NZ First wants Parliament to be more accountable by using binding public votes (referenda) instead of MPs deciding on their own for major issues. They want to reduce the rules and costs that central government puts on local councils, and they want to keep public assets in New Zealand hands. They also want to repeal a law that created Māori wards in local elections.
“Parliament must be a responsive and accountable institution that works for communities. New Zealand First believes that the best approach to ensure this, is smaller and more effective government, coupled with direct democracy through referendum.”
“Where practical timelines permit, remove the use of personal votes by Members of Parliament on all conscience issues and replace them with citizens binding referenda”
“Review the legislative and cost burden that central government has placed on local government to first lessen, and second, share the impact upon ratepayers”
Summarised neutrally from NZ First’s own official policy (as at 2026-08-23) and checked by an editor. Nothing is paraphrased without the source linked. Read the original ↗ Arapono is non-partisan. Compare all parties on Democracy & Government →
NZ First would change electoral law so that only New Zealand citizens can vote. Permanent residents can currently vote after two years, and holders of certain visas with no expiry date after one. The party would keep permanent residence as the right to live, work, study and build a life here, while reserving the vote for those who have taken citizenship.
Which party holds a published position on which topic.
Swipe across to see all 11 topics — the party column stays put.
| Party | Economy | Housing | Health | Education | Climate | Environment | Crime & Justice | Treaty & Māori Affairs | Immigration | Foreign Policy | Democracy & Government |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| National |
| ∅ |
| Labour | ∅ | ∅ | ∅ | ∅ | ∅ | ∅ |
| Green |
| ACT |
| NZ First |
| Te Pāti Māori |
| TOP |
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| NZ Loyal | ∅ | ||||||||||
| Te Tai Tokerau | ∅ | ||||||||||