Luxon calls for unity and progress on Waitangi Day

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon marked Waitangi Day with a call for unity and progress, emphasising the importance of resolving remaining Treaty settlements and creating opportunities for all New Zealanders.

Writing in an op-ed in legacy media outlet NZ Herald from Ōnuku Marae near Akaroa, Luxon reflected on his personal connection to the region and the significance of the Treaty of Waitangi. He praised New Zealand’s approach to Treaty settlements, highlighting the National Party’s track record in advancing agreements that empower Māori communities economically.

“There is a reason the vast majority of Treaty settlements have been completed under National – we believe in solutions that empower Māori with the means to succeed,” Luxon said.

Addressing the Treaty Principles Bill, Luxon said proposed legislation will not become law. “It is not realistic to suggest that 185 years of debate would be settled once and for all with the stroke of a pen,” he said.

Luxon criticised co-governance of public services under the previous government, arguing that centralised bureaucracies are ineffective. Instead, he championed an approach where communities are empowered to drive their own success, with the government playing a “supportive” role.

Looking ahead to the bicentennial of the Treaty in 2040, Luxon said there was a need for economic growth and opportunities that benefit all New Zealanders. He pointed to early signs of progress under his leadership, including improvements in education, housing, and economic stability.

“We are getting kids back to school, and teaching an hour each of reading, writing and maths every day. Inflation is back under control and interest rates are falling. We have reduced the number of families living in emergency housing by more than two-thirds,” he noted.