Luxon rejects criticism on party's paid parental leave record
New Zealand National Party leader Christopher Luxon is defending his party's record on paid parental leave after facing criticism from the Labour Party. Luxon emphasized his focus on future policy rather than past legislative decisions.
Why it matters
The debate underscores the political maneuvering surrounding family support policies ahead of potential elections.
<p>National leader Christopher Luxon has pushed back on criticism over his party's record on paid parental leave, saying he's focused on the future.</p> <p><b>By Russell Palmer of </b><a href="https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/politics/805513/christopher-luxon-rejects-criticism-on-party-s-paid-parental-leave-record" target="_blank"><b>RNZ</b></a></p> <p>National on Sunday <a href="https://www.1news.co.nz/2026/07/26/national-pledges-to-extend-parental-leave-to-30-weeks-if-re-elected/" target="_blank">announced extending paid parental leave</a> to 30 weeks, and allowing parents to take their leave at the same time.</p> <p>Speaking to Morning Report on Monday, Luxon said National had strong values of supporting families.</p> <p>"There's just no better way to 'build the future' than building stronger families, and supporting future mums and dads in the work that they do ... is just so important ...
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