THE National-Act-NZ First coalition government’s 100-day plan and subsequent actions reveal a concerning shift away from principles of equity, Māori self-determination, and social justice, writes Ivor Jones, The Māori Green Lantern

THIS critique will focus on several key areas of concern that highlight the regressive nature of their policies and the potential harm they pose to our communities.

Dismantling of Māori-focused institutions

The disestablishment of Te Aka Whai Ora, the Māori Health Authority, is a significant step backward in addressing long-standing health inequities faced by Māori. Health Minister Dr Shane Reti’s claim that this move “heralds the start of a new vision for Māori health” is deeply problematic.

The Māori Health Authority was specifically created to address systemic inequalities in healthcare delivery. Its removal, coupled with the vague promise of “local solutions", fails to acknowledge the complex, nationwide issues that require co ordinated efforts and dedicated resources.

The Government’s approach appears to prioritise a one-size-fits-all model over targeted, culturally responsive healthcare.

This shift away from specialised Māori health services contradicts evidence-based practices and risks exacerbating existing health disparities.

The disestablishment act is not just a policy change; it is an assault on Māori tino rangatiratanga and a breach of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

Centralisation vs local control paradox

There’s a glaring contradiction in the Government’s approach to local governance.

While they claim to support “local circumstances require local solutions", their actions in areas like water management tell a different story.

The repeal of the Three Waters legislation, ostensibly to “restore council ownership and control,” actually removes a framework designed to address critical infrastructure issues and ensure consistent water quality across the country.

This move may lead to a fragmented approach to water management, potentially leaving smaller or less-resourced communities behind.

It also raises concerns about the long-term sustainability and equity of water services across New Zealand. The previous government’s reforms aimed to create a more resilient and equitable water infrastructure system, and dismantling these efforts is a step backward.

Education reforms and cultural responsiveness

The coalition’s focus on “academic achievement” in education, while seemingly positive, raises red flags when viewed through a social justice lens.

There’s a risk that this approach may neglect culturally responsive pedagogies and holistic learning models that have been shown to benefit Māori and Pacific students.

The reintroduction of partnership schools, as proposed by Act, is particularly concerning given the potential for these schools to exacerbate educational inequalities and undermine the public education system.

Education Minister Erica Stanford’s priorities, such as the requirement to teach one hour a day of reading, writing, and maths, may seem beneficial on the surface, but fail to address the broader needs of diverse student populations.

The emphasis on standardised testing and rigid curricula can marginalise students who thrive in more flexible and culturally inclusive learning environments.

Law and order approach

The emphasis on “tackling gangs and youth crime” through increased policing and stricter laws is a simplistic approach to complex social issues. This punitive stance fails to address the root causes of crime and social disengagement, such as poverty, lack of opportunities, and systemic discrimination.

There’s a significant risk that these policies will disproportionately affect Māori and Pacific communities, further entrenching cycles of disadvantage and over-representation in the justice system.

Democratic process and Treaty obligations

The use of urgency to push through significant legislative changes, particularly those affecting Māori rights and representation, is deeply troubling.

This approach undermines democratic processes and sidelines Māori voices in decision-making that directly affects them.

It also raises serious questions about the Government’s commitment to honouring Te Tiriti o Waitangi obligations.

Economic policies and social equity

While the coalition promises tax relief and economic reforms, there’s a concerning lack of focus on addressing income inequality and ensuring equitable economic growth.

The decision to scrap the foreign buyer tax, for instance, may have implications for housing affordability, an issue that disproportionately affects lower-income and marginalised communities.

The National-Act-NZ First coalition’s policies and actions in their first 100 days signal a worrying trend towards dismantling structures designed to address historical inequities.

Their approach appears to prioritise a narrow definition of economic growth and centralised control over social equity and cultural rights.

As advocates for social justice, it is crucial to challenge these regressive policies, demand genuine consultation with Māori leaders and communities, and push for evidence-based approaches that address systemic inequalities.

The Government’s actions risk exacerbating existing disparities and further marginalising already vulnerable communities.

It is imperative that we remain vigilant, vocal, and united in opposing these harmful changes and continue to fight for a more just and equitable Aotearoa for all.