It is difficult to imagine a National-led government pursuing some of these reforms on its own. The presence of both ACT and NZ First in the coalition has undoubtedly strengthened the government’s resolve on issues involving democratic accountability, local government reform and the broader debate around Treaty-related governance arrangements.
Whether one agrees or disagrees with the reforms themselves, they reflect concerns that have been building among a significant section of the electorate for many years. The message from those voters is simple: decisions affecting New Zealanders should be made by people whom New Zealanders can elect, question and ultimately remove from office.
We should not be governed by those holding a first-class ticket on the tribalist gravy train.
