Chris Hipkins’ ban on working with Winston Peters and NZ First post-election may produce some public bravado in the Labour Party rank and file, yet the absolute tone of that proclamation could be sending shivers of fear up the spines of some Labour candidates who actually want to be part of the next government, either with or without Peters.
Two areas where I believe middle-NZ will be doubtful of any government which does not contain a strong influence from NZ First are health and housing.
If steps taken by government in trying to restore and improve our health and hospital systems do not bear fruit in the near future, there will likely be an environment of public protest that could never be controlled by simply not recognising the protesters.
Failure to tightly regulate overseas interests buying up our farms and dwellings will further damage the desperate plight of Kiwis.
Peters attended the mandates protest and talked to protesters. He has unequivocally said “no” to the selling of NZ farms and urban properties to overseas buyers.
