New Zealand First is gathering in Auckland for its party conference and election campaign launch as polling shows the party reaching 11.5% support, its highest level in nearly a decade. Leader Winston Peters attributed the shift in voter support to the party’s focus on nationalism, while the convention highlighted internal concerns ranging from “demographic engineering” to medical mandates.
Shifting Voter Allegiances and Party Growth
The party’s recent polling success, recorded in an RNZ-Reid Research poll, marks a third consecutive increase for New Zealand First. This growth coincides with a decline for the National Party, which dropped to 28.7% support, its lowest level under leader Christopher Luxon. During the conference, which drew approximately 380 delegates, several attendees identified as former National Party members. One delegate described her transition from National to New Zealand First, stating she felt National’s policy stance had become “too weak.” Another member remarked that she felt the party was “the one that I think probably matches what I believe this country should be doing.”
Core Concerns: Nationalism and “Demographic Engineering”
At the conference, deputy leader Shane Jones warned attendees about “demographic engineering,” stating that the party must not be “cowered by the vested interests and the more powerful, voluminous parties.” While reporters later asked for clarification on his comments, Jones did not elaborate, directing inquiries to a speech scheduled for later in the day. Other party members expressed concerns regarding “globalist governments” and individual medical choices. One attendee, who identified as a Christian, expressed opposition to mandates for experimental medications and said she felt unheard by her medical practitioner regarding her personal choice to decline regular mammograms.
Campaign Strategy and Future Leadership
Winston Peters officially signaled the start of the campaign by labeling the event “round 33,” a reference to the party’s 33rd anniversary. The event featured a mix of veteran members and new figures, including former Labour ministers Rino Tirikatene and Stuart Nash, as well as former National MPs like Michael Laws and Alfred Ngaro. Regarding the potential composition of a future cabinet, Peters stated he remains removed from the list process. When asked about potential roles for experienced members, including former minister Ron Mark, Peters noted that “there’s going to be a long list.”
Upcoming Policy Remits
Delegates are scheduled to vote on several policy remits over the weekend. These proposals include advocating for merit-based university admissions, funding winter wellness checks for seniors, and reaffirming a policy of “one law for all.” The party also aims to address national sovereignty by potentially rejecting international trade agreements that it believes could compromise parliamentary supremacy or independent immigration policy. As the convention continues, the party’s focus remains on what Peters described as building the country back to its former “greatness,” while members prepare for the upcoming election.
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