New Zealand First leader Winston Peters says he cannot understand why his latest comments on Māori not being indigenous are being contested. Leaders of the National, Labour and ACT parties have all criticised Peters' speech. Peters referred to two prominent Māori leaders, the late Sir Peter Buck and the late Sir Apirana Ngata, both of whom shared his beliefs, he said. Peters has avoided saying whether he would support a Labour or National government outside of a coalition. However, late last month, Labour leader Chris Hipkins called NZ First a "force for instability and chaos", ruling out any formal working arrangement post-election.

Source: Stuff September 12, 2023 02:04 UTC