Hipkins Criticizes Peters for Racism During Heated Parliament Debate

During a tense session in the New Zealand Parliament on October 25, 2023, Labour leader Chris Hipkins accused NZ First leader Winston Peters of “pure racism.” The confrontation arose after Peters targeted Green MP Teanau Tuiono, questioning his right to speak based on his Rarotongan heritage. This incident has sparked a broader discussion on racism and the treatment of migrants in New Zealand.

Parliamentary Dispute Highlights Racial Tensions

The disagreement unfolded during Parliament’s Question Time when Tuiono referred to New Zealand as “Aotearoa” while discussing climate aid in the Pacific. Peters interrupted, questioning why a representative from Rarotonga was addressing the House. Speaker Gerry Brownlee intervened, stating he did not hear Peters’ comments but would review the transcription later.

After Peters completed his inquiry, which criticized Tuiono’s right to represent his views, Brownlee expressed his disapproval of such personal attacks in Parliament. He remarked that such questions were “not acceptable at all,” urging that they should not be repeated.

In response, Hipkins passionately condemned Peters’ remarks, stating, “For a member of the House to stand up and question whether someone is entitled to ask a question because of their country of origin is pure racism.” He criticized the National ministers for remaining silent in the face of racial attacks directed at various communities, including those of Asian and Pasifika descent, calling their inaction “totally unacceptable.”

Political Reactions and Broader Implications

Hipkins emphasized the government’s responsibility to challenge racism, particularly in the lead-up to the upcoming election. He urged National ministers to actively combat prejudiced views within their ranks, expressing concern that their silence allowed discriminatory rhetoric to flourish.

Outside of Parliament, Tuiono described Peters’ actions as a distraction from real issues affecting New Zealanders, likening him to former U.S. President Donald Trump in his tactics. His Green colleague, Ricardo Menéndez March, noted that Prime Minister Christopher Luxon failed to provide leadership against Peters’ anti-migrant sentiments, which he described as “scapegoating.”

In contrast, Act leader David Seymour distanced himself from Peters’ comments but suggested that overreacting might further fuel the controversy. He stated, “If we all get ourselves in a lather, giving them the attention that they want, then that’s just as bad.”

Peters, for his part, dismissed Hipkins’ criticisms as “utter nonsense” and reiterated his belief that a foreigner should not dictate changes to New Zealand’s name. He insisted that he was reflecting the views of many New Zealanders who feel similarly.

The incident has underscored the challenges facing New Zealand’s political landscape, particularly regarding issues of race and immigration. As the country approaches a critical election period, the responses from leaders like Hipkins, Peters, and Luxon will likely shape public discourse on these sensitive topics.

The ongoing debate highlights the need for a more inclusive political dialogue, emphasizing the contributions of all communities to New Zealand’s diverse society.