Winston Peters advocates full‑employment monetary target and citizen‑only voting reform ahead of NZ election

New Zealand First leader Winston Peters called for the Reserve Bank of New Zealand to restore a full‑employment objective alongside its 2% inflation target, calling the removal of the employment goal a “dead rat” that must be swallowed. He argued that successful economies achieve massive full employment and suggested the issue would be raised in future coalition talks.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Finance Minister Nicola Willis rejected the proposal, stressing the need to keep inflation within the 1‑3% band. Current inflation is 4.1% and unemployment stands at 5.3%.

Ahead of the 2026 general election, Peters unveiled NZ First’s policy platform, which includes limiting voting rights to New Zealand citizens, tighter immigration controls, greater regional investment and continued support for Resources Minister Shane Jones. He also announced a new slate of candidates from business, agriculture and local government backgrounds.