The Opportunity Party has proposed establishing a Future Generations Commissioner to advocate for the interests of future New Zealanders. The role, if created, would be independent and appointed for a five-year term, tasked with ensuring long-term thinking in government decisions. Opportunity leader Qiulae Wong emphasized the need for this role to address short-term political thinking, particularly in areas like energy and infrastructure. The Commissioner would assess the long-term impacts of major policies and investments, including the cost of inaction.
Wong cited Wales' Well-being of Future Generations Act as a model, noting how it successfully prevented environmentally harmful projects. She estimated the annual cost of such a Commissioner at around $5 million, a fraction of the billions spent on fluctuating infrastructure and policy changes. Nate Wilbourne from the Wellbeing Economy Alliance Aotearoa supported the idea, highlighting its potential to address climate change and infrastructure planning.
Meanwhile, the National Party outlined its 100-day plan if elected, detailing 26 actions. Key proposals include KiwiSaver changes, a trade mission to India, and a return to budget surplus. The plan also aims to extend paid parental leave, cap council rates, and boost funding for cancer medicines. National leader Christopher Luxon described the plan as a continuation of their progress.
Other parties also made announcements over the long weekend. ACT Party campaigned on the North Shore, while New Zealand First proposed abolishing the Emissions Trading Scheme tax on fuel, claiming it would reduce prices by 12 to 14 cents per litre.