Summarised by Centrist
New Zealand First leader Winston Peters’ recent comments on immigration, expressing concern over cultural integration and social cohesion amid rising migrant numbers, warn that some newcomers do not embrace New Zealand’s values.
This is a stance he says reflects public unease seen in other countries.
His remarks drew sharp rebuke from Labour and the Greens, who labelled them “divisive rhetoric” and “cynical politicking.”
The Greens’ Ricardo Menéndez March argued Peters’ focus on blaming migrants distracts from pressing domestic issues like homelessness and pay equity, while Labour’s Phil Twyford emphasised the vital economic and social contributions of migrants to New Zealand.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon stated that the government’s approach to immigration is part of a broader economic agenda, stressing the need for aligned infrastructure and job pathways. He noted efforts to accelerate residency for workers filling skill shortages through the Green List (a list of highly skilled roles that are in demand and for which there is a shortage in the country).
Peters reiterated New Zealand First’s longstanding principle that the country must prioritise training and employing local workers rather than relying solely on immigration. He pointed to the necessity of adequate infrastructure to support growing migrant communities.
New Zealand’s net migration gain slowed to 15,000 in the year to May 2025, with arrivals down from recent peaks but still above historic averages.
“People are concerned about where their countries are going, and New Zealanders are no different,” Peters said, adding that New Zealanders have “seen the international circumstances of careless immigration policies.”
