NZ First candidate defends advertisement regarding HMNZS Manawanui sinking

New Zealand First candidate and former Defence Minister Ron Mark has defended a campaign advertisement that links the sinking of the HMNZS Manawanui to 'woke' policies of diversity, equity, and inclusiveness (DEI).

The advertisement suggests that DEI initiatives have gone too far, citing the loss of the $100 million vessel off the coast of Samoa in 2024 as evidence. Mark stated that the party's focus is on meritocracy rather than diversity metrics, arguing for a restoration of the 'warrior ethos' within the military.

Responding to criticisms that the ad targets women, Mark denied that his comments were an attack on female service members. He noted that NZ First's defence policy includes clauses protecting female-specific roles when they are operationally advantageous. He emphasized that he has served alongside outstanding female officers and that the party's stance is about ensuring personnel advancement is based on skill and capability.