New Zealand National Party

Brownlee calls on Government to come clean

Gerry Brownlee August 05, 2020 Share

The Government needs to come clean on what they know about the state of Covid-19 in New Zealand,” National’s Covid-19 Border Response Spokesperson, Gerry Brownlee says.

Kelvin Davis must apologise to the travel industry

Todd McClay August 05, 2020 Share

The Government must step up and provide a clear plan for outbound tourism and travel operators so they can avoid large scale job loss, National’s Tourism spokesperson Todd McClay says.

Unemployment figures don’t tell the full story

Paul Goldsmith August 05, 2020 Share

The unemployment figures released today don’t reflect the sad reality for hundreds of thousands of New Zealanders who have found themselves unemployed in the past months, National’s Finance spokesperson Paul Goldsmith says.

$4 billion investment to end Wellington’s congestion woes

Judith Collins August 05, 2020 Share

A National Government will invest another $4 billion in transport infrastructure across Wellington, igniting the economy and delivering the congestion-busting solutions the region has long been crying out for, National Party Leader Judith Collins says.

National announces $330 million in new transport projects for Horowhenua and the Kāpiti Coast

Judith Collins August 03, 2020 Share

National will unlock the economic potential of Horowhenua and Kāpiti by connecting Ōtaki to Wellington’s electric commuter train network and fast-tracking construction of a four-lane expressway between Ōtaki and Levin, National Party Leader Judith Collins has announced.

Labour needs to explain how it will repay NZ’s debt

Paul Goldsmith August 03, 2020 Share

With the election only weeks away, Labour needs to clearly explain to voters how it intends to repay the massive debt it is taking on to deal with Covid-19 – and whether its plan will involve higher taxes, National’s Finance spokesperson Paul Goldsmith says.

New Zealanders support charging at the border

Gerry Brownlee August 02, 2020 Share

The Government’s proposal to introduce very limited border charging for managed quarantine is little more than spin and highly disrespectful of New Zealanders who think there should be a higher level of cost recovery, National’s COVID-19 Border Response spokesperson Gerry Brownlee says

Kiwis need more than two-trick pony on economy

Paul Goldsmith August 02, 2020 Share

Massive debt-fuelled spending and keeping the border tight are necessary but insufficient to restore our economy and create jobs, National’s Finance spokesperson Paul Goldsmith says.

Years of inaction from Government on vaping

Nicky Wagner August 01, 2020 Share

Labour has failed to achieve anything on vaping since they’ve come into Government, resulting in countless teens taking up the habit, National List MP Nicky Wagner says.

Shovels Sit Idle In Wellington

Nicola Willis July 23, 2020 Share

Nicola Willis, National’s List MP based in Wellington is calling on Labour to fully release the list of shovel ready projects and get Kiwis back to work.

National selects Joseph Mooney for Southland

National Party July 31, 2020 Share

Today the National Party has selected Joseph Mooney to stand in the Southland electorate for the 2020 General Election.

Job losses pile up under Government with no plan

Paul Goldsmith July 31, 2020 Share

Today’s troubling revelation that another 1500 Kiwis lost their jobs this week highlights the need for a sound economic plan to get us through the current jobs crisis, National’s Finance spokesperson Paul Goldsmith says.

Release the list, Prime Minister

Judith Collins July 31, 2020 Share

As jobless numbers mount up, Jacinda Ardern needs to front up and release the list of shovel-ready projects that will provide much needed work for New Zealanders, Leader of the Opposition Judith Collins says.

Labour inconsistent in treatment of Warriors players

Gerry Brownlee July 31, 2020 Share

Labour is completely inconsistent in their handling of two New Zealand Warriors players trying to get home, National’s Covid-19 Border Response spokesman Gerry Brownlee says.

Random roadside drug testing Bill welcome

Nick Smith July 30, 2020 Share

National welcomes the introduction today of the Land Transport (Drug Driving) Amendment Bill that enables Police to randomly test for drug impairment, National’s Drug Reform spokesperson Nick Smith says.

Waka-jumping repeal Bill passes first reading

David Carter July 30, 2020 Share

The Electoral (Integrity Repeal) Amendment Bill has passed its first reading, marking one step closer to Parliament getting rid of NZ First’s ‘waka-jumping’ legislation, National List MP David Carter says.

Jones overseeing a ‘treacle-riddled’ PGF

Michael Woodhouse July 29, 2020 Share

It’s been three years and despite many, many questions, New Zealanders still have no idea whether the Provincial Growth Fund has created the jobs it was intended to, National’s Regional Economic Development spokesperson Michael Woodhouse says.

Collins hits back at KiwiSaver funds manager

Judith Collins July 29, 2020 Share

National Leader Judith Collins has hit back at funds manager Rupert Carlyon of Kōura Wealth KiwiSaver, for his criticisms of National’s BusinessStart plan, which allow Kiwis to access $20,000 of their own money to start a new business.

Release the list, Grant

Chris Bishop July 29, 2020 Share

Grant Robertson’s repeated refusal to tell Parliament how many shovel-ready projects have been through due diligence but are yet to be announced by the Government is the height of arrogance, National’s Transport and Infrastructure spokesperson Chris Bishop says.

Collins claims victory over RMA

Judith Collins July 29, 2020 Share

National Leader Judith Collins is claiming victory after Labour’s Resource Management Act (RMA) Working Group has finally recommended this morning to scrap the RMA and replacing it with a Natural and Built Environments Act and a Strategic Planning Act.

National to unleash entrepreneurial and job-creation explosion

Judith Collins July 29, 2020 Share

National’s plan will unleash an entrepreneurial and job-creation explosion over the next 17 months, which economists say will be the toughest times any living New Zealand has ever known, National Party Leader Judith Collins says.

National will fast-track Palmerston North ring road

Judith Collins July 27, 2020 Share

National will begin work on Palmerston’s North’s long-awaited rural ring road within six months of forming Government to stimulate the Manawatū economy and create new jobs, National Party Leader Judith Collins has announced.

Labour/Green Govt certain to raise tax & destroy jobs

Paul Goldsmith July 27, 2020 Share

The one certainty about a Labour-Green Government is that it would raise the taxes Kiwi families and small businesses are forced to pay - and destroy jobs in the process, National’s Finance Spokesman Paul Goldsmith says.

Brownlee dismisses poll as ‘rogue’

Gerry Brownlee July 26, 2020 Share

National Campaign Chairman Gerry Brownlee says tonight’s Newshub poll is a rogue.

Increasing mistakes compromise coronavirus safety

Shane Reti July 24, 2020 Share

This incompetent Government’s poor management of coronavirus isolation facilities is continuing to put New Zealanders at risk, National’s Health spokesperson Shane Reti says.

Quarantine absconders should meet cost of apprehension

Gerry Brownlee July 25, 2020 Share

The Hamilton 5 quarantine breakout is alarming and the absconders must foot the bill, National’s COVID-19 Border Response spokesperson Gerry Brownlee says.

Time for Ardern to come clean on Ihumātao

Judith Collins July 26, 2020 Share

Opposition Leader Judith Collins is calling on Jacinda Ardern to be upfront with New Zealanders before the election and say whether a Crown deal for Ihumātao is on the table.

National to adopt Parliamentary code of conduct

Judith Collins July 24, 2020 Share

Leader of the Opposition Judith Collins will recommend to her National Party caucus colleagues that the party signs up to Parliament’s code of conduct.

National announces Bay of Plenty/Coromandel transport package

Chris Bishop July 24, 2020 Share

National’s Bay of Plenty and Coromandel transport package will create hundreds of jobs and drive economic growth across this fast-growing region, National’s Transport spokesperson Chris Bishop says.

National OIA’s Prime Minister to release the list

Judith Collins July 24, 2020 Share

National’s Leader has issued an Official Information Act request demanding that Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and her government release the remaining list of shovel-ready projects immediately.

It’s about growth and disciplined spending, not borrow, borrow, borrow

Paul Goldsmith July 24, 2020 Share

The best path back to prudent levels of debt in a decade or more is an absolute focus on economic growth, combined with disciplined spending, National’s Finance Spokesperson Paul Goldsmith said today.

No hope, no solutions

Andrew Bayly July 22, 2020 Share

The Minister for Small Business cannot offer anything new for small businesses, National’s spokesperson for Small Business and Manufacturing Andrew Bayly says.

Crimes have victims, Davis

Simeon Brown July 23, 2020 Share

Corrections Minister Kelvin Davis is ignorant of the harm caused when people break the law, National’s Corrections spokesperson Simeon Brown says.

Govt’s border exceptions are costing Kiwis jobs

Stuart Smith July 23, 2020 Share

The Government’s current border exceptions are failing to respond to the needs of New Zealand businesses and it’s costing Kiwis jobs, National’s Immigration spokesperson Stuart Smith says.

Comprehensive medicinal cannabis bill drawn

Shane Reti July 23, 2020 Share

My Member’s Bill to implement a comprehensive medicinal cannabis regime that would widen access to medicinal cannabis and license high quality domestic production, has been drawn in Parliament, MP for Whangarei Shane Reti says.

New Bill to improve access to justice

Chris Bishop July 23, 2020 Share

A Member’s Bill to improve access to justice by making it easier for lawyers to do work outside their existing employment has been draw from the ballot, Hutt South MP Chris Bishop says.

Release the secret $5 billion list to get Kiwis working

Judith Collins July 23, 2020 Share

Nearly 135,000 work-ready Kiwis and tens of thousands of construction workers desperately need Labour to release its secret list of $5 billion worth of shovel-ready projects today, Leader of the Opposition Judith Collins has demanded.

Member’s Bill to notify schools of sex offenders drawn

Matt Doocey July 23, 2020 Share

Today my Member’s Bill that would require the Department of Corrections to notify schools of sex offenders placed in their local communities was drawn in Parliament, Waimakariri MP Matt Doocey says.

National announces Wairarapa transport package

Judith Collins July 23, 2020 Share

National will create hundreds of new jobs and boost the Wairarapa economy by delivering a suite of transport projects to get the region moving, National Party Leader Judith Collins says.

Release the list, Ms Ardern

Judith Collins July 22, 2020 Share

National Leader Judith Collins is demanding Labour Leader Jacinda Ardern release the list of the shovel-ready projects her Government has agreed to fund but is keeping secret for political reasons.

Labour failure on shovel-ready projects costing thousands of jobs

Judith Collins July 22, 2020 Share

“Tens of thousands of jobs are on the line as Labour sits on its hands over the shovel-ready project scheme,” National Party Leader Judith Collins said today.

National will fix First Responders Bill

Simeon Brown July 22, 2020 Share

While National supports increased protections for first responders and tougher penalties for offenders but wants a Bill that works, National’s Corrections spokesperson Simeon Brown says.

Law to crack down on gangs one step closer

Brett Hudson July 22, 2020 Share

National’s Firearms Prohibition Order’s (FPO) Bill has finally passed its first reading, National’s Police spokesperson Brett Hudson says.

Scrutiny needed for medical examinations in isolation

Shane Reti July 22, 2020 Share

This clumsy and incompetent Government needs to make sure that people in coronavirus isolation aren’t being subjected to illegal medical examinations, National’s Health spokesperson Dr Shane Reti says.

Economic crisis deepens and business confidence drops

Paul Goldsmith July 21, 2020 Share

The economic and jobs crisis is looking even worse on the back of news that confidence among small businesses has plunged to an all-time low, National’s Finance spokesperson Paul Goldsmith says.

Early intervention times continue to blowout

Nicola Willis July 21, 2020 Share

The Associate Minister of Education has confirmed that this clumsy and incompetent Government has failed to deliver on the Prime Minister’s 2018 promise to reduce early intervention times for young children, National’s Education spokesperson Nicola Willis says.

Under Kelvin Davis, criminals get off lightly

Simeon Brown July 20, 2020 Share

Corrections Minister Kelvin Davis continues to let down victims of crime, as more than half of those who received Community Work sentences over lockdown have not met the terms of their sentence, National’s Corrections spokesperson Simeon Brown says.

National slams Labour for opposing Upper North Island Expressway

Chris Bishop July 18, 2020 Share

National’s Transport and Infrastructure Spokesman Chris Bishop has slammed the Labour Party for opposing National’s Plan to connect Whangarei, Auckland, Hamilton and Tauranga.

National will build Christchurch to Ashburton Expressway

Todd Muller July 08, 2020 Share

The next National Government will drive our economy forward and create hundreds of jobs by delivering a new four-lane expressway between Christchurch and Ashburton, National Party Leader Todd Muller has announced.

National to charge for quarantine

Gerry Brownlee July 19, 2020 Share

Everyone entering New Zealand from 11.59pm on 3 October 2020 will be charged a fee to partially meet the costs of their quarantine under a National Government, National’s Covid-19 Border Response spokesman Gerry Brownlee says.

National will smash congestion with intergenerational funding

Chris Bishop July 17, 2020 Share

National will deliver a record level of congestion-busting transport infrastructure if elected in September, Transport spokesperson Chris Bishop says.

National will bring the congestion crisis to an end

Judith Collins July 17, 2020 Share

National will fix the Auckland and upper North Island congestion crisis, and get New Zealand moving again, National Party Leader Judith Collins says.

Judith Collins thanks outgoing National MPs

Judith Collins July 16, 2020 Share

Leader of the Opposition Judith Collins has thanked National MPs Nikki Kaye and Amy Adams for their contributions to politics, following their decisions not to stand for re-election in 2020.

Amy Adams confirms retirement from politics at 2020 election

Amy Adams July 16, 2020 Share

Amy Adams has announced that she will not take up the offer of a list position for the New Zealand National Party for the 2020 election.

Judith Collins announces caucus reshuffle

Judith Collins July 16, 2020 Share

Leader of the Opposition Judith Collins has today announced a reshuffle to the National Party caucus line-up.

Nikki Kaye to retire from politics at 2020 election

Nikki Kaye July 16, 2020 Share

Nikki Kaye, MP for Auckland Central, has today officially announced that she will retire from politics at the 2020 election.

500 per cent waste levy increase another tax on Kiwis

Scott Simpson July 15, 2020 Share

Today’s announcement that the Government is massively increasing the waste levy will hurt Kiwi’s back pockets, at a time when they need it least, National’s Environment spokesperson Scott Simpson says.

Judith Collins elected Leader of the New Zealand National Party

Judith Collins July 14, 2020 Share

Judith Collins has been elected Leader of the New Zealand National Party, the party caucus announced.

Statement from Senior Whip

Barbara Kuriger July 14, 2020 Share

The National Party caucus have agreed to meet tonight to discuss the way forward, Senior Whip Barbara Kuriger announced.

Todd Muller resigns as Leader of the Opposition

Todd Muller July 14, 2020 Share

I have taken time over the weekend to reflect on my experience over the last several weeks as Leader of the Opposition.

Businesses and landlords in legal limbo

Paul Goldsmith July 13, 2020 Share

Many businesses and commercial landlords are in a completely unacceptable legal limbo because of Coalition infighting and incompetence, National’s Finance spokesperson Paul Goldsmith says.

High Court decision a win for hunters

Jacqui Dean July 11, 2020 Share

A High Court decision has stopped this clumsy and incompetent Government from destroying a $17 million industry and hundreds of jobs, National’s Conservation spokesperson Jacqui Dean says.

Public housing figures another failure for Labour

Nicola Willis July 06, 2020 Share

The number of families who need homes continue to grow at an alarming rate as public housing figures soar from 5844 in 2017 to 17982 as at May this year, National’s Housing spokesperson Nicola Willis says.

Statement from Michael Woodhouse

Michael Woodhouse July 10, 2020 Share

Between June 21 and 25 I received four unsolicited emails from Michelle Boag containing information that, while not the same information that is the subject of the Inquiry led by Michael Heron QC, was similar insofar as it contained patient details.

Dr Jian Yang to retire from politics at 2020 election

Jian Yang July 10, 2020 Share

National List MP Dr Jian Yang has today officially announced that he will retire from politics at the 2020 election.

Todd Muller thanks retiring MP Dr Jian Yang

Todd Muller July 10, 2020 Share

National Party Leader Todd Muller has today thanked retiring MP Dr Jian Yang for his commitment to the party and to New Zealand over the past nine years.

National’s Plan to get New Zealand working

Todd Muller July 09, 2020 Share

National Party Leader Todd Muller has revealed the framework for the party’s Plan to create more jobs and a better economy. At a speech to the Christchurch Employers’ Chamber of Commerce today, Mr Muller outlined the five elements of National’s Plan.

Govt’s vision fails to address today’s issues

Todd Muller July 07, 2020 Share

The Government’s ‘Fit For a Better World’ vision for the primary sector fails to address the myriad of issues they’ve created for farmers over the past three years, Leader of the Opposition Todd Muller and National’s Agriculture spokesperson David Bennett say.

More than a third of businesses plan to lay off staff

Paul Goldsmith July 07, 2020 Share

More than a third of businesses plan to lay off staff over the next three months, National’s Finance spokesperson Paul Goldsmith said today.

Labour admits it has no plan

Todd Muller July 06, 2020 Share

National Party Leader Todd Muller says the admission by Labour Party Leader Jacinda Ardern yesterday that her Government has run the country for three years “without a playbook” comes as no surprise.

Labour promises are “just more KiwiBuild”

Todd Muller July 06, 2020 Share

National Leader Todd Muller says Labour Leader Jacinda Ardern’s promises today are “just more KiwiBuild”. “Nothing Labour promises you this election will be delivered – except more tax for you to pay.

Thousands of Kiwis need help getting back to work

Louise Upston July 06, 2020 Share

Recent Jobseeker figures illustrates the economic and job crisis New Zealand is facing and Labour has no plan on how to lower them, National’s Social Development spokesperson Louise Upston says.

This Government can’t be trusted with anything

Michael Woodhouse July 04, 2020 Share

Yet another mistake just goes to prove that this Government is not fit to manage the Covid-19 recovery, National’s Health spokesperson Michael Woodhouse says. “Reports coming in this morning of personal details being leaked which reveals the identity of New Zealand’s current active cases, is yet another serious failing from this incompetent Government.

Labour can’t and won’t deliver anything

Todd Muller July 04, 2020 Share

Jacinda Ardern’s big talk today is yet more empty promises from a clumsy and incompetent Government, National Leader Todd Muller said today. “You cannot believe anything that this Prime Minister promises will be delivered except more tax,” Mr Muller said today.

Thousands of illegal firearms still in circulation

Brett Hudson May 27, 2020 Share

Despite the Government claiming to make New Zealand safer with its firearms reforms and gun buyback, according to the Auditor-General we still don’t know how many now illegal firearms are in the country, National’s Police spokesperson Brett Hudson says.

New Zealand facing largest decline in GDP in 160 years

Paul Goldsmith May 27, 2020 Share

Estimates from the Reserve Bank today show New Zealand will this year experience the largest decline in annual GDP in at least 160 years, highlighting the seriousness of the economic crisis we are facing, National’s Finance Spokesperson Paul Goldsmith says.

National commits to extending Waikato Expressway

Todd Muller July 03, 2020 Share

National’s plan to create jobs and boost the economy will include a new four-lane expressway between Cambridge and Piarere, National Party Leader Todd Muller has announced. The new 16-kilometre, four-lane motorway will connect the Cambridge section of the Waikato Expressway to the intersection of State Highway 1 and State Highway 29.

Jobs crisis laid bare

Todd Muller July 03, 2020 Share

“The scale of our economic and jobs crisis is starting to become clear,” National Leader Todd Muller said today. "Data released this week by leading employment website, SEEK, shows jobs advertising has collapsed by nearly a half since February - standing at just 57.1 per cent of pre-COVID-19 levels over the last two weeks.

Phil Twyford big on promises but can’t deliver

Judith Collins May 27, 2020 Share

Economic Development Minister Phil Twyford has continued his streak of non-delivery with no infrastructure projects underway since calling for industry to come forward with shovel ready projects two months ago, National’s Economic Development spokesperson Judith Collins says.

More for some, less for others

Louise Upston May 27, 2020 Share

The Government’s new welfare scheme is ill targeted and provides the most support to those who need it the least, National’s Social Development spokesperson Louise Upston says.

Yet another KiwiBuild flop

Nicola Willis May 27, 2020 Share

The ongoing KiwiBuild disaster has dashed more hopes for would-be first-home buyers in Wellington, National’s Housing and Urban Development spokesperson Nicola Willis says.

Davis delivers more broken promises

Simeon Brown May 28, 2020 Share

There’s no more hiding, Corrections Minister Kelvin Davis will clearly fail to deliver on his promise to reduce the prison population according to Ministry of Justice projections released today, National’s Corrections spokesperson Simeon Brown says.

‘Zero-deaths’ seabird pledge hollow without cameras

Jacqui Dean May 28, 2020 Share

The Government’s pledge to have zero seabird deaths rings hollow when they have scrapped National’s plan to implement cameras on all commercial fishing boats, National’s Conservation spokesperson Jacqui Dean says.

National backs businesses with $10k JobStart

Todd Muller May 29, 2020 Share

National will provide a $10,000 cash payment to businesses that hire additional staff as part of our commitment to keeping New Zealanders in jobs, National Party Leader Todd Muller and Finance spokesperson Paul Goldsmith have announced.

Families, communities, small business

Todd Muller May 29, 2020 Share

It’s great to be in Auckland. I’m pleased to be giving my first formal speech as Leader of the New Zealand National Party here, and to be with my Deputy Leader Nikki Kaye for whom this city is home.

Muller wants to fast-track JobStart with Government

Todd Muller May 30, 2020 Share

Opposition Leader Todd Muller wants National’s $10,000 JobStart programme in place within weeks.

Government fails to keep breast screening promise

Michael Woodhouse May 30, 2020 Share

The Government has failed to keep the promise in its coalition agreement with NZ First to progressively increase the age for free breast screening to 74 years of age, National’s Health spokesperson Michael Woodhouse says.

90-day trials should be fully reinstated

Dan Bidois May 31, 2020 Share

The Government needs to urgently restore 90-day trial periods to encourage large businesses to take on new staff, National’s Workplace Relations and Safety spokesperson Dan Bidois says.

Is it the sentiment or the symbolism Mr Peters?

Gerry Brownlee May 31, 2020 Share

Foreign Minister Winston Peters should explain why New Zealand was absent from a joint statement by his ministerial counterparts from the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada and the United States on China’s proposal to impose strict new laws on Hong Kong, National’s Foreign Affairs spokesperson Gerry Brownlee says.

Mike Butterick National’s new candidate in Wairarapa

National Party May 31, 2020 Share

Today Mike Butterick has been selected as National’s candidate standing in Wairarapa for the 2020 General Election.

Government must explain why we’re still at Level 2

Todd Muller June 01, 2020 Share

The Government needs to explain to New Zealanders why it won’t consider a move to Alert Level 1 for another week, Leader of the Opposition Todd Muller says.

Greens climate taxes risk economic recovery

Scott Simpson June 02, 2020 Share

Changes to the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) announced today will pile extra costs and taxes onto New Zealand businesses at a time when they can least afford them, National’s Climate Change spokesperson Scott Simpson says.

Plan needed for devastated conservation sector

Jacqui Dean June 02, 2020 Share

The Government doesn’t have a coherent plan for the devastating impact Covid-19 has had on the conservation sector, National’s Conservation spokesperson Jacqui Dean says.

Marine engineering jobs at risk

Nick Smith June 02, 2020 Share

The Government’s refusal to allow entry of vessels into Nelson despite them posing no risk of introducing Covid-19 is putting millions of dollars of work and dozens of jobs at risk, MP for Nelson Nick Smith says.

Government needs to prioritise move to Level 1

Todd Muller June 02, 2020 Share

With businesses hemorrhaging money by the day, the Government should be discussing the move to Level 1 now, not in a week, Leader of the Opposition Todd Muller says.

Government deciding which industries will survive

Shane Reti June 02, 2020 Share

Today we have seen the first indication that the Government will decide which industries will survive after Covid-19 rather than creating the economic framework where all businesses have an opportunity to thrive, National’s Tertiary Education spokesperson Dr Shane Reti says.

Questions remain around Govt’s Covid-19 law

Judith Collins June 03, 2020 Share

The Government should be using this time to draft up a second Covid-19 Public Health Bill in case we are faced with a second wave of Covid-19, National’s Shadow Attorney-General Judith Collins says.

Govt needs to be upfront on border exemptions

Judith Collins June 03, 2020 Share

The Government needs to explain why special permission has been granted for the Avatar film crew to enter New Zealand but America’s Cup teams are still waiting for their visas to be approved, National’s Economic Development spokesperson Judith Collins says.

It’s time for a captain’s call on level 1

Todd Muller June 03, 2020 Share

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern needs to make a captain’s call on moving the country to level 1, Leader of the Opposition Todd Muller says.

What is Phil Twyford hiding?

Chris Bishop June 03, 2020 Share

Minister of Transport Phil Twyford needs to front up and admit that his officials recommended against the shambolic process he’s undertaken for Auckland light rail, National’s Transport spokesperson Chris Bishop says.

Where’s the proof, Kelvin?

Simeon Brown June 04, 2020 Share

Corrections Minister Kelvin Davis needs to be upfront about the reasoning behind the use of extraordinary powers given to Corrections staff under the Epidemic Preparedness Notice, National’s Corrections spokesperson Simeon Brown says.

Big on announcements, slow on delivery

Matt Doocey June 04, 2020 Share

The Government has spent less than half of the money allocated to the its flagship new frontline mental health service over the past year, National’s Mental Health spokesperson Matt Doocey says.

$100m Tourism Accelerator to support recovery

Todd Muller June 05, 2020 Share

National will launch a $100 million grant programme called Tourism Accelerator to help fund projects that will get New Zealand’s tourism sector back on its feet.

Sympathy should be with passengers

Andrew Falloon June 05, 2020 Share

In response to a deluge of complaints over Air New Zealand’s refusal to grant refunds, the Government’s sympathy should be with passengers, says National’s Associate Transport Spokesperson Andrew Falloon.

DoC leaves concessionaires in the lurch

Jacqui Dean June 06, 2020 Share

The Department of Conservation (DoC) has shown a lack of compassion towards businesses permitted to operate on conservation land, National’s Conservation spokesperson Jacqui Dean says.

Tania Tapsell National’s new candidate for East Coast

National Party June 06, 2020 Share

Tania Tapsell has today been selected as the National Party candidate for East Coast in the 2020 General Election.

Timeline for trans-Tasman bubble needed now

Todd Muller June 07, 2020 Share

The Government needs to put forward a timeline for the opening of the trans-Tasman bubble immediately to allow businesses to plan for the future, Leader of the Opposition Todd Muller says.

Where’s the projects, Phil?

Judith Collins June 08, 2020 Share

Economic Development Minister Phil Twyford has questions to answer on why no shovel ready projects are underway despite calling for ideas two months ago, National’s Economic Development spokesperson Judith Collins says.

Release the report, Minister

Michael Woodhouse June 09, 2020 Share

The Government needs to release the Health and Disability sector review which was completed months ago, National’s Health spokesperson Michael Woodhouse says.

National to scrap teacher registration fees

Nikki Kaye June 09, 2020 Share

National will scrap teacher registration fees and fund the Teaching Council directly, National’s Education spokesperson Nikki Kaye says.

It is time for a plan to get Kiwis back in jobs

Nikki Kaye June 09, 2020 Share

Deputy Leader of the Opposition Nikki Kaye says it is time for New Zealand to see the Government’s plan to save and create jobs.

Govt finances show urgent need for growth plan

Paul Goldsmith June 10, 2020 Share

Crown account figures released today show we already have a deficit of $13 billion and net debt has already increased by nearly $20 billion on pre-Covid levels, National’s Finance spokesperson Paul Goldsmith says.

Govt needs to get moving on trans-Tasman travel

Gerry Brownlee June 10, 2020 Share

As the conditions for the wage subsidy change, clearly defined criteria for the opening of the trans-Tasman/Pacific bubble needs to be published, National’s Foreign Affairs spokesperson Gerry Brownlee says.

Govt risks losing economic benefit of America’s Cup

Judith Collins June 10, 2020 Share

The Government’s lack of urgency on approving visas for the America’s Cup teams is concerning and risks losing a significant amount of economic benefit to New Zealand, National’s Economic Development spokesperson Judith Collins says.

Govt ignoring forestry industry’s concerns

Hamish Walker June 10, 2020 Share

The Government is failing to acknowledge the valid concerns raised about its rushed and unpractical forestry regulation bill, which has led to the industry sending the Prime Minister an open letter pleading for the bill to be delayed, National’s Forestry spokesperson Hamish Walker says.

Davis continues to let criminals off the hook

Simeon Brown July 02, 2020 Share

Corrections Minister Kelvin Davis continues to reduce community service sentence hours, showing he clearly doesn’t believe that offenders who do the crime, should do the time, National’s Corrections spokesperson Simeon Brown says.

Apartment reform is now a realistic opportunity

Judith Collins July 02, 2020 Share

It was great to see the Unit Titles (Strengthening Body Corporate Governance and Other Matters) Amendment Bill pulled from the member’s bill ballot today, National’s MP for Papakura Judith Collins and Auckland Central MP Nikki Kaye both say.

Repealing waka jumping law on the table

David Carter July 02, 2020 Share

The pulling of the Electoral (Integrity Repeal) Amendment Bill from the Members’ Bill ballot today gives Parliament an opportunity to get rid of NZ First’s ‘waka-jumping’ legislation, National List MP David Carter says.

Clark’s resignation was too little, too late

Todd Muller July 02, 2020 Share

Leader of the Opposition Todd Muller says David Clark’s resignation is welcome but it comes too late. “David Clark has not delivered in his role as Health Minister and there is no question he had to go."

Todd Muller announces caucus reshuffle

Todd Muller July 02, 2020 Share

Today I am confirming a minor shadow cabinet reshuffle due to the retirement of Paula Bennett. Dr Shane Reti will be ranked number 13 and will take on Associate Drug Reform.

Bill offers closure for victims of insane offenders

Louise Upston July 02, 2020 Share

The passing of my Member’s Bill’s first reading last night is a positive first step towards putting victims at the heart of our justice system, Louise Upston MP for Taupo says.

Minister won’t take guns from gangs

Brett Hudson July 02, 2020 Share

Police Minister Stuart Nash has refused to back law changes that would keep guns out of the hands of gangs in New Zealand, National’s Police spokesperson Brett Hudson says.

Second language in schools passes first reading

Nikki Kaye July 01, 2020 Share

A Member’s Bill that would give children the opportunity to learn a second language in primary and intermediate schools has passed its first reading in Parliament, Auckland Central MP and National’s Education spokesperson Nikki Kaye says.

Prime Minister and Finance Minister slippery on tax

Paul Goldsmith July 01, 2020 Share

While National has committed to no new taxes for Kiwis in our first term, both the Prime Minister and the Finance Minister are being slippery on whether Labour will increase taxes or not, National’s Finance spokesperson Paul Goldsmith says.

National to undo Government’s tertiary reforms

Nikki Kaye July 01, 2020 Share

National has vigorously opposed the Government’s Reform of Vocational Education (ROVE) and has confirmed at the Southern Institute of Technology today that it would return regional education back to the regions, undoing a significant part of the reforms, National’s Education spokesperson Nikki Kaye and Tertiary Education spokesperson Dr Shane Reti say.

Virtual APEC a lost economic opportunity

Gerry Brownlee June 30, 2020 Share

APEC moving to a virtual forum will be a significant loss to New Zealand’s economy but it is still an opportunity to focus on strengthening relationships and forging new ones, National’s Foreign Affairs spokesperson Gerry Brownlee says.

Government failing to fulfil testing responsibilities

Michael Woodhouse June 30, 2020 Share

It is unacceptable that two weeks after the Government’s bungles at the border were exposed, there are still hundreds of potential cases wandering around untested, National’s Health spokesperson Michael Woodhouse says.

Govt’s tax grab another slap in the face for motorists

Chris Bishop June 30, 2020 Share

The Government will deliver another slap in the face to motorists tomorrow when it adds another 4c per litre to the cost of fuel, National’s Transport spokesperson Chris Bishop says.

OECD says New Zealand economy hit harder than most

Paul Goldsmith June 11, 2020 Share

New figures show New Zealand is likely to experience a bigger economic shock from Covid-19 than Australia and other OECD countries despite being in a better position than most to manage the crisis, National’s Finance Spokesperson Paul Goldsmith says.

Andrew Little admits failed Pike River promise

Judith Collins June 11, 2020 Share

After years of promises and false hope, Pike River Recovery Minister Andrew Little admitted yesterday there is little chance of recovering the 29 men tragically lost, National’s Pike River Re-entry spokesperson Judith Collins says.

National urges Government to stop fuel hike

Chris Bishop June 11, 2020 Share

National is reiterating its call for the Government to defer the 4c hike in petrol excise duty and road user charges scheduled for July 1, National’s Transport Spokesperson Chris Bishop says.

Under National international students would be back

Nikki Kaye June 12, 2020 Share

A National Government would be working hard to safely return tertiary international students back to New Zealand as quickly as possible, Deputy Leader and Education spokesperson Nikki Kaye and National’s Tertiary Education spokesperson Dr Shane Reti say.

Potential labour shortage unless visa problems fixed

David Bennett June 12, 2020 Share

The Government needs to act fast or dairy farmers will be left short-staffed during the busy calving season as thousands of worker’s migrant visas are set to expire, National’s Agriculture spokesperson David Bennett says.

PM getting a leg up from the public service

Gerry Brownlee June 12, 2020 Share

National Party campaign chair Gerry Brownlee says taxpayers deserve a good answer to why the Instagram page for the Unite for Recovery website they’re paying for – and which is staffed by public servants expected to be neutral – is following just one Instagram page, the personal account of Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern.

Minister turns her back on Māori media

Jo Hayes June 12, 2020 Share

Cutting funding for Māori news services would be an insult to Māori, National’s Māori Development spokesperson Jo Hayes says.

Latest income stats shows need for JobStart

Louise Upston June 13, 2020 Share

The latest income stats released on Friday reiterates the importance of National’s JobStart scheme, National’s Social Development spokesperson Louise Upston says.

Todd Muller outlines National’s first term priorities

Todd Muller June 14, 2020 Share

Creating tens of thousands of new full-time jobs and building a better economy than before the Covid-19 crisis will be National’s top priorities in its first term, Leader of the Opposition Todd Muller told his home community of Te Puna today.

Rima Nakhle National’s candidate in Takanini

National Party June 14, 2020 Share

Today Rima Nakhle has been selected by the National Party to stand in Takanini for this year’s General Election. Takanini is a new electorate in South Auckland.

Enough of the blame game, Julie Anne

Chris Bishop June 15, 2020 Share

Comments made by Associate Transport Minister Julie Anne Genter blaming NZTA for the failure of Auckland light rail are astonishing - the Government needs to take full responsibility for this debacle, National’s Transport spokesperson Chris Bishop says.

Petition accepted on early reading instruction

Nikki Kaye June 15, 2020 Share

Today I accepted a petition from parents and children with dyslexia on early reading instruction and how we can ensure children with learning difficulties get the best support possible, National’s Education spokesperson Nikki Kaye says.

Health report overdue and unlikely to be acted on

Michael Woodhouse June 16, 2020 Share

David Clark has delayed and delayed the release of today’s Health and Disability System Review, and as a result the Government is unlikely to provide a response before the election, National’s Health spokesperson Michael Woodhouse says.

Govt’s tourism fund will help less than 1 per cent of businesses

Todd McClay June 16, 2020 Share

National’s Tourism Accelerator would provide for hundreds of potential new projects across the tourism sector to stimulate demand and support hundreds of thousands of workers, National’s Tourism spokesperson Todd McClay says.

What’s your border strategy Prime Minister?

Todd Muller June 30, 2020 Share

The Prime Minister needs to stop misrepresenting the border issue and tell New Zealanders what her strategy is to protect the economy long-term, Leader of the Opposition Todd Muller says.

Parliament playground blows budget

Nick Smith June 16, 2020 Share

Parliament’s new playground is a monument to extravagance and waste with revelations it cost $572,000 and went 43 per cent over budget, National’s State Services spokesperson Nick Smith says.

PM needs to make captain’s call on border security

Todd Muller June 17, 2020 Share

The Prime Minister needs to make a captain’s call to better secure our borders and improve quarantine management, Leader of the Opposition Todd Muller says.

Scrutiny needed over Covid spend-up ahead of election

Paul Goldsmith June 17, 2020 Share

Finance Minister Grant Robertson needs to give New Zealanders confidence that the Covid Recovery Fund isn’t just going to be used for election bribes, National’s Finance spokesperson Paul Goldsmith says.

NZ UK Free Trade Agreement must be equal to CER

Todd McClay June 17, 2020 Share

National welcomes the announcement that formal free trade negotiations will begin between the United Kingdom and New Zealand in July, National’s Trade spokesperson Todd McClay says.

Employment Minister out of touch with portfolio

Shane Reti June 17, 2020 Share

Questions in Parliament today show just how out of touch Employment Minister Willie Jackson is with his own employment programs, National’s Skills and Employment spokesperson Dr Shane Reti says.

Govt opposes sending strong message to thugs

Matt King June 18, 2020 Share

A Members’ Bill that would create a new offence to apply to people who throw ‘coward punches’ has been voted down by the Government, MP for Northland Matt King says.

Government putting pilots and passengers at risk

Hamish Walker June 18, 2020 Share

A Members’ Bill that would have strengthened the current law around laser-pointing has been voted down by the Government, putting pilots and their passengers at risk, MP for Clutha-Southland Hamish Walker says.

Shark Cage Diving Bill voted down in Parliament

Sarah Dowie June 18, 2020 Share

A Members Bill to provide best practice regulations for shark cage diving activities has been rejected by the Government, MP for Invercargill Sarah Dowie says.

GDP figures confirm worst fears

Todd Muller June 18, 2020 Share

Today’s GDP figures confirm National’s worst fears about the looming economic and jobs crisis, Opposition Leader Todd Muller said today.

Thousands of community service hours wiped

Simeon Brown June 18, 2020 Share

Corrections Minister Kelvin Davis should apologise to victims of crime after his Department chose to reduce community service sentences imposed by the Court on parolees during the Covid-19 lockdown, National’s Corrections spokesperson Simeon Brown says.

Higher taxes inevitable if Labour-Greens win

Paul Goldsmith June 28, 2020 Share

New Zealanders gained a glimpse today of what a Labour Greens government would look like, and it involves a lot more taxes, National’s Finance spokesperson, Paul Goldsmith, said today.

National would ensure testing is actually mandatory

Michael Woodhouse June 18, 2020 Share

New Zealand’s team of 5 million have done their part in combating Covid-19, but the Government is failing to do theirs, National’s Health spokesperson Michael Woodhouse says.

Why has it taken so long for any investments?

Scott Simpson June 18, 2020 Share

It has taken almost two years for the Government’s Green Investment Fund to finally announce some investment, but it has still spent millions of taxpayer dollars, National’s Environment spokesperson Scott Simpson says.

Firearms reforms won’t deliver what Govt claims

Brett Hudson June 18, 2020 Share

The Government’s firearms reforms only add more rules, regulations and costs on law-abiding firearm owners and does little to address genuine criminal activity and gangs, National’s Police spokesperson Brett Hudson says.

Calling on men to march against partner violence

Alfred Ngaro June 18, 2020 Share

We need to make a call and get New Zealand men to march against intimate partner violence, National MP Alfred Ngaro says.

It’s time for councils to put people first

Jacqui Dean June 18, 2020 Share

A member’s bill drawn from the ballot today will make it easier for people to deal with councils by reducing costs and the amount of time involved, Waitaki MP Jacqui Dean says.

National will build the Belfast to Pegasus motorway

Chris Bishop June 19, 2020 Share

The next National Government will build the Belfast to Pegasus Motorway, including the Woodend Bypass, National’s Transport spokesperson Chris Bishop and Waimakariri MP Matt Doocey have announced.

Bala Beeram National’s candidate in Kelston

National Party June 19, 2020 Share

Bala Beeram has been selected as National’s candidate in Kelston for the 2020 General Election.

Minister must do his part to rebuild our economy

Stuart Smith June 20, 2020 Share

The Immigration Minister needs to get his ministry working faster to process border exceptions for essential workers, National’s Immigration spokesperson Stuart Smith says.

$143m taxpayer dollars spent but no new cells

Simeon Brown June 20, 2020 Share

Not a single operational bed has been delivered by the Decmil modular build programme, despite the programme costing more than $143 million in taxpayer dollars, National Party Corrections spokesperson Simeon Brown says.

Government fails to fix border

Michael Woodhouse June 20, 2020 Share

The Government’s rapid reshuffling of leadership has failed to fix its shambolic management of quarantine at our border, National’s Health spokesperson Michael Woodhouse says.

National selects Māngere and Manurewa candidates

National Party June 20, 2020 Share

Today National has selected two new Auckland candidates with Agnes Loheni in Māngere and Nuwanthie Samarakone in Manurewa.

Border bungles will cost jobs

Paul Goldsmith June 21, 2020 Share

Restoring confidence in our handling of the border is a critical part of restoring our economy, National’s Finance spokesperson Paul Goldsmith says.

New Zealanders to brace for ACC levy increases

Tim Macindoe June 21, 2020 Share

At a time of unprecedented financial insecurity for New Zealand business owners and employees, the Government is preparing to add even more costs through a range of ACC levy increases, National’s ACC spokesperson Tim Macindoe says.

Managed isolation still a complete shambles

Michael Woodhouse June 21, 2020 Share

It’s not only the residents of Stamford Plaza that deserve better from the Government, the whole process is a shambles, National’s Health spokesperson Michael Woodhouse says

Rotorua deserves urgent answers around quarantine

Todd McClay June 21, 2020 Share

It’s outrageous the Government has bused newly arrived international passengers into Rotorua under the cover of darkness to quarantine them in the CBD, Rotorua MP Todd McClay says.

National supports water consent being added to Covid-19 Bill

Nikki Kaye June 22, 2020 Share

National supports the Auckland Mayor’s calls for Watercare’s Waikato River water take consent to be included in the Covid-19 Recovery Bill, Deputy Leader of the Opposition Nikki Kaye says.

Government failing to deliver road safety upgrades

Chris Bishop June 24, 2020 Share

The Government is failing to deliver on its self-declared number one priority of road safety, National’s Transport spokesperson Chris Bishop says.

Light rail’s demise highlights Government's incompetence

Chris Bishop June 24, 2020 Share

The demise of Auckland’s light rail is yet another broken promise by Labour and shows they simply can’t deliver, Leader of the Opposition Todd Muller and National’s Transport spokesperson Chris Bishop say.

Customs ill-prepared to protect our borders

Simon O'Connor June 24, 2020 Share

Customs staff at our international airport borders have received no training to prepare for the increase in Kiwis returning home. This lack of preparation just reiterates how ill-prepared this Government has been to protect our borders, National’s Customs spokesperson Simon O’Connor says.

Shambolic Coalition creating economic uncertainty

Paul Goldsmith June 24, 2020 Share

The Coalition Government’s chronic instability is creating huge uncertainty in the economy at a time when businesses need confidence to grow and create jobs, National’s Finance spokesperson Paul Goldsmith says.

Government not keeping tabs on border exemptions

Stuart Smith June 25, 2020 Share

The Government isn’t keeping track of how many foreign citizens it is letting into New Zealand under the ‘essential other worker’ border closure exemption, National’s Immigration spokesperson Stuart Smith has revealed.

IMF figures show NZ economy falling behind Australia

Paul Goldsmith June 25, 2020 Share

The latest IMF report shows New Zealand’s GDP is falling at a much faster rate than Australia’s, with the difference in growth costing the New Zealand economy $8 billion this year, National’s Finance spokesperson Paul Goldsmith says.

Clark’s humiliation of Director-General of Health

Todd Muller June 25, 2020 Share

Health Minister David Clark has finally turned up to work, and when he did, his first job was to throw his Director-General of Health under the bus, Leader of the Opposition Todd Muller says.

Government makes shambles of prisoner voting law

Nick Smith June 25, 2020 Share

Differences between coalition partners and this clumsy and incompetent Government’s use of urgency has resulted in a shambolic and unworkable prisoner voting law, National’s Electoral Law spokesperson Nick Smith says.

Government underestimating labour shortage

David Bennett June 25, 2020 Share

The Government is underestimating the size of the labour shortage rural contractors are facing as they come into their busy season, National’s Agriculture spokesperson David Bennett says.

Lack of action from Conservation Minister will cost jobs

Jacqui Dean June 25, 2020 Share

The Government is putting jobs at risk by not offering desperately-needed financial relief to businesses that operate on conservation land, National’s Conservation spokesperson Jacqui Dean says.

Farming community at the heart of National’s priorities

Todd Muller June 25, 2020 Share

New Zealand’s rural communities need a National Government to unlock their full potential and help our farmers and growers handle the heavy lifting of our economic recovery.

Now is not the time to ease back on Covid testing

Michael Woodhouse June 25, 2020 Share

Restricting Covid-19 tests at a time when New Zealand is seeing a case resurgence is the wrong way to go, National’s Health spokesperson Michael Woodhouse says

NZ Govt the biggest spender, yet still one of the worst performers

Paul Goldsmith June 26, 2020 Share

The New Zealand Government is spending more than any other country responding to Covid-19 yet will still suffer some of the worst economic impacts, National’s Finance spokesperson Paul Goldsmith says.

Todd Muller unveils National’s election hoardings

Todd Muller June 26, 2020 Share

National Party Leader Todd Muller has unveiled the first of a new series of election hoardings in Napier today.

Anne Tolley to retire from politics at 2020 election

Anne Tolley June 27, 2020 Share

East Coast MP Anne Tolley has today announced she will be retiring from Parliament at the 2020 General Election. Mrs Tolley has been the MP for East Coast since 2005 and was first elected as a National MP in 1999.

Paula Bennett to retire from politics at 2020 election

Paula Bennett June 29, 2020 Share

Today I am announcing that I will not be standing at the next election. I have had an incredible time in politics for the past 15 years and now I am looking forward to my next career.

Todd Muller thanks outgoing MP Paula Bennett

Todd Muller June 29, 2020 Share

Paula Bennett’s service to the National Party and New Zealand deserves acknowledgement and recognition, National Party Leader Todd Muller says.

Budget 2020 lacks a coherent plan

Simon Bridges May 14, 2020 Share

Today’s Budget doesn’t have the plan we need to get New Zealand working again, Opposition Leader Simon Bridges says.

National backs businesses with $10k JobStart

Todd Muller May 29, 2020 Share

National will provide a $10,000 cash payment to businesses that hire additional staff as part of our commitment to keeping New Zealanders in jobs, National Party Leader Todd Muller and Finance spokesperson Paul Goldsmith have announced.

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