Universities New Zealand chief executive Chris Whelan welcomed the funding injection, he said that it would not resolve all of the financial troubles that universities in New Zealand were facing.[319]
On 17 July, Hipkins announced the Government's youth justice policy which included introducing a new measure to punish adults convicted of influencing young people to commit crimes and making the publishing of recordings of criminal behaviour on social media an aggravating factor in sentencing. These legislative changes will not be implemented prior to the 2023 general election.[320] That same day, Labour campaigned on introducing several new youth crime policies including building two "high-needs units" within youth justice residences in Auckland and Christchurch, improving safety and security at existing youth justice residences, focusing on crime prevention measures including family group conferences, and empowering Family Courts to require youth offenders to perform community service including cleaning graffiti and rubbish disposal.[320] On 10 July, Hipkins announced that the Government would introduce legislation to make ram-raiding a criminal offence with a ten-year sentence and allowing 12 and 13-year old ram raiders to be tried in Youth Courts.[321]
On 31 July, Cyclone Recovery Minister Robertson proposed a cyclone recovery cost-sharing agreement with the Hawke's Bay Regional Council, Napier City Council, Hastings District Council, Wairoa District Council and Central Hawke's Bay District. This plan includes voluntary property buyouts, flood protection, and transport infrastructure repairs. In response, the five local councils announced that they would convene several extraordinary meetings to consider the Government's cost-sharing offer.[322] On 3 August, the five councils voted to accept the Government's NZ$556 million recovery cost-sharing package, which will be split evenly between the Government and local councils. The package consists of NZ$92.5 million for category 3 property buyouts in Hawke's Bay, NZ$203.5 million towards flood protection for category 2 areas between Wairoa and Pōrangahau, and NZ$260 million for repairing roads and bridges.[323] The Human Rights Commission's Chief Commissioner Paul Hunt criticised the lack of public consultation in the Government's cyclone recovery cost-sharing agreement.[324]
On 8 August, the Government entered into an agreement with US investment company BlackRock to set up a NZ$2 billion investment fund to help reach the Government's target of 100 percent renewable energy by 2030. The BlackRock investment fund will support solar, wind, green hydrogen, battery storage, and EV charging.[325]
On 16 August 2023, the Water Services Entities Amendment Act 2023 passed its third reading. The bill increased the number of water services entities from four to ten, setting 2026 as their inauguration date.[326] That same day, the Government passed the Natural and Built Environment Act 2023 and the Spatial Planning Act 2023, the first two laws in its planned overhaul of the Resource Management Act 1991.[327]
On 17 August, the Government unveiled a ten-year transport plan proposing that NZ$20 billion of funding on 14 new key roads and public transport links for public consultation.[328] On 18 August, Agricultural Minister Damien O'Connor announced a NZ$370 million plan to help farmers reduce carbon emissions over a five-ear period.[329]
On 23 August, the Government passed two final bills entrenching the Water Services Reform Programme: the Water Services Economic Efficiency and Consumer Protection Act 2023 and Water Services Legislation Act 2023. The first bill sets up an economic regulation regime overseen by the Commerce Commission as a watchdog over the water services entities' quality and efficiency, and mandates information disclosures. The second bill outlines the duties, functions, and powers of the new water services entities that would come into effect in 2026. National and ACT have opposed the water services reform programme and vowed to repeal them if elected into government following the 2023 New Zealand general election.[330]
On 29 August, the Government introduced a new bill, the Ram Raid Offending and Related Measures Amendment Bill, which adds "smash and grab" offenses to the Crimes Act 1961 and empower Police to prosecute juvenile ram raiders including 12 year olds. The bill seeks to address a recent rise in retail crimes including ram-raiding. While the bill was supported by the Labour, National and ACT parties, it was opposed by the Green and Māori parties.[331]
On 6 October, Minister of Conservation Willow-Jean Prime and Minister of Oceans and Fisheries Rachel Brooking announced that the Government would create six new marine reserves between Timaru and the Catlins in the lower South Island.[332]
In the 2023 New Zealand general election held on 14 October, the Labour Party lost its place as the largest party in parliament to the National Party.[333] In final results, Labour gained 26.91% of the popular vote and its share of parliamentary seats dropped from 64 to 34.[334] Hipkins conceded the election to National Party leader Christopher Luxon.[7][335] The Labour Government remained in a caretaker capacity until the release of final results on 3 November 2023.[336]
On 17 October, the Government contributed NZ$5 million to the International Committee of the Red Cross's (ICRC) and the United Nations' World Food Programme's humanitarian relief efforts in response to the 2023 Israel-Hamas war.[337] On 25 October Carolyn Schwalger, New Zealand's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, delivered a statement from Hipkins to the United Nations Security Council calling for a "humanitarian pause" to allow Gazan civilians to receive aid and for the creation of safe zones for civilians during the 2023 Israel-Hamas war. Hipkins authored the statement in consultation with incoming Prime Minister Luxon.[338] On 28 October, New Zealand voted in favour of United Nations General Assembly Resolution ES-10/21.[339]
In early November 2023, Deputy Prime Minister Sepuloni along with the National Party's foreign affairs spokesperson Gerry Brownlee represented New Zealand at the 2023 Pacific Islands Forum.[340] While Sepuloni attended a leaders' retreat in Aitutaki, Brownlee held meetings with several non-Pacific representatives from Cuba, Portugal, France and South Korea in Rarotonga.[341] On 10 November, Hipkins and Luxon agreed to advise Governor-General Cindy Kiro to prolong the caretaker government arrangement until the conclusion of coalition talks for the incoming National-led government. While Hipkins continued to serve as caretaker Prime Minister, other ministers except Nanaia Mahuta continued to serve in their portfolios. Grant Robertson assumed Mahuta's foreign affairs portfolio while Willie Jackson assumed the associate Māori development portfolio.[342]
In mid-November 2023, outgoing Trade Minister Damien O'Connor represented New Zealand at the 2023 APEC summit since incoming Prime Minister Luxon was unable to participate due to coalition negotiations with ACT and NZ First.[343] By 18 November, Hipkins confirmed that the Government had sent a total of NZ$10 million to support humanitarian activities by the International Committee of the Red Cross and World Food Programme in Israel and the Palestinian Territories in response to the Israel-Hamas war.[344]
Following the conclusion of coalition negotiations between National, ACT and New Zealand First on 24 November,[345] the new National-led coalition government was sworn into office on 27 November.[8]
Election results
The following table shows the total party votes and seats in Parliament won by Labour, plus any parties supporting a Labour-led government in coalition or with confidence and supply.
Established a $1 billion Regional Development Fund[13]
Introduced a wage subsidy scheme for all workers unable to attend work during the nationwide lockdown resulting from COVID-19. This was later extended until October 2020.[346]
Interest-free loans were introduced for businesses as part of a package of economic policies in response to COVID-19[347]
New Mana in Mahi program introduced to encourage employers, through wage subsidies, to take on young beneficiaries[355]
Signed a pay equity deal with education support workers to increase pay by 30%[356]
Pay for early childhood education workers was boosted in 2020, with the government increasing education and care services' subsidy rates[357]
Apprenticeship fees were scrapped from 1 July 2020 as a response to the economic downturn resulting from COVID-19
Paid sick leave was doubled from five days to ten per year[358]
Environment
Hold a Clean Waters Summit to examine water and lake pollution[349][needs update]
Established a Zero-Carbon Act with the goal of net zero emissions of carbon dioxide by 2050 and a 24-47% reduction in methane emissions relative to 2017[13][359]
Ceased tendering any new off-shore oil and gas exploration permits[31]
Phased out single-use plastic bags and other single-use plastic items including plastic produce bags, polystyrene takeaway containers and plastic plates, bowls and cutlery[362][363]
Fuel tax excise was increased, and local governments were enabled to charge regional fuel taxes. In 2022 in response to increasing inflation the fuel excise was cut by 25 cents, road user charges were reduced and public transport fares halved.[366]
Rolling increases to tobacco excise, in place since 2010, were cancelled in 2020[367]
The top rate of income tax was raised from 33% to 39% for those earning over $180,000 from 1 April 2021
Announced plans to initiate a Closer Commonwealth Economic Relations (CCER) agreement with the UK, Australia, Canada and other Commonwealth countries[368]
Announced a pilot programme for free counselling for young adults[citation needed]
Signed a pay equity deal for mental health and addiction support workers[citation needed]
A bill banning smoking in cars with children present was passed[378]
A plan to provide free female sanitary products in secondary schools by 2021 was initiated[379]
Pill testing at summer festivals was legalised[380]
Housing
This section needs to be updated. The reason given is: missing March 2021 housing announcements. Please help update this article to reflect recent events or newly available information. (March 2021)
Extended the bright-line test, which requires tax to be paid on the increase in value of a property resold within a given period, to five years. Later extended further to ten years.[381]
Restricted foreigners (with the exception of Australian citizens) from buying existing residential homes[382][383]
Building consents for low risk projects, such as garden sheds and sleepouts, were scrapped.[384]
Legislation improving rights for renters was passed, which included rent increases being limited to once per year. No cause evictions were also scrapped.[385]
A shared ownership scheme with Kāinga Ora was introduced to assist first home buyers.[386]
Immigration
Reduce net immigration by 20,000–30,000 a year.[350][349][387] Ardern later said there would be no immediate cut to immigration[388]
Commit to a target that by 2025 that every student from ECE, Primary, Intermediate and Secondary has Te Reo Māori integrated into their learning[citation needed]
Secondary schools give students the chance to choose Te Reo Māori as a main subject[citation needed]
Ensure that all early childhood, primary school, and intermediate school teachers are provided with an opportunity to undertake lessons in Te Reo Māori[citation needed]
Provide dedicated scholarships to increase the number of Te Reo Māori teachers and ensure that Te Reo Māori is available as an option in all secondary schools[citation needed]
Primary production
Announced plans for a royalty on exports of bottled waters[13]
The Family Tax Credit, Orphans Benefit, Accommodation Supplement, and Foster Care Allowance were all substantially increased as part of Labour's Families Package[403]
Introduced legislation to set a child poverty reduction target[349]
Set a target to eliminate the gender pay gap within the public sector[13]
A lunch programme was introduced for low decile schools.[404]
Welfare benefits were increased in response to COVID-19 and the Winter Energy Payment was temporarily doubled
Funding for sexual and domestic violence services was significantly increased[405]
Increased main benefits by $25 per week effective from 1 April 2020.[406]
A weekly tax-free "income relief" payment was introduced for workers made redundant during the economic fall out of COVID-19.[407]
Social security benefits were indexed to wages instead of the Consumer Price Index, this would double the amount of benefit dependent persons would have otherwise received without wage indexation[408]
Increased abatement thresholds from $90 per week to $160 before social security benefits are abated.[409]
The 2021 budget substantially raised benefits, between $32 and $55 per week, for persons dependent on social security payments and will be fully implemented by April 2022.[needs update][410]
Passed an amendment to the Births, Deaths, Marriages and Relationships Act making self-identification easier by removing the requirement for transgender New Zealanders to provide medical proof of medical treatment or a Family Court declaration before sex can be changed on a birth certificate.[411]
Feasibility study of moving the Port of Auckland to Northport, Whangarei, and upgrades of road and rail to Northport; as part of Labour-NZ First agreement[419][420]
$12 billion was set aside to invest in the 'New Zealand Upgrade Programme', providing funding for infrastructure projects[421]
Controversies and issues
2018 Labour Party youth camp sexual assaults
On 12 March 2018, allegations of multiple sexual assaults at the Young Labour Summer School at Waitawheta Camp in Waihi emerged. It was alleged that a 20-year-old man put his hands down the pants of four sixteen-year-olds on the second night of the camp, which occurred a month earlier. It was reported that there were "mountains of alcohol" present at the camp, and that people under the legal drinking age of eighteen were consuming alcohol. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern was not informed of the allegations by party leadership, despite them knowing a month earlier. Support had not been offered to the victims, something Ardern said she was "deeply sorry" for.[422][423] Ardern did not fire any of her party staffers who failed to act on information of the allegations and inform her. Former Prime Minister of the Fifth Labour GovernmentHelen Clark criticised this response, saying "heads would have rolled" if she was at the helm.[424]
In late November 2019, the man, who had pleaded guilty to two charges of indecent assault, was discharged without conviction.[425][426] In response, one of the male victims expressed disappointment with the court decision, stating that they had lost faith in the justice system.[427][428]
Ministerial resignations
On 24 May 2018, Transport Minister Phil Twyford resigned from his Civil Aviation portfolio after making an unauthorised phone call on a domestic flight as the plane was taking off, a violation of civil aviation laws. The matter had been raised by Opposition Transport spokesperson Judith Collins.[429]
On 24 August, Ardern announced the removal of Clare Curran from Cabinet, and stripped her of her Open Government and Government Digital Services porfolios. These were reassigned to Education Minister Chris Hipkins and Energy and Resources Minister Megan Woods respectively. Curran's sacking was the result of her failure to disclose that she had held informal meetings with entrepreneur Derek Handley in November 2017 and February 2018, which could have created potential conflicts of interest.[430][431][432] After a poor performance while answering a question from National's spokesperson for Broadcasting Melissa Lee during Question Time, Curran announced that she was stepping down as Minister for Broadcasting. She was to remain as MP for Dunedin-South, and Kris Faafoi resumed her Broadcasting portfolio.[433][434]
On 30 August 2018, Customs Minister Meka Whaitiri "stood aside" from her ministerial portfolios as part of an investigation into an allegation that she assaulted a staff member in her ministerial office. Ardern announced that Ministerial Services was investigating the allegations. Fellow Labour MP Kris Faafoi assumed the role of Acting Minister of Customs while her associate ministerial portfolios were assumed by their lead ministers.[435][436][437] On 20 September 2018, Ardern announced that she had fired Whaitiri from all of her ministerial portfolios. Ardern said that while aspects of the incident were disputed by Whaitiri, an incident involving Whaitiri manhandling and bullying a new staff member "undoubtedly took place". Kris Faafoi took over her portfolio of Customs. Whaitiri is to remain as the MP for Ikaroa-Rawhiti.[438][439]
Karel Sroubek
In late October and early November 2018, the Immigration Minister Iain Lees-Galloway drew criticism from the opposition National Party for his decision to grant residency to the convicted Czech drug smuggler Karel Sroubek. It subsequently emerged that Sroubek had a lengthy criminal record in both the Czech Republic and New Zealand. The case also attracted considerable media interest in New Zealand and led the Czech government to announce that it would seek Sroubek's extradition.[440][441] In mid-December 2018, Lees-Galloway attributed his decision to grant Sroubek residency to incomplete information provided by Immigration New Zealand about Sroubek's criminal record.[442]
2019 Labour Party sexual assault allegations
In early August 2019, several reports emerged about allegations of bullying, sexual harassment, and resignations from the Labour Party. Media were told that the formal complaints did not involve sexual assaults.[443][444] On 9 September, the online media outlet The Spinoff published an exclusive report by a 19-year-old female Labour Party volunteer alleging that she had been sexually assaulted by a Labour Party staffer.[445] In response to the report, Ardern said that she was repeatedly told by Labour that the complaint was not about sexual assault and that a review by Maria Dew QC will clear up the contradictory claims. The woman has stood by her claims while Labour Party President Nigel Haworth defended his handling of the complaints process.[443][444]
On 11 September, Haworth resigned as Labour Party President following criticism of his handling of the complaints about the male staffer from several Labour Party members including bullying, harassment, and sexual assault. Earlier investigations had exonerated the man of these various claims.[446][447] These sexual assault allegations attracted coverage from several international media including the AFP, The Washington Post, Seven News, The Times, and The Sydney Morning Herald.[447][448]
That same day, the National Party's deputy leader Paula Bennett claimed under parliamentary privilege that several of the Prime Minister's senior staff members and a Cabinet minister including Ardern's former chief of staff Mike Munro, current chief press secretary Andrew Campbell, and the director of the Labour leader's office Rob Salmond were aware of the sexual allegations.[449]
On 12 September, the male Labour staffer accused of bullying and sexual assault resigned. He stated that he was cooperating with the Dew Inquiry and denied the allegations against him.[450][451] On 16 September, Ardern announced that Labour would be holding a second inquiry into its response to the sexual assault allegations made against the staffer. Simon Mitchell, the lawyer tasked with leading Labour's investigation into the misconduct, stated that he was unaware of the sexual assault allegations until they were first reported by the media. National Party deputy leader Bennett claimed that the proposed inquiry did not go far enough and alleged that Finance Minister Grant Robertson had been aware of the sexual assault allegations as early as June 2019.[452][453]
On 18 December, Labour Party President Claire Szabo released the report by Maria Dew QC. While Dew's report found insufficient evidence to support allegations of sexual assault and harassment, it found that the former Labour Party staffer had shown "overbearing and aggressive" behaviour on five occasions. Dew recommended a letter cautioning the former staffer and that he write a letter of apology and participate in a restorative justice process with the victim.[454][455]
Shane Jones
In November 2019, Infrastructure Minister and NZ First MP Shane Jones claimed Indian arranged marriages to be a sham and not adhering to the New Zealand way of life. His comments, described as racist, went unchallenged from the Labour cabinet ministers. He also claimed that arranged marriage partners' visa rules would not apply anymore following changes to the immigration rules.[456] Following a protest in Auckland, Immigration MinisterIain Lees-Galloway explained that immigration rules on arranged marriages were unchanged and clarified the misinformation provided by Shane Jones. Jones made further inflammatory comments against Indian students in January 2020.[457]
Kris Faafoi
In December 2019, Broadcasting Minister Kris Faafoi was criticised after offering to speed up an immigration visa application for Opshop singer Jason Kerrison's father. Opposition Leader Simon Bridges claimed that Faafoi's actions if proven constituted a conflict of interest that breached Cabinet rules. Faafoi subsequently apologised to Ardern.[458][459][460][461]
David Clark
In early April 2020, Health Minister David Clark drew widespread criticism when he flouted the level four lockdown restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic in New Zealand on two occasions. This included driving two kilometres away from his home in Dunedin to ride a mountain bike trail and later driving his family 20 kilometres to a Dunedin beach for a family outing during the first week of the lockdown. After admitting to the two incidents on separate occasions, Clark offered his resignation as Health Minister to Ardern. Ardern declined to accept his resignation but stripped him of his Associate Finance Ministerial portfolio and demoted him to the bottom of Labour's Cabinet list.[462][463][464][465]
However, Clark subsequently resigned on 2 July,[466] and was replaced in Health by Chris Hipkins[467] while Housing Minister Megan Woods assumed responsibility for Border Management.[468]
2020 Green School controversy
On 27 August 2020, Associate Finance Minister Shaw attracted criticism from the opposition National Party's education spokesperson Nicola Willis, school principals, teachers unions' and several members of his own Green Party after he allocated NZ$11.7 million from the Government's $3 billion COVID-19 recovery fund to the private "Green School New Zealand" in Taranaki. This funding boost violated the Green Party's own policy of private schools receiving state funds. Shaw had defended the decision, claiming it would have created 200 jobs and boosted the local economy. The Education Minister Chris Hipkins stated that he would not have prioritised funding for the private school and sympathised with state schools' dissatisfaction with Shaw's decision.[469] Following considerable criticism, Shaw apologised for approving the funding of the Green School, describing it as "an error of judgment" on 1 September. Representatives of the school have reportedly approach the Crown to convert part or all off the Government's grant into a loan.[470] On 2 November, it was reported that Michael and Rachel Perrett, the owners of the Green School, had reached a settlement for the Government's NZ$11.7 million grant to be converted into a loan; a development that was welcomed by local principals.[471]
Alleged abuse of Parliamentary question time
In July 2021, the ACT party alleged that the Labour Government had spent $4 million-worth of Parliament's time asking itself questions since the 2020 election, in response to criticism of ACT's use of 15 minutes to ask its leader David Seymour questions about his member's bill, which has been described as "extremely unlikely to ever become law." Ministers being asked questions by their own party's MPs has been a feature of Question Time under successive governments for decades. The Shadow Leader of the House, National MP Chris Bishop, who has been critical of the use of "patsy questions" in the past,[472] said that Seymour was showing "remarkable hutzpah" in complaining about the practice the day after making use of it himself.[473][474]
List of executive members
First meeting of the Cabinet of the Sixth Labour Government, 26 October 2017
On 20 October, Jacinda Ardern announced that the Cabinet would consist of 20 members, of which 16 would be from the Labour Party and 4 from New Zealand First. A further five Labour MPs would sit outside of Cabinet, along with three Green MPs. On 27 June 2019, a cabinet reshuffle occurred.[44][475]
On 2 November 2020, after the 2020 election, a new cabinet reflective of the Labour majority was announced.[476] It was sworn in on 6 November 2020. On 14 June 2022, a cabinet reshuffle occurred.[477]
Chris Hipkins succeeded Ardern as prime minister on 25 January 2023 and a minor cabinet reshuffle occurred to reallocate Ardern's and Hipkins' previous portfolios, as well as the appointment of Carmel Sepuloni as deputy prime minister.[478] Hipkins announced a wider reshuffle of portfolios the following week, on 31 January.[298][299]
^Paranihi, Regan (30 November 2018). "Govt to slash GP fees". Māori Television. Archived from the original on 24 January 2019. Retrieved 24 January 2019.
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