From NZ Herald · · 3m
Election 2026 Powerbrokers Debate: NZ First, Greens, National and Opportunity
NZ First, Greens, National and Opportunity leaders debate coalition strategies ahead of 2026 election.
In brief
NZ First, Greens, National and Opportunity leaders debate coalition strategies ahead of 2026 election. Te Pāti Māori withdraws from debate after gang pad visit controversy, while Green Party co-leaders face questions on engagement with Mongrel Mob. Originally reported by NZ Herald.
Powerbrokers Debate
The New Zealand Herald hosts its Powerbrokers’ debate examining issues, policies and potential coalition bedfellows for the 2026 election.
Te Pāti Māori Withdraws
Te Pāti Māori co-leaders cannot attend tonight’s debate due to significant whānau and prior electorate commitments.
Mongrel Mob Visit
Te Pāti Māori MP Oriini Kaipara met with Mongrel Mob members at a gang pad in Auckland, vowing to restore 'mana' to gang members.
National's Response
National’s justice spokesman Paul Goldsmith called the footage 'outrageous' and stated National focuses on restoring mana to victims, not gangs.
Labour's Stance
Labour leader Chris Hipkins ruled out Te Pāti Māori and Green Party from major ministerial roles if Labour forms a government.
Green Party's Position
Green Party co-leader Marama Davidson called her engagement with marginalised communities 'unapologetic' despite past meetings with Mongrel Mob.
Act's Concern
Act deputy leader Nicole McKee cited the New Zealand Crime and Victims Survey showing 33% of Māori adults experienced at least one criminal offence in 2025.
Green Party's Past Engagement
Green Party co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick refused to comment on whether she would advise MP Lyndon against meeting with Mongrel Mob members.
Labour's Policy
Labour leader Chris Hipkins stated his party would not support any rights for gangs or changes to the ban on gang patches.
Te Pāti Māori Statement
Te Pāti Māori spokesperson said they remain focused on their people, kaupapa and strategy to change government directly to whānau and communities.
Mongrel Mob Footage
Te Pāti Māori MP Oriini Kaipara told Mongrel Mob members they are tangata whenua, descendants of Toi, Kupe and Tupaia.
Mongrel Mob Context
The Mongrel Mob is a gang that has been linked to criminal activity in Auckland, including violence and drug trafficking.
Worm Feature
Online readers can rank each leader’s performance in real-time using the return of the 'worm' feature on the Herald’s live blog.
Missed Debate
The previous leaders debate between Christopher Luxon and Chris Hipkins is available for those who missed it.
Coalition Strategy
Polling shows National and Labour need coalition partners to govern in the 2026 election.
Election Outcome
The debate aims to determine which parties will hold the balance of power and shape New Zealand’s next government.
The short version
Te Pāti Māori withdraws from debate after gang pad visit controversy, while Green Party co-leaders face questions on engagement with Mongrel Mob.
