ACT and NZ First pitch tighter immigration controls, others warn against anti-immigration policies
New Zealand political parties are debating immigration policy, with ACT and NZ First advocating for tighter restrictions while other parties warn against populist rhetoric. The discussion highlights tensions between managing skilled labor shortages and addressing concerns over immigration levels.
Why it matters
Immigration policy remains a central point of contention in New Zealand politics, balancing economic needs with social and political pressures.
With ACT and New Zealand First pitching tighter controls on immigration, National, Labour and the Greens are warning against populist anti-immigration policies.
Party leaders and spokespeople were giving speeches at the annual Immigration Conference in Auckland on Friday.
New Zealand First's Winston Peters launched more than a dozen proposals - almost all of which would curb or restrict migration.
Labour's Phil Twyford also came prepared , proposing a mix of policies including a citizenship pathway for children born to undocumented parents, a longer permanent residency process, and a review of the financial criteria for parent visas.
However, he spent much of his speech decrying a "dumpster fire" of right-wing populists demonising migrants and refugees.
National's Erica Stanford, who is the current minister, said she did not support ACT's proposal to abolish permanent resident visas .
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