Politics
Watch: Luxon delivers state of the nation speech, wants National ministers to write new planning rules
Luxon acknowledged it had been a 'tough time' for Kiwi households and businesses.
Latest from NZ National Party
Stories and analysis from The Northern Express Herald.
Election 2026: Economy, health set to dominate the Beehive this year
We dive into where each party stands, what they’ve announced thus far, and what the election campaign could bring us with Newstalk ZB political reporter Ethan Griffiths.
Richard Prebble: How to achieve real bipartisanship on infrastructure
OPINION: Do the Chrises agree on more than we realise?
'Planning by firing squad': The Auckland suburbs facing three-storey housing
Fifteen-storey blocks will be allowed in 22 areas near CBD and transport hubs.
Fran O'Sullivan: Why India's FTA win could reshape our exports – and our politics
OPINION: The deal will cut or scrap tariffs on 95% of New Zealand exports to India.
Govt confirms plan to sell Chorus debt, will invest in infrastructure
The sale will fund schools, hospitals and roads, Finance Minister Nicola Willis said.
'Utterly disappointing': Gisborne politicians split over RMA reforms
The new planning system is expected to fully replace the Resource Management Act by 2027.
Ruth Richardson won't 'be party to a circus', backs out of debate with Nicola Willis
The Taxpayers' Union recently ran an anti-Willis campaign with branded fudge.
Labour's Edmonds says Government 'lost control of the economy' but won't say what actions her party will take
Kiwis will have to wait a while longer to find out.
'Perfect day': MP marries long-time partner in surprise home wedding
Only 44 guests were invited to the surprise ceremony for friends and family.
All I want for Christmas is a break from you – PM's gift to coalition partners
Christopher Luxon's gift to his coalition partners is a break from each other.
'Absolutely laughable': Government ministers take aim at UN over report criticising NZ treatment of Māori
The report was released by a UN committee focused on race relations.
'Clowns to the left of me, jokers to the right': Nicola Willis hits back
The Finance Minister has a fiscal scrap on her hands and a debate-date dilemma too.
Taxpayers' Union releases fudge taking swipe at Nicola Willis
The Finance Minister has responded, saying she would not comment on silly stunts.
New political poll: Greens, TPM lose chunk of support
The poll is one of the last major polls of 2025.
Coster denies knowing of protocol to redirect McSkimming emails, minister says 'unfathomable'
The former Police Commissioner has spoken for the first time about the scandal.
Govt rejects all of Climate Change Commission's emissions target recommendations
A tougher 2050 net-negative goal for carbon dioxide has been rejected.
Audrey Young: Coster's apology had all the feeling of a piece of wood
OPINION: The former police boss's resignation statement was barely adequate.
Lies, conspiracy theories and a scone – tempers flare in parliamentary clash
MPs clashed in Parliament this morning, hurling insults at each other.
'Stop doing dumb stuff': Govt rubbishes concern rates cap will degrade public services
Councils wanting rate rises above the cap would need approval from a new regulator.
Popular social media identity working in Labour leader's office – private post falls foul of Speaker
Gerry Brownlee says he will crack down on any social posts that breach standing orders.
Revealed: Councils expected to foot a near $48 billion bill for Local Water Done Well
Officials estimate water service infrastructure will cost $47.9 billion to 2034.
Dallas Gurney: 'National is screwing small business' – here's what needs to change
OPINION: It's about time small businesses got a little louder and fought back.
Editorial: Caution needed moving forward with regional reforms
OPINION: Mayors would gain extra responsibilities through new Combined Territories Boards.
Lifting Kiwisaver contributions to 12% makes sense – when the whole scheme is fixed
OPINION: Nearly 26% of New Zealanders say they're struggling to get by financially.
The Country: Luxon talks KiwiSaver and NZ Super
Christopher Luxon, Wayne Langford, Tracy Brown and Hunter McGregor all featured.
Andrew Little says poll pressure key to his 2017 exit, weighs in on Christopher Luxon's leadership woes
'[It's] about understanding the impact you're having on others.'
PM's office clarifies Luxon's suggestion he isn't concerned for National MPs who could lose seats
Chris Bishop has also addressed speculation about a leadership coup.
Christopher Luxon defiant amid talk he could be rolled as National leader
He says he will be Prime Minister heading into next year.
Election 2026: Nats pledge to lift default KiwiSaver contribution rates
Christopher Luxon has announced National's first election policy.