Speaking on Politics Friday with chrislynchmedia.com, Minister for the South Island James Meager and Wigram MP Megan Woods shared their views on issues ranging from Te Pāti Māori justice spokesperson Takuta Ferris’ controversial comments, to the growing use of police helicopters, and the collapse of Smith City.
Ferris had written online: “This blows my mind, Indians, Asians, Black and Pākehā campaigning to take a Māori seat from Māori.”
Woods said Labour had been clear in calling this out. “Willie Jackson has led the charge in saying these comments are wrong. We’re proud that our campaign has support from members of all backgrounds. Our job as politicians is to bring people together, not divide them.”
Meager described the remarks as damaging. “They reflect badly on Te Pāti Māori. If it was me who had said them, I think we’d be talking about my resignation. New Zealanders deserve better.”
The conversation turned to policing, with both guests asked about the increasing use of commercial helicopters to track stolen cars in Christchurch.
Meager said helicopters were effective but should not replace community policing. “We need more sworn officers on the ground while making sure resources like helicopters are used carefully, and in consultation with the community.”
Woods said the practicality of charging parents for helicopter deployments would be difficult. “It might just become another unpaid fine. What concerns me more is the reduction in community policing, because local constables know their neighbourhoods and make a real difference.”
On Smith City entering voluntary administration, Meager said it reflected the pressures many businesses were under. “It’s tough out there when inflation has been high, but hopefully Smith City can trade through. It has a long history in Canterbury.”
Woods said her thoughts were with affected staff. “It’s a very worrying time for people in retail. The bigger issue is people aren’t spending because they’re worried about job security. We’ve seen a doubling of businesses going into receivership since 2021.”
The pair also responded to the latest Roy Morgan poll showing Labour, the Greens and Te Pāti Māori edging ahead of the governing bloc.
Woods said it showed New Zealanders felt worse off. “People’s lives are getting harder. They want a government that focuses on their homes, jobs and health.”
Meager said “What matters now is delivering for New Zealanders, and businesses on the ground are investing because they believe in what we’re doing.”
