Coalition Agreement NZ First: What You Need to Know

The 2017 New Zealand general election saw the rise of the populist New Zealand First party, which ended up holding the balance of power between the incumbent National Party and the Labour Party. After weeks of negotiations, a coalition agreement was reached, with Jacinda Ardern of Labour becoming the prime minister and Winston Peters of NZ First becoming the deputy prime minister and minister of foreign affairs.

But what is in the coalition agreement, and what does it mean for New Zealand? Here are some key points:

1. Immigration: One of NZ First`s main campaigning points was reducing immigration to New Zealand. The coalition agreement reflects this, with a commitment to reduce net migration by 20,000 to 30,000 per year. However, the agreement also acknowledges the need for skilled migrants and international students, so the reduction will focus on low-skilled and family-sponsored migrants.

2. Regional development: NZ First campaigned for investment in regional New Zealand, and the coalition agreement includes a $1 billion per year Regional Development Fund. This fund will be used for projects such as infrastructure, tourism, and job creation. Additionally, there will be a new ministry for regional economic development.

3. Defence and foreign affairs: Winston Peters, as minister of foreign affairs, will have a significant role in shaping New Zealand`s foreign policy. The coalition agreement commits to increasing defence spending, though the exact amount is yet to be determined. There will also be a review of New Zealand`s foreign policy, with a focus on the Pacific region.

4. Housing: The coalition agreement includes a plan to build 100,000 affordable homes over the next decade, with half of them in Auckland. There will also be a crackdown on foreign speculators buying New Zealand property.

5. Environment: The agreement commits to planting 100 million trees per year, increasing the use of electric vehicles, and establishing a Climate Commission to advise on climate change policy.

These are just some of the highlights of the coalition agreement between Labour and NZ First. Of course, as with any political agreement, there will be compromises and challenges along the way. However, the agreement signals a significant shift in New Zealand politics, with a focus on regional development and a reduction in immigration. It remains to be seen how successful the government will be in implementing these policies, but the coalition agreement provides a roadmap for the next three years.