Greens want to lead Govt, Hipkins not interested in 'arguing' with them

Published in Politics and Government on Sunday, August 10th 2025 at 10:49 GMT by The New Zealand Herald
^{🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source}

The Green Party is holding its annual meeting in Wellington.

Greens Eye Leading Role in Next Government, But Labour's Hipkins Brushes Off the Challenge

In a bold declaration that underscores shifting dynamics within New Zealand's left-leaning political landscape, the Green Party has signaled its ambition to take the helm of the next government. Co-leaders Chlöe Swarbrick and Marama Davidson have publicly expressed their party's readiness to lead, positioning the Greens not just as a coalition partner but as a potential prime ministerial force. This comes amid ongoing discussions about the future of progressive politics in New Zealand, particularly as the country grapples with economic pressures, climate change, and social inequality—issues that the Greens have long championed.

The announcement was made during a recent party event, where Swarbrick emphasized the Greens' growing influence and policy depth. "We've got the vision, the team, and the track record to lead this country forward," Swarbrick stated, highlighting the party's consistent advocacy for environmental protection, wealth redistribution, and social justice reforms. She pointed to the Greens' role in the previous Labour-led government, where they held ministerial positions outside of Cabinet and pushed through initiatives like the Zero Carbon Act and increased funding for public transport. Davidson echoed these sentiments, stressing that the Greens represent a "new generation" of leadership that prioritizes people and the planet over traditional power structures. "It's time for the Greens to step up and show what real progressive governance looks like," she said.

This push for leadership marks a significant evolution for the Greens, who have historically operated as a support party in New Zealand's Mixed Member Proportional (MMP) electoral system. Since their formation in 1990, the Greens have participated in governments but never held the prime ministership. Their highest vote share came in 2011 at around 11%, and recent polls suggest they could secure between 8-10% in the upcoming election, potentially making them kingmakers in a tight race. Analysts note that this ambition could appeal to younger voters disillusioned with the major parties, Labour and National, and seeking more radical action on issues like housing affordability and climate resilience.

However, the Greens' aspirations have met with a cool reception from Labour Party leader and current Prime Minister Chris Hipkins. In a pointed response, Hipkins dismissed the notion of engaging in a debate over leadership roles, stating that he is "not interested in arguing with them." Speaking to reporters, Hipkins reiterated Labour's focus on its own campaign and governance priorities. "We're here to win the election and deliver for New Zealanders— that's our job," he said. Hipkins' comments reflect a strategic choice to avoid internal squabbles on the left, especially as Labour faces challenges in maintaining its polling lead against the center-right National Party led by Christopher Luxon.

Hipkins' reluctance to engage could stem from the delicate balance of coalition politics in New Zealand. Under MMP, no single party has won a outright majority since 1996, making alliances essential. Labour and the Greens have a history of cooperation, most notably in the 2017-2023 governments under Jacinda Ardern, where the Greens provided confidence and supply support. However, tensions have occasionally surfaced, such as over policy differences on agriculture emissions and wealth taxes. Hipkins, who took over as Labour leader in January 2023 following Ardern's resignation, has been steering the party toward a more centrist, pragmatic approach to appeal to a broader electorate. This includes emphasizing economic recovery post-COVID, cost-of-living relief, and infrastructure investment, areas where Labour aims to differentiate itself without alienating potential partners.

Political commentators have weighed in on the exchange, viewing it as a sign of confidence from the Greens but also a potential risk. Victoria University political scientist Dr. Lara Greaves suggested that the Greens' bold stance could energize their base but might complicate post-election negotiations if it alienates Labour. "In MMP, it's all about leverage," Greaves noted. "The Greens are signaling they're not content with scraps—they want a seat at the head of the table." Conversely, some see Hipkins' dismissal as a savvy move to project unity and strength, avoiding distractions that could benefit the opposition.

The National Party, meanwhile, has seized on the left's internal dynamics as an opportunity to criticize. Leader Christopher Luxon accused the potential Labour-Greens alliance of being "out of touch" with everyday Kiwis, pointing to what he calls extreme policies like the Greens' proposed wealth tax on assets over $2 million. "This just shows the chaos on the left— they're already fighting over who gets to lead a government that would hike taxes and stifle growth," Luxon said in a statement. National's own platform focuses on tax cuts, law and order, and reducing government spending, positioning them as a stable alternative.

Broader context reveals why the Greens might feel emboldened now. New Zealand faces pressing challenges, including rising inflation, a housing crisis, and the urgent need for climate adaptation following events like Cyclone Gabrielle in 2023. The Greens have been vocal critics of what they see as insufficient action from both major parties, advocating for measures like a capital gains tax, free dental care, and a rapid transition to renewable energy. Their membership has grown, particularly among urban and younger demographics, and they've successfully integrated diverse voices, including strong Māori representation through Davidson.

Hipkins, for his part, has been navigating a tricky political terrain. Labour's popularity surged during the early COVID response but has waned amid economic headwinds. Recent polls show Labour and National neck-and-neck, with the Greens and Te Pāti Māori potentially holding the balance of power. Hipkins' strategy appears to be one of consolidation—focusing on achievable wins like workforce training and healthcare improvements—while keeping coalition options open without committing to specifics.

As the election approaches, this exchange highlights the evolving nature of New Zealand politics. The Greens' push for leadership challenges the status quo, forcing parties to reconsider traditional hierarchies. Whether this leads to a more collaborative left bloc or deepened divisions remains to be seen. For now, Hipkins' refusal to argue suggests Labour is betting on its own merits, while the Greens are determined to prove they can not only support but steer the ship of state. This development could reshape voter perceptions and coalition talks, underscoring that in MMP, ambition and alliances are as crucial as policy platforms. (Word count: 928)

Read the Full The New Zealand Herald Article at:
[ https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/politics/greens-want-to-lead-government-chris-hipkins-not-interested-in-arguing-with-them/2IJ6HKQIVNFYNHUXDF46V6O4EE/ ]

N※N

Greens want to lead Govt, Hipkins not interested in 'arguing' with them

Greens Eye Leading Role in Next Government, But Labour's Hipkins Brushes Off the Challenge