As Europe eyes up New Zealand with serious investment potential — in clean energy, infrastructure and more — we keep tripping over our own shoelaces. Why? Because our political system encourages each new government to undo the last one’s work out of spite or ego. This isn’t just inefficient; it’s reckless.

The cost isn’t just in dollars. It’s in trust, in reputation, and in the slow erosion of our collective future.

Te Pāti Māori, once the living symbol of kaupapa Māori politics and tino rangatiratanga, now faces accusations of centralisation and disconnection from its grassroots. With Toitū Te Tiriti severing ties, the party must choose between humility and pride, accountability and control. This moment matters not just for Māori but for the future of democracy in Aotearoa.

Carl Bates, National’s Whanganui MP, is under inquiry for failing to declare around 25 properties. In Political Showcase Aotearoa, we ask: is this an oversight or simply proof that New Zealand’s politics and economy are glued to property speculation?