NZ Election 2026: What are political parties promising Pacific families?
Not sure who to vote for this November? Palota is a new online tool that breaks down what New Zealand’s major political parties are promising and what their policies could mean for Pasifika.
With seven parties compared across issues like cost of living, healthcare, housing, jobs and education, it’s a useful starting point for voters wanting to make an informed decision.
Of 243 promises reviewed, just nine explicitly mention Pasifika. Here are some of the key policies that could affect Pacific families.
Cost of living
Labour is proposing a $20 weekly cap on public transport fares, while the Greens want the first $10,000 earned to be tax-free. Te Pāti Māori is proposing a tax-free threshold of $30,000, alongside a kai credit for eligible people earning under $60,000.
NZ First is also proposing changes to grocery and electricity markets to increase competition.
Healthcare and family support
Labour wants to remove the $5 prescription charge and provide up to three free GP visits a year, alongside free referred maternity scans.
The Greens are proposing expanded free healthcare and mental health services, as well as extending paid parental leave to 15 months.
Other parties have policies covering medicine funding, cervical screening and support for new parents.
Jobs, wages and welfare
Labour is proposing a $4-an-hour pay rise for care and support workers, while the Greens have pledged to address pay equity and improve support for people receiving benefits.
Palota also flags policies from National and ACT that could affect beneficiaries, including tighter eligibility rules and changes to employment protections.
Housing and opportunities for children
Labour is promising at least 6,000 additional social housing places. The Greens want to expand school lunches and improve access to affordable early childhood education.
National is proposing to double Trades Academy places by 2030, while other policies across the parties could affect access to education and support services.
Palota also considers how likely each policy is to happen, including the impact of coalition negotiations. Its assessments reflect the creator’s own judgement, rather than an official endorsement of any party.
Want to see how the parties compare? Head to palota.nz to explore the full policy breakdown and find out what each party’s promises could mean for Pasifika.
New Zealand’s general election is on 7 November 2026. Visit vote.nz to check your enrolment and voting information.