Jo Moir
Wellington, July 18, 2020
New Zealand First is holding its 27th convention in Auckland today (July 18) and tomorrow July 19), with its Leader focused on the need for economic responsibility in a post-Covid world.
Winston Peters will deliver his address tomorrow afternoon.
After spending the last two weeks recovering from an unexpected surgery, Mr Peters is combining the Party’s postponed campaign launch with the Convention.
The launch was due to be held in Whangarei last Sunday (July 12, 2020).
The Convention started with training for new candidates, followed by a session where policy proposals will be discussed and voted on, ranging from greater cost benefit analysis of government spending, to health system upgrades, and help for people to buy their first farm.
The campaign bus used during the 2017 election period was also due to make its return this weekend, but bad weather north of Auckland has prevented it making the journey south.
Need for common sense
Mr Peters told RNZ that he was feeling fit and well following his surgery and he was looking forward to “showtime.” According to him, New Zealand needs a “serious dose of common sense.’
It is a popular catchphrase with his members that he has been rolling out for the last 26 years.
He will also set out to clarify the real cost of a few big projects.
“There are some things that Aucklanders need to know, like what is the actual cost of light rail?’’
The provinces have also been a focus for New Zealand First and he said it was “amazing’’ that National and Labour had only just discovered the regions exist since Covid-19 struck.
Guest Speaker Steve Saunders
The Guest Speaker at this year’s Convention is Tauranga’s Steve Saunders.
Saunders is the founder and Board Chair of RoboticsPlus and Plus Group.
He has 28 years experience in the New Zealand horticulture industry, specialising in global pollen production, and robotics development.
Mr Peters said that he will be addressing the Convention about what success looks like.
Jo Moir is Political Reporter at Radio New Zealand. The above Report and Picture have been published under a Special Arrangement with www.rnz.co.nz
