From NZ Herald · · 2m
Chris Hipkins plays policy quiz in Palmy
Labour leader Chris Hipkins answers crowd's policy questions in Palmerston North.
In brief
Labour leader Chris Hipkins answers crowd's policy questions in Palmerston North. Labour leader Chris Hipkins answers crowd's policy questions in Palmerston North. Originally reported by NZ Herald.
Labour leader Chris Hipkins
Labour leader Chris Hipkins went through Palmerston North's Plaza shopping mall while out campaigning.
Policy quiz in Palmy
With two weeks until advance voting begins, Hipkins was quizzed by a near 300-person crowd eager to understand Labour’s position on an array of topics.
Cost of living policies
Hipkins announced new cost-of-living policies including affordable school uniforms and reduced costs in public transport, supermarkets, air travel and vehicle repairs.
Crowd engagement
Ashley, holding his 8-month-old daughter after McDonald’s, noted rising homelessness as a tough time for families.
Student loan write-off
One university student praised Labour’s proposed 10% write-off of student loan debt for those staying in New Zealand for three years after study.
Retiree concerns
A retiree expressed concern about Labour’s capital gains tax but appeared reassured it would only apply to gains after implementation.
Security and crowd
Hipkins’ team, including security normally for the Prime Minister, avoided a tense encounter with a Black Power-affiliated man.
Local candidates
Local candidates Te Pūoho Katene and Karl Severinsen handled most of the legwork with promises of photos with potential future Prime Minister.
Hipkins’ confidence
Hipkins was so engaged he introduced himself to a young couple he’d met 20 minutes earlier, with the woman calling after him, 'Good luck'.
Hipkins’ observation
Hipkins observed to candidate Tangi Utikere, 'Very positive in Palmy', noting Utikere’s long history of holding the electorate for half a century.
Massey University
Hipkins arrived at Massey University’s campus where the fire alarm sounded and everyone needed to evacuate.
Student union discussion
Hipkins discussed Labour’s jobs guarantee for nurses with Massey’s lecturers and Tertiary Education Union representatives.
Rainbow community
Hipkins responded genuinely about the need for leadership amid 'ugly and inexcusable attacks' on the rainbow community.
David Seymour question
A student asked, 'Is David Seymour an arrogant prick?' a callback to Jacinda Ardern’s muttered dig at the Act leader.
Hipkins’ response
Hipkins said he wasn’t allowed to say that, particularly not when there’s a microphone pointing at him.
Public meeting
Hipkins held a public meeting at All Saints’ Community Hall where nearly 300 people attended.
The takeaway
Labour leader Chris Hipkins answers crowd's policy questions in Palmerston North.
