Hipkins back to basics but light on new policy

Hipkins back to basics but light on new policy
Chris Hipkins outlined his government's priorities to parliament today. (Image: Getty)
Ian Llewellyn
Recovery from Cyclone Gabrielle and a government “getting back to basics” was the focus of prime minister Chris Hipkins' opening statement to parliament.The speech outlining the government’s priorities was light on any new announcements on where Hipkins' policy refocus is heading. Instead, it was a reiteration of current policy and recent policy changes, such as dropping the Radio New Zealand and TVNZ merger.However, one project that many pundits have been picking for the chop – Auckland light rail – would...

More Policy

First residential housing fast-track consent granted
Policy

First residential housing fast-track consent granted

The Maitahi Village project in Nelson will supply about 374 residential units.

Government announces $70m for contestable AI research funding
Policy

Government announces $70m for contestable AI research funding

The reallocated funds will go through the NZ Institute for Advanced Technology

Seeking a faster, sharper ComCom
Economy

Seeking a faster, sharper ComCom

A ‘gold standard’ approach and siloed structure slow the ComCom down.

Court funding miss ‘undermines market confidence’
Finance

Court funding miss ‘undermines market confidence’

Plenary and Infrastructure NZ wrote to ministers over PPP ‘disappointment’.

Oliver Lewis 17 Sep 2025