New Zealand First

New Zealand First is a political party in New Zealand, founded and led by longtime politician Winston Peters. It is characterized by its populist, national conservative, and economic nationalist stances, often positioning itself as a champion of ordinary New Zealanders and senior citizens. The party has played a pivotal role as a coalition and confidence and supply partner in several governments under both National and Labour leadership, making it a recurring kingmaker in New Zealand politics.

History

The party was established in July 1993 by Winston Peters, following his departure from the National Party. It achieved immediate success in the 1996 election, winning 17 seats and entering a coalition government with the National Party, with Peters serving as Deputy Prime Minister and Treasurer. This coalition collapsed in 1998, leading to a period in opposition. After a term outside Parliament following the 2008 election, the party returned in 2011 and later formed a confidence and supply agreement with the National Party after the 2017 election. In a surprise move, it instead entered a coalition government with the Labour Party led by Jacinda Ardern, with Peters as Deputy Prime Minister again. Following a term out of Parliament after the 2020 election, it returned at the 2023 election and entered a coalition government with the National Party and ACT New Zealand.

Ideology and policies

The party's platform blends national conservatism with populist rhetoric, emphasizing national sovereignty and economic nationalism. Core policies have historically included reducing immigration, opposing the sale of strategic assets to foreign owners, and advocating for stronger Treaty of Waitangi settlements. It strongly supports pensioner benefits and law and order initiatives. The party is also known for its skepticism of foreign entanglements and has at times expressed opposition to certain free trade agreements. Its stance on Māori issues is often distinctive, combining advocacy for Treaty of Waitangi claims with opposition to what it frames as separatism.

Electoral performance

The party's electoral fortunes have fluctuated significantly, often tied to the personal appeal of Winston Peters. Its high point was the 1996 election under the MMP system, where it won 13.4% of the party vote and 17 seats. It has frequently hovered near the 5% electoral threshold required for list seats in Parliament, and has also won electorate seats, notably Tauranga and Northland. The party failed to enter Parliament after the 2008 and 2020 elections but returned in 2011, 2017, and 2023, demonstrating a persistent resilience in the New Zealand political spectrum.

Leadership and structure

Winston Peters has been the party's leader since its inception and is its defining figure. Other notable figures have included Ron Mark, who served as Minister of Defence and Veterans Affairs, and Tracey Martin, who served as Minister for Children. The party's structure is centralized, with Peters maintaining firm control over strategy and policy direction. Its membership base is traditionally strong among senior citizens and in provincial regions such as Northland. The party president is Julian Paul.

Controversies and criticism

The party and Winston Peters have been involved in numerous controversies. These include the 2008 donations scandal which led to a Serious Fraud Office investigation and court cases, though Peters was ultimately cleared of wrongdoing. Its frequent role as kingmaker has led to criticism from both the National and Labour parties, who accuse it of political opportunism. Policy positions, particularly on immigration and Māori issues, have often drawn accusations of dog-whistle politics and xenophobia from opponents and commentators. The party's reliance on Winston Peters has also prompted ongoing debate about its long-term viability beyond his leadership.

Category:Political parties in New Zealand Category:1993 establishments in New Zealand