Left bloc leads poll; health reforms stall & more
New Zealand's political landscape is shifting as a new poll shows a potential change in government leadership, while workplace safety reforms face a stalemate in Parliament. Meanwhile, residents in the Waitaki district face a significant rates increase, and schools are calling for more support for struggling students.
A coalition of Labour, the Greens, and Te Pāti Māori could form a government if an election were held today, according to the latest 1News Verian poll. While Labour’s individual support dropped five points to 32%, the combined "left bloc" has gained enough ground to potentially overtake the current governing parties. This shift suggests a tightening race for power despite the drop in support for the main opposition party.
Workplace safety rules may remain unchanged for now as NZ First leader Winston Peters has threatened to block the government's proposed reforms. Peters stated he will not support the new health and safety legislation without significant changes, creating a potential deadlock for the coalition government's plans to overhaul the system.
Waitaki property owners will see their rates increase by 17% after the district council finalized its budget this week. The council trimmed the increase from a previously higher proposal following public pressure. Mayor Gary Kircher criticized a "toxic online environment" that he says has made it difficult for elected members to do their jobs during the budgeting process.
Vulnerable students may see better support if calls for a funding boost to "alternative education" are met, as schools warn that many teens are currently leaving these programs without any qualifications. Additionally, the Chief Commissioner of the Human Rights Commission, Dr. Stephen Rainbow, is under investigation following concerns raised about his conduct.
For more on these stories, including a trial update on the Gulf Harbour body discovery and why a Christchurch high school has closed for two days, visit the app's News section.