Election 2026: Chris Hipkins on slowing council reforms and boosting migrant worker protections
Labour leader Chris Hipkins has pledged to slow down local government reforms and increase protections for migrant workers if elected in 2026. He criticized the current government's approach to council restructuring, arguing that it lacks sufficient community consultation.
Why it matters
Proposed changes to local government structures significantly impact regional governance and community representation in New Zealand.
Labour leader Chris Hipkins (left) and Tauranga Mayor Mahé Drysdale at this year's AIMS Games. Photo / Kaitlyn Morrell
Labour leader Chris Hipkins says a Labour Government would “slow” local government reforms and strengthen protections for migrant workers in Bay of Plenty.
Hipkins has argued some communities are feeling “alienated” by decisions driven by the current Government, particularly around proposed council changes.
Speaking to the Bay of Plenty Times on Friday, he said Labour would not “force” local government reforms through in a hurry without adequate consultation.
He also hit back at New Zealand First minister Shane Jones’ recent criticism of the Bay of Plenty kiwifruit industry.
The Government’s local government reforms aim to reduce the number of councils nationwide by replacing the regional and district council model with larger unitary authorities.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in