Wednesday 25 January 2023

Rt Hon Chris Hipkins
Prime Minister

Kia ora Chris,

Congratulations on your appointment as the 41st Prime Minister of Aotearoa New Zealand.

The constructive and positive working relationship between the Greens and Labour has delivered meaningful change for people and our planet. But there is a long way to go.

Action for a fairer Aotearoa where everyone can afford a warm home and food on the table is needed now more than ever.

The rising cost of living is not experienced equally. Reliance on fossil fuels is also driving increases to household bills and fueling the climate crisis. 

When those at the top get richer, while tens of thousands of families struggle to make ends meet, we can see just how out of balance our society has become. 

To achieve our shared aspirations, Aotearoa needs bold solutions that work for everyone.

Increasing Working for Families and income support benefits to make sure children have the best possible start in life and are supported to grow up and thrive.

Investing to build more homes, restricting rent increases, and a Rental Warrant of Fitness so everyone has a healthy, safe, and affordable place to call home, no matter if they rent or own.

Putting people and communities first in our ongoing response to the climate emergency by supporting families to switch to low cost renewable energy; continuing with half-price public transport; investing in safe options to walk and cycle; and the creation of thousands of new jobs.  

Restoring the health of our native plants, animals, and wild places to sustain the health and wellbeing of our people and our communities, including no new mines on conservation land. 

The Green Party has always been clear that a fairer tax system would help deliver these changes, as well as support better public health and education for whānau, and pay equity for essential workers like teachers and nurses.

We look forward to meeting with you soon and discussing opportunities to work together for the remainder of this parliamentary term and beyond.

Ngā mihi,

Marama Davidson & James Shaw
Green Party Co-leaders