Key Takeaways:
- Prime Minister Christopher Luxon declined to appear on Q+A in 2025, despite repeated assurances that he would participate in a broad-ranging interview.
- Luxon is not the only politician to refuse an interview on Q+A, as foreign minister Winston Peters and social development minister Louise Upston also declined.
- Q+A is the last mainstream broadcast TV news show that offers lengthy and in-depth interviews with politicians and public figures, allowing viewers to gain a deeper understanding of the government’s actions.
- Luxon instead participated in various public events, including the opening of Ikea in Auckland, a Christmas gift exchange with Mike Hosking, and the symbolic turning of sod for a new medical school at Waikato University.
- The prime minister’s refusal to appear on Q+A has raised questions about his commitment to transparency and accountability.
Introduction to the Controversy
The final episode of Q+A for 2025 ended on a sour note, with presenter Jack Tame addressing the nation to announce that Prime Minister Christopher Luxon would not be appearing on the show. Despite repeated assurances that Luxon would participate in a broad-ranging interview, his team ultimately declined the invitation. This move has sparked controversy, with many questioning the prime minister’s commitment to transparency and accountability. As Tame explained, Q+A plays a vital democratic function in interviewing and challenging politicians, and Luxon’s refusal to participate has raised concerns about his willingness to engage with the public.
The Prime Minister’s Busy Schedule
Luxon’s decision to decline the Q+A invitation has been met with criticism, particularly given his busy schedule of public appearances. The prime minister has been spotted at various events, including the opening of Ikea in Auckland, where he helped cut the ribbon and fielded questions from journalists. He also participated in a Christmas gift exchange with broadcaster Mike Hosking, where he presented him with a set of wine glasses from Ikea. Additionally, Luxon attended the symbolic turning of sod for a new medical school at Waikato University, where he joined other dignitaries in digging a ceremonial hole. These appearances have led many to wonder why Luxon could not find the time to appear on Q+A.
The Importance of Q+A
Q+A is the last mainstream broadcast TV news show that offers lengthy and in-depth interviews with politicians and public figures. The show provides a unique platform for viewers to gain a deeper understanding of the government’s actions and how these decisions affect their lives. By declining to appear on Q+A, Luxon has missed an opportunity to engage with the public and provide insight into his policies and decisions. As Tame noted, the show’s format allows for a more sustained and in-depth examination of issues, which is essential for a functioning democracy.
Luxon’s Public Appearances
Despite his refusal to appear on Q+A, Luxon has been active in the public sphere, attending various events and engaging with the media. He has been spotted at the Howick Christmas parade, where he waved enthusiastically to the Grinch and Mrs. Claus. He has also shared his Spotify Wrapped results, revealing that his top song of 2025 was "Nine Ball" by Zach Bryan. These appearances have led some to question whether Luxon is more interested in photo opportunities than in engaging with the public in a meaningful way.
Conclusion and Implications
The controversy surrounding Luxon’s refusal to appear on Q+A has raised important questions about the role of the media in holding politicians accountable. As the last mainstream broadcast TV news show that offers in-depth interviews, Q+A plays a vital function in ensuring that politicians are transparent and accountable to the public. Luxon’s decision to decline the invitation has sparked concerns about his commitment to these values, and has led many to wonder what he may be trying to hide. As the country looks to 2026, it remains to be seen whether Luxon will reconsider his stance and engage with the public through Q+. One thing is certain, however: the public deserves better than a prime minister who is more interested in photo opportunities than in engaging with the media and the public in a meaningful way.
