Shane Jones Backs Controversial NZ First Candidate Amid Oil and Gas Exploration Ban Apology

New Zealand First deputy leader Shane Jones has defended his party's candidate selection for the New Plymouth electorate, despite controversy surrounding Murray Chong.

Chong, a councillor who has served 13 years on the district council and was one of three rotating deputy mayors, made headlines last year after being kicked out of the chamber for describing the council's procurement policy as 'racist' due to its goal of improving partnerships with iwi, hapū, and Māori businesses.

Jones said Chong is a 'long-term supporter' of New Zealand First and that his opinions are 'valuable' to the party. He acknowledged Chong's controversies, including abstaining from the council vote on retaining its Māori ward due to 'safety concerns', but downplayed their significance.

Jones also apologised for New Zealand First's role in the oil and gas exploration ban, which he said had 'destroyed' the Taranaki economy. He expressed support for the 're-emergence of indigenous gas' and advocated for cutting 'red and green tape' to facilitate legitimate projects.

Jones also touched on immigration settings, suggesting a focus on migrants New Zealand needs rather than those that need New Zealand. He labelled the India Free Trade deal as the 'Indian free travel deal', but steered clear of controversy over the failed bid to mine vanadium on the seabed off the South Taranaki coast.