From voting rights to healthcare: Pacific issues take centre stage in NZ political and medical debates

The upcoming general election in New Zealand is shaping up to be a contest over who should have the right to vote, with the New Zealand First party advocating for a 'Citizens Only' policy. This proposal seeks to disenfranchise permanent residents, allowing only New Zealand citizens to cast ballots in general elections, local council elections, and referendums. Current regulations permit permanent residents to vote after residing in the country for at least one year.

This policy has ignited concerns, especially within Pacific communities, where a number of long-term residents have not yet obtained New Zealand citizenship. New Zealand First Leader Winston Peters defended the proposal, rejecting claims that it would unfairly disadvantage Pasifika communities. He argued that individuals should commit to New Zealand if they choose to live there, drawing parallels to Pacific nations like Sāmoa, Tonga, and the Cook Islands, which restrict voting to their own citizens.

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Where in the world do they allow that to happen? My point is, if you’re going to sign up to New Zealand, then sign up.

"If you're going to sign up to New Zealand, then sign up," Peters stated, emphasizing that citizenship signifies a long-term commitment to the nation. He also highlighted the prevalence of dual citizenship in Pacific countries, suggesting it would not pose a barrier for Pasifika individuals to become citizens.

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The great thing about the Pacific countries is they’re allowed to have dual citizenship. They’ll have no difficulty in doing this at all.

The electoral debate unfolds as political parties intensify their campaigns ahead of the election later this year. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has ruled out collaboration with The Opportunity Party, whose leader, Qiulae Wong, has called for greater political cooperation and an end to "tribalism." Peters, meanwhile, dismissed Wong's prospects of entering Parliament.

In parallel, issues concerning healthcare for Pacific Islanders are also gaining prominence. Indigenous health experts in the Pacific region are actively seeking the participation of Pacific Islanders in precision medicine studies. This initiative aims to improve health outcomes and address specific health challenges faced by these communities through tailored medical research.

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As somebody who comes from a people who left probably a thousand years ago before we came to New Zealand, some of us have signed up and committed to this place. If you’re coming to New Zealand, why aren’t you?