Election 2026: Winston Peters to unveil new NZ First policy at campaign launch to conclude convention

New Zealand First leader Winston Peters is set to unveil new policy as he launches his party's campaign for the upcoming election. The campaign launch will take place in Auckland and serves as the concluding event of the party's annual convention.

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What I see with New Zealand First is that they’re the only party who are espousing the pathway to prosperity.

The event, scheduled at the Due Drop Events Centre in Manukau, will feature speeches from several party figures, including two new candidates: former All Blacks captain Taine Randell and former National MP Michael Laws. Delegates have already heard from Randell, who shared his experiences in professional rugby and the oil market, advocating for "oil independence" and addressing competition in key sectors like supermarkets, energy, and banking.

Randell expressed his belief that New Zealand First offers the "pathway to prosperity," emphasizing that such outcomes require deliberate effort and trade-offs. Despite admitting to public speaking nerves, his address was well-received by the audience.

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Prosperity does not just happen. Prosperity requires trade-offs.

Michael Laws, a former National MP and strategist for NZ First in the 1996 election, also addressed the convention. He drew comparisons to contemporary broadcaster Paul Henry and shared a personal anecdote about playing rugby, which led into his political commentary. Laws highlighted NZ First's historical success in growing its vote share while in coalition with larger parties, citing the 2023 election result and a recent poll showing increased support. He stressed the party's focus on core issues and its commitment to reforming the country for ordinary New Zealanders.

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NZ First was the only party in MMP history to grow its share of the vote whilst in partnership with a larger party.