Key Takeaways:
- National Party leader Christopher Luxon delivered his state of the nation address in Auckland, acknowledging a tough time for Kiwi households and businesses but insisting the country is turning a corner.
- The party is focusing on the South Island, particularly Christchurch, where they face criticism for neglecting the region and several key electorates are up for grabs.
- A potential u-turn on a policy to intensify housing in Auckland is expected, which could reduce the load on the city’s wealthier central suburbs and increase housing on the city’s perimeter.
- Luxon has hinted at a reshuffle early this year, with retirements from his caucus expected to be announced shortly.
- The National Party is looking to regain momentum after a tough start to the year, with several key issues and electorates to focus on.
Introduction to the State of the Nation Address
Luxon began his own political year on Monday, making his state of the nation address in Auckland. In his speech, he acknowledged that it had been a “tough time for Kiwi households and businesses over the last five years”, but insisted that the country was turning a corner. This message was likely an attempt to turn the page on the recessionary economy that marked the first two years of his Government and look towards a more positive future. By acknowledging the challenges faced by Kiwis, Luxon is hoping to show that he is in touch with the concerns of the public and is committed to making a change.
Focus on the South Island
National has returned to Christchurch for the second time this Parliament, a move that is seen as an attempt to address criticism that the party has neglected the South Island. The party has faced criticism that its spending decisions and Cabinet make-up have neglected the region, and Luxon has responded by creating a new South Island portfolio and giving it to Rangitata MP James Meager. This move is likely an attempt to show that the party is committed to representing the interests of the South Island and is willing to take concrete steps to address the concerns of the region. With several key electorates in Christchurch up for grabs, including the narrow-margin Banks Peninsula electorate and the potentially flippable Wigram seat, the party will be looking to make a strong impression in the region.
The Auckland Housing Plan
The National caucus is also eagerly awaiting the Government’s announcement of a tipped u-turn on a policy that would have intensified housing in Auckland. The plan, which would have allowed the construction of up to two million new dwellings in Auckland, sparked a mini-rebellion within the coalition and within National’s caucus, with MPs concerned that it would see large apartment buildings in areas without infrastructure and overshadowing people’s one or two storey homes. The plan is seen as a successor to moves under the Labour Government to densify Auckland in an attempt to improve housing affordability, and Housing Minister Chris Bishop has been a champion of the plan. However, with the crash in Auckland house prices weighing on the Government’s popularity, Luxon has hinted that changes to the plan may be necessary, saying that “it’s clear there’s a lot of feedback that’s been received, and that change will be needed, and we’re open to that”.
Potential Reshuffle
Luxon has also teased a reshuffle early this year, noting to Hosking that there are likely to be retirements from his caucus announced shortly. A reshuffle is not expected at the retreat, but it is likely that Luxon will use the opportunity to make some changes to his team and refresh the party’s lineup. With several key issues and electorates to focus on, Luxon will be looking to make the most of the opportunity to regroup and refocus his party. The potential retirements and reshuffle will be closely watched, as they could have a significant impact on the party’s chances in the upcoming elections.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Luxon’s state of the nation address marked an important moment in the political year, as the National Party looks to turn the corner on a tough start and regain momentum. With a focus on the South Island, particularly Christchurch, and a potential u-turn on the Auckland housing plan, the party is looking to address key issues and make a strong impression on the public. The potential reshuffle and retirements will also be closely watched, as they could have a significant impact on the party’s chances in the upcoming elections. As the year ahead is likely to be filled with challenges and opportunities, Luxon and the National Party will need to be strategic and effective in their approach if they are to achieve their goals.
