NZ Herald Powerbrokers’ Debate 2026: Most outrageous moments, clashes and political digs
New Zealand party leaders participated in a heated 'Powerbrokers' Debate' covering topics like housing, family violence, and political alliances. The event featured sharp exchanges, including a notable moment where the moderator told politicians to 'zip it'.
Why it matters
The debate provides insight into the political climate and policy priorities of New Zealand's leadership ahead of the 2026 cycle.
Party leaders clashed over some of the country’s biggest political issues during the NZ Herald’s Powerbrokers’ Debate. Photo / Dean Purcell
Winston Peters defended being smacked as a child, Qiulae Wong challenged his old-school views, David Seymour took a swipe at Marama Davidson’s grammar, and Ryan Bridge told squabbling politicians to “zip it, sweeties”.
The NZ Herald’s Powerbrokers’ Debate saw the party leaders clash over housing affordability, family violence and potential political alliances, with plenty of sharp exchanges along the way.
Here’s a look back at some of the night’s most colourful moments:
A heated squabble over housing policy prompted moderator Ryan Bridge to borrow a memorable line from former National Party deputy leader Paula Bennett.
David Seymour and Qiulae Wong were sparring over first-home buyers after the Act leader questioned whether Opportunity’s policies would make it harder for young New Zealanders to get on the property ladder.
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