Luxon defends extra overseas plane after criticising Hipkins
New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon is defending the use of a second Defence Force plane for his trip to the Pacific Islands Forum. Luxon previously criticized his predecessor for similar actions, leading to accusations of hypocrisy from political opponents.
Why it matters
The incident highlights the tension between political campaign promises regarding fiscal responsibility and the practical realities of governing and logistics.
The Prime Minister is defending the deployment of a second Defence Force plane for his Pacific Islands Forum mission, having previously criticised the use of a back-up plane when in opposition. Christopher Luxon is in Palau for the annual Pacific Islands leaders meeting. Both of the RNZAF Boeing 757s have been deployed on the mission, with one staying in Cairns as a back-up. Luxon said it was a Defence Force decision to take two planes, with 88 people from New Zealand heading to the Pacific Islands Forum. "We've taken 14 delegations up here, we've got a lot of people to take home on Sunday as well, and we're taking some home when I go out on Friday as well."
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