Sixth Labour Government of New Zealand#Transport and infrastructure

{{main|2017 New Zealand general election}}

The general election on 23 September 2017 saw the New Zealand First party hold the balance of power between National and the centre-left bloc of Labour and the Green Party. Following several weeks of negotiations with both National and Labour, New Zealand First announced on 19 October 2017 it would form a minority coalition government with Labour. Confidence-and-supply support from the Greens, negotiated separately with Labour, enables the Government to have a majority in the House of Representatives. During the coalition-forming negotiations, Labour agreed to drop its proposed water tax on farmers as part of its agreement with New Zealand First.{{cite news|title=Labour's proposed water tax on farmers to be scrapped|url=http://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/news/article.cfm?c_id=3&objectid=11935003|access-date=4 November 2017|work=The New Zealand Herald|date=20 October 2017|archive-date=4 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171104000341/http://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/news/article.cfm?c_id=3&objectid=11935003|url-status=live}} In return, NZ First agreed to drop their demand for referendums on overturning New Zealand's anti-smacking ban and abolishing the Māori electorates.{{cite news|last1=Cheng|first1=Derek|title=Anti-smacking referendum dropped during coalition negotiations|url=http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11938679|access-date=1 November 2017|work=The New Zealand Herald|date=30 October 2017|archive-date=2 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171102094346/http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11938679|url-status=live}}{{cite news|last1=Guy|first1=Alice|title=Local kaumatua not surprised Maori seats will be retained|url=http://www.nzherald.co.nz/rotorua-daily-post/news/news/article.cfm?c_id=1503437&objectid=11935171|access-date=4 November 2017|work=The New Zealand Herald|date=21 October 2017|archive-date=3 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171103132112/http://www.nzherald.co.nz/rotorua-daily-post/news/news/article.cfm?c_id=1503437&objectid=11935171|url-status=live}} The Greens consented to a confidence and supply agreement with Labour and New Zealand First in return for several concessions, including: a referendum on legalising cannabis, treating alcohol and drugs as a health issue, net zero emissions by 2050 and requiring a climate impact assessment analysis for all legislation{{cite news|last1=Collins|first1=Benedict|title=Cannabis referendum part of Greens' deal|url=http://www.radionz.co.nz/news/political/342008/cannabis-referendum-part-of-greens-deal|access-date=7 November 2017|publisher=Radio New Zealand |date=20 October 2017|archive-date=7 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171107112959/http://www.radionz.co.nz/news/political/342008/cannabis-referendum-part-of-greens-deal|url-status=live}}

{{Main|First term of the Sixth Labour Government of New Zealand}}

File:New-govt-2017.jpg

The Government made several policy announcements in late 2017. In terms of domestic policies, the Government reaffirmed its commitment to re-entering Pike River Mine by March 2019, scrapped National Standards in schools, released a mini-budget funded by cancelling National's tax cuts and created a Tax Working Group to reform New Zealand's taxation system and alleviate the country's housing crisis.{{cite news|last1=Walters|first1=Laura|title=Pike River mine recovery should be completed by March, 2019 - PM|url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/99037871/risk-could-scupper-reentering-pike-river-mine|access-date=8 March 2018|agency=Stuff|date=20 November 2017|archive-date=8 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180308110412/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/99037871/risk-could-scupper-reentering-pike-river-mine|url-status=live}}{{cite news|last1=Moir|first1=Jo|title=National Standards have officially ended in primary schools across the country|url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/education/99774465/National-Standards-have-officially-ended-in-primary-schools-across-the-country|access-date=8 March 2018|agency=Stuff|date=12 December 2017|archive-date=8 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180308110422/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/education/99774465/National-Standards-have-officially-ended-in-primary-schools-across-the-country|url-status=live}}{{cite news |last1=Dann |first1=Corin |title=Labour delivers on election promises in mini-budget and keeps books in the black, although there is limited wriggle room |url=https://www.1news.co.nz/2017/12/14/labour-delivers-on-election-promises-in-mini-budget-and-keeps-books-in-the-black-although-there-is-limited-wriggle-room/ |access-date=27 May 2024 |work=1News |date=14 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240527110656/https://www.1news.co.nz/2017/12/14/labour-delivers-on-election-promises-in-mini-budget-and-keeps-books-in-the-black-although-there-is-limited-wriggle-room/|archive-date=27 May 2024|url-status=live}}{{cite news|title=Tax Working Group members announced|url=http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PA1712/S00236/tax-working-group-members-announced.htm|access-date=22 December 2017|agency=Scoop|publisher=New Zealand Government|date=20 December 2017|archive-date=22 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171222044800/http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PA1712/S00236/tax-working-group-members-announced.htm|url-status=live}} In terms of foreign policies, the Government continued New Zealand's participation in the Trans-Pacific Partnership negotiations, opposed US President Donald Trump's move to recognise Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and reiterated New Zealand's support for the Two State Solution.{{cite news|last1=Sweeney|first1=Karen|title=TPP trade deal: Labour may 'agree to disagree' with partners|url=http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11943675|access-date=8 March 2018|work=The New Zealand Herald|date=14 November 2017|archive-date=8 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180308103802/http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11943675|url-status=live}}{{cite news|title=NZ votes against US over declaring Jerusalem as capital of Israel|url=http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11964452|access-date=8 March 2018|work=The New Zealand Herald|date=22 December 2018|archive-date=8 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180308103443/http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11964452|url-status=live}} In November 2017, Prime Minister Ardern offered to resettle 150 of the asylum seekers from the former Manus Regional Processing Centre in New Zealand, but was rebuffed by Australia's Turnbull Government.{{cite news|title=PM Malcolm Turnbull rejects NZ offer to resettle Manus refugees despite 'humanitarian crisis'|url=http://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/breakfast/pm-malcolm-turnbull-rejects-nz-offer-to-resettle-manus-refugees/9121424|access-date=8 March 2018|publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation|date=6 November 2018|archive-date=5 April 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230405012703/https://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/breakfast/pm-malcolm-turnbull-rejects-nz-offer-to-resettle-manus-refugees/9121424|url-status=live}}

On 19 January 2018, Ardern revealed that she was expecting her first child in June, and that Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters would serve as Acting Prime Minister while she took maternity leave for a period of six weeks.{{cite news|title=NZ Prime Minister Jacinda announces she's pregnant|url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/100713394/prime-minister-jacinda-ardern-announces-shes-pregnant|access-date=8 March 2018|agency=Stuff|date=19 January 2018|archive-date=8 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180308110421/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/100713394/prime-minister-jacinda-ardern-announces-shes-pregnant|url-status=live}} In June 2018, she temporarily relinquished her duties to Winston Peters, following the birth of her child, for a period of six weeks. Peters became Acting Prime Minister on 20 June 2018, when Ardern went into labour. Her six-week maternity leave concluded on 2 August 2018.{{cite news |last1=Cooke |first1=Henry |title=Jacinda Ardern is still prime minister, but Winston Peters is chairing Cabinet. Here's why |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/104814475/jacinda-ardern-is-still-prime-minister-but-winston-peters-is-chairing-cabinet-heres-why |access-date=21 June 2018 |work=Stuff |date=18 June 2018 |language=en |archive-date=21 June 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180621015801/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/104814475/jacinda-ardern-is-still-prime-minister-but-winston-peters-is-chairing-cabinet-heres-why |url-status=live }}

On the domestic front, the Labour-led coalition government implemented several policies and new laws. In terms of education, the Government introduced legislation to stop the creation of new charter schools while allowing allowing the 11 existing schools to transition to "special character" schools.{{cite news|last1=Trevett|first1=Claire|title=PM says compromise will help charter schools to convert rather than close|url=http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11992994|access-date=8 March 2018|work=The New Zealand Herald|date=12 February 2018|archive-date=7 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180307171905/http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11992994|url-status=live}}{{cite news |last1=Bracewell-Worrall |first1=Anna |title=All NZ charter schools now approved to become state integrated |url=https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2018/09/all-nz-charter-schools-now-approved-to-become-state-integrated.html |access-date=20 March 2019 |publisher=Newshub |date=17 September 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181207143557/https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2018/09/all-nz-charter-schools-now-approved-to-become-state-integrated.html |archive-date=7 December 2018}} The Government also launched several transportation, homelessness, family relief, emergency response and health plans and programmes with the aim of improving infrastructure, services, and social and health outcomes.{{cite news|last1=Trevett|first1=Claire|title=Jacinda Ardern sets out Government's transport plan, including nationwide fuel tax|url=http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12025268|access-date=4 April 2018|work=The New Zealand Herald|date=3 April 2018|archive-date=3 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180403175831/http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12025268|url-status=live}}{{cite news|title=Labour-led Govt to invest $100m into tackling homelessness in Budget|url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12044775|access-date=5 May 2018|work=The New Zealand Herald|date=4 May 2018|archive-date=5 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180505055207/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12044775|url-status=live}}{{cite news |last1=Dreaver |first1=Charlie |title=Govt's families package takes effect: 'Step in the right direction' |url=https://www.radionz.co.nz/news/political/360801/govt-s-families-package-takes-effect-step-in-the-right-direction |access-date=3 July 2018 |publisher=Radio New Zealand |date=1 July 2018 |archive-date=3 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180703053531/http://www.radionz.co.nz/news/political/360801/govt-s-families-package-takes-effect-step-in-the-right-direction |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last1=Long |first1=Jessica |title=Civil Defence Minister Kris Faafoi announces $5.2 million for rapid response teams for disasters |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/106685957/civil-defence-minister-kris-faafoi-announces-52-million-for-rapid-response-teams-for-disasters |access-date=30 August 2018 |publisher=Stuff |date=30 August 2018 |archive-date=30 August 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180830025606/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/106685957/civil-defence-minister-kris-faafoi-announces-52-million-for-rapid-response-teams-for-disasters |url-status=live }}

{{cite news |last1=Paranihi |first1=Regan |title=Govt to slash GP fees |url=https://www.maoritelevision.com/news/politics/govt-slash-gp-fees |access-date=24 January 2019 |publisher=Māori Television |date=30 November 2018 |archive-date=24 January 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190124105027/https://www.maoritelevision.com/news/politics/govt-slash-gp-fees |url-status=live }} On 17 May, Finance Minister Grant Robertson released the 2018 New Zealand budget, allocating NZ$2.8 billion in operational funding and NZ$3.8 billion in capital funding.{{cite news |title=Budget 2018's greatest hits: Everything you need to know |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12053495 |access-date=4 June 2019 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=17 May 2018 |archive-date=30 May 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190530030041/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12053495 |url-status=live }} In October 2018, the Government formally established a new government department called the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development to manage housing and urban development issues.{{cite news |last1=Walls |first1=Jason |title=Twyford today launched the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, but what is it? |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12135053 |access-date=1 February 2019 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=1 October 2018 |archive-date=31 January 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190131164336/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12135053 |url-status=live }}

The Government also passed legislation banning future oil and gas exploration, banning most non-residents from buying New Zealand homes and allowing terminally ill patients to use marijuana for palliative care.{{cite news|title=Oil, gas exploration move a 'kick in the guts' for Taranaki - mayor|url=https://www.radionz.co.nz/news/national/354816/oil-gas-exploration-move-a-kick-in-the-guts-for-taranaki-mayor|access-date=11 April 2018|publisher=Radio New Zealand|date=11 April 2018|archive-date=12 November 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191112092840/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/354816/oil-gas-exploration-move-a-kick-in-the-guts-for-taranaki-mayor|url-status=live}}{{cite news |last1=Long |first1=Jessica |title=Labour's bill to curb foreigners buying New Zealand homes becomes law |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/property/106297829/labours-bill-to-curb-foreigners-buying-new-zealand-houses-becomes-law |access-date=16 August 2018 |publisher=Stuff |date=15 August 2018 |archive-date=16 August 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180816021206/https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/property/106297829/labours-bill-to-curb-foreigners-buying-new-zealand-houses-becomes-law |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last1=Roy |first1=Eleanor Ainge |title=New Zealand passes laws to make medical marijuana widely available |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2018/dec/11/new-zealand-passes-laws-to-make-medical-marijuana-widely-available |access-date=28 December 2018 |work=The Guardian |date=11 December 2018 |archive-date=13 January 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190113005629/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2018/dec/11/new-zealand-passes-laws-to-make-medical-marijuana-widely-available |url-status=live }} In June 2018, the Government abandoned efforts to repeal the Sentencing and Parole Reform Act 2010 (the so-called three-strikes law) due to opposition from NZ First.{{cite news |title=NZ First forces Labour to ditch three strikes law repeal |url=http://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/politics/nz-first-not-supporting-three-strikes-law-changes-yet/ |access-date=22 June 2018 |publisher=Newstalk ZB |date=11 June 2018 |archive-date=22 June 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180622083901/http://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/politics/nz-first-not-supporting-three-strikes-law-changes-yet/ |url-status=live }} In December 2018, the Government announced that it would be holding a binding referendum on legalising the personal use of cannabis during the 2020 general election.{{cite news |title=Binding referendum on legalising cannabis for personal use to be held at 2020 election |url=https://www.radionz.co.nz/news/political/378523/binding-referendum-on-legalising-cannabis-for-personal-use-to-be-held-at-2020-election |access-date=28 December 2018 |publisher=Radio New Zealand |date=18 December 2018 |archive-date=18 December 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181218054901/https://www.radionz.co.nz/news/political/378523/binding-referendum-on-legalising-cannabis-for-personal-use-to-be-held-at-2020-election |url-status=live }}

On the foreign policy front, Ardern stated that New Zealand would be seeking to shift away from a 'donor, recipient relationship' with Pacific Islands nations in favour of forming bilateral partnerships in March 2018.{{cite news|title=Jacinda Ardern desires shift away from 'donor, recipient relationship' with Pacific nations|url=https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/jacinda-ardern-desires-shift-away-donor-recipient-relationship-pacific-nations|access-date=8 March 2018|publisher=1News|date=6 March 2018|archive-date=8 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180308165217/https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/jacinda-ardern-desires-shift-away-donor-recipient-relationship-pacific-nations|url-status=live}} The Government also ratified the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (an amended version of the TPP) in March 2018 and endorsed the UN's Global Compact for Migration in December 2018.{{cite news|title=NZ to sign CPTPP today|url=http://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2018/03/nz-to-sign-cptpp-today-in-chile.html|access-date=8 March 2018|publisher=Newshub|date=8 March 2018|archive-date=7 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180307211806/http://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2018/03/nz-to-sign-cptpp-today-in-chile.html|url-status=dead}}{{cite news |last1=Cheng |first1=Derek |title=NZ to vote in favour of UN Migration Compact |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12179506 |access-date=7 January 2019 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=19 December 2018 |archive-date=7 January 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190107181050/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12179506 |url-status=live }} In April 2018, Attorney General David Parker announced a government inquiry into allegations that the New Zealand Special Air Service had committed war crimes against Afghan civilians during Operation Burnham while stationed in Afghanistan.{{cite web |last1=Parker |first1=David |title=Approval for Inquiry into Operation Burnham |url=http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PA1804/S00124/approval-for-inquiry-into-operation-burnham.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180819045607/http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PA1804/S00124/approval-for-inquiry-into-operation-burnham.htm |archive-date=19 August 2018 |access-date=11 April 2018 |website=Scoop |publisher=New Zealand Government}}

Following the Christchurch mosque shootings on 15 March 2019, Ardern announced that the Government would be reforming New Zealand's gun laws.{{cite news |last1=Hemi |first1=Tema |title=PM Jacinda Ardern announces reforms on NZ gun laws |url=https://www.maoritelevision.com/news/regional/pm-jacinda-ardern-announces-reforms-on-nz-gun-laws |access-date=20 March 2019 |publisher=Māori Television |date=18 March 2019 |archive-date=21 March 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190321013539/https://www.maoritelevision.com/news/regional/pm-jacinda-ardern-announces-reforms-on-nz-gun-laws |url-status=dead }} On 10 April, the Government passed legislation banning semi-automatic firearms, magazines, and parts.{{cite news |title=Firearms Amendment Bill passes final reading in Parliament |url=https://www.radionz.co.nz/news/national/386778/firearms-amendment-bill-passes-final-reading-in-parliament |access-date=10 April 2019 |publisher=Radio New Zealand |date=10 April 2019 |archive-date=10 April 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190410104001/https://www.radionz.co.nz/news/national/386778/firearms-amendment-bill-passes-final-reading-in-parliament |url-status=live }} In addition, the government announced an amnesty and buy-back scheme for prohibited firearms and components.{{cite web |last1=Roberston |first1=Grant |last2=Nash |first2=Stuart |title=Firearms buy-back scheme strikes fair balance |url=https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/firearms-buy-back-scheme-strikes-fair-balance |newspaper=The Beehive |publisher=New Zealand Government |access-date=8 July 2019 |date=20 June 2019 |archive-date=8 July 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190708231652/https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/firearms-buy-back-scheme-strikes-fair-balance |url-status=live }} Ardern also proposed legislation creating a national firearms register, tighter firearms restrictions and a ban on overseas visitors buying firearms in New Zealand.{{cite news |last1=Manch |first1=Thomas |title=Firearms register among second raft of gun law reforms announced by PM |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/christchurch-shooting/114411129/firearms-register-among-second-raft-of-gun-law-reforms-announced-by-pm |access-date=22 July 2019 |publisher=Stuff |date=22 July 2019 |archive-date=22 July 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190722052031/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/christchurch-shooting/114411129/firearms-register-among-second-raft-of-gun-law-reforms-announced-by-pm |url-status=live }}

In terms of defence policy, the Government announced the withdrawal of New Zealand forces in Iraq by June 2020. The New Zealand Defence Force's non-combat Building Partner Capacity (BPC) training mission had been training Iraqi Security Forces in support of the US-led coalition efforts to combat Islamic State forces in Iraq.{{cite news |last1=Ardern |first1=Jacinda |last2=Peters |first2=Winston |last3=Mark |first3=Ron |title=New Zealand to withdraw from Iraq in June 2020 |url=http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PA1906/S00075/new-zealand-to-withdraw-from-iraq-in-june-2020.htm |access-date=12 June 2019 |agency=Scoop |publisher=New Zealand Government |date=10 June 2019 |archive-date=11 June 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190611212705/http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PA1906/S00075/new-zealand-to-withdraw-from-iraq-in-june-2020.htm |url-status=live }} In June 2019, the New Zealand military deployment in Afghanistan was extended for another 18 months.{{cite news |last1=Cooke |first1=Henry |title=NZ troops coming home from Iraq, staying in Afghanistan for at least another 18 months |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/113365868/nz-troops-coming-home-from-iraq |access-date=12 June 2019 |publisher=Stuff |date=10 June 2019 |archive-date=10 June 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190610170621/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/113365868/nz-troops-coming-home-from-iraq |url-status=live }} In June 2019, Defence Minister Ron Mark unveiled the Government's $20 billion Defence Capability Plan 2019, which aimed to boost the Defence Force's capabilities, equipment and manpower over the next 11 years.{{cite news |last1=Walls |first1=Jason |title=The Defence Force $20b spending plan includes a commitment to 'space-based activities' |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12239146 |access-date=12 June 2019 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=11 June 2019 |archive-date=12 June 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190612011303/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12239146 |url-status=live }}

In terms of economic development, the Government allocated NZ$100 million from the Provincial Growth Fund to supporting Māori economic development, NZ$27 million to improving transportation and the horticulture sector around Kaipara District and NZ$20 million to rebuding Hillside Engineering in South Dunedin.{{cite news |last1=Walls |first1=Jason |title=Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announces $100m funding package for Māori development and infrastructure |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12200399 |access-date=5 February 2019 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=3 February 2019 |archive-date=5 February 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190205075038/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12200399 |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last1=Loughrey |first1=David |title=$20m to revitalise 'vital' Hillside Workshop |url=https://www.odt.co.nz/news/dunedin/20m-revitalise-vital-hillside-workshop |access-date=31 October 2019 |work=Otago Daily Times |date=30 October 2019 |archive-date=30 October 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191030132142/https://www.odt.co.nz/news/dunedin/20m-revitalise-vital-hillside-workshop |url-status=live }} In terms of employment policy, Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Iain Lees-Galloway announced that the Government would be raising the minimum wage to NZ$18.90 an hour from April 2020, a $1.20 increase from $17.70.{{cite news |title=Minimum wage to be increased to $18.90 an hour |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/405759/minimum-wage-to-be-increased-to-18-point-90-an-hour |access-date=18 December 2019 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=18 December 2019 |archive-date=18 December 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191218003452/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/405759/minimum-wage-to-be-increased-to-18-point-90-an-hour |url-status=live }}

In terms of education policies, the Education Minister Chris Hipkins announced plans to merge the country's sixteen polytechnics into a "NZ Institute of Skills and Technology" by April 2020 in response to deficits and falling domestic enrolments.{{cite news |last1=Collins |first1=Simon |title=Polytechnic mega-merger will take over apprentices and industry trainees |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12203337 |access-date=15 February 2019 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=13 February 2019 |archive-date=15 February 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190215161440/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12203337 |url-status=live }} In May 2019, the Government invested NZ$95 million into teacher training programmes and scholarships over the next four years in order to address the teacher shortage.{{cite news |last1=Kirk |first1=Stacey |last2=Cooke |first2=Henry |title=Budget 2019: Government pours $95 million over four years into teaching resources |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/112397252/budget-2019-government-hopes-to-pour-95-million-over-four-years-into-teaching-resources |access-date=3 May 2019 |publisher=Stuff |date=2 May 2019 |archive-date=3 May 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190503105052/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/112397252/budget-2019-government-hopes-to-pour-95-million-over-four-years-into-teaching-resources |url-status=live }} In August 2019, the Government proceeded to replace 11 industrial training organisations with several workforce development councils.{{cite news |last1=Gerritsen |first1=John |title=Government confirms major overhaul of polytechnics, apprenticeships |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/395722/government-confirms-major-overhaul-of-polytechnics-apprenticeships |access-date=2 August 2019 |publisher=Radio New Zealand |date=1 August 2019 |archive-date=1 August 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190801041522/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/395722/government-confirms-major-overhaul-of-polytechnics-apprenticeships |url-status=live }} Other notable education policies have included launching a trial free lunch programme, expanding the teaching of New Zealand history (particularly the Treaty of Waitangi and Māori history) in schools, and investing NZ$400 million in school property upgrades.{{cite news |title=Free lunches for school kids, Government announces |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/115375000/free-lunches-for-school-kids-government-announces |access-date=29 August 2019 |publisher=Stuff |date=29 August 2019 |archive-date=29 August 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190829050931/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/115375000/free-lunches-for-school-kids-government-announces |url-status=live }}{{cite news |title=New Zealand history will be compulsory in all schools by 2022 |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/398599/new-zealand-history-will-be-compulsory-in-all-schools-by-2022 |access-date=12 September 2019 |publisher=Radio New Zealand |date=12 September 2019 |archive-date=12 September 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190912085250/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/398599/new-zealand-history-will-be-compulsory-in-all-schools-by-2022 |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last1=McCullough |first1=Yvette |title=Schools get funding boost of nearly $400m for property upgrades |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/404568/schools-get-funding-boost-of-nearly-400m-for-property-upgrades |access-date=21 January 2020 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=1 December 2019 |archive-date=24 December 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191224024056/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/404568/schools-get-funding-boost-of-nearly-400m-for-property-upgrades |url-status=live }}

In terms of electoral law, the Government introduced legislation restoring the voting rights of prisoners serving less than three years imprisonment and banning foreign donations over NZ$50.{{cite news |last1=Christian |first1=Harrison |title=Prisoner voting rights to be restored ahead of 2020 election |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/117658836/prisoner-voting-rights-to-be-restored-ahead-of-2020-election |access-date=24 November 2019 |work=Stuff |date=23 November 2019 |archive-date=27 November 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191127214605/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/117658836/prisoner-voting-rights-to-be-restored-ahead-of-2020-election |url-status=live }}{{cite news |title=Government to ban foreign donations to political parties and candidates |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/404707/government-to-ban-foreign-donations-to-political-parties-and-candidates |access-date=4 December 2019 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=3 December 2019 |archive-date=4 December 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191204022610/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/404707/government-to-ban-foreign-donations-to-political-parties-and-candidates |url-status=live }}

In terms of fiscal policies, the Government ruled out a capital gains tax.{{cite news |title='No mandate' for capital gains tax - PM |url=https://www.radionz.co.nz/news/political/387253/no-mandate-for-capital-gains-tax-pm |access-date=17 April 2019 |publisher=Radio New Zealand |date=17 April 2019 |archive-date=17 April 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190417033337/https://www.radionz.co.nz/news/political/387253/no-mandate-for-capital-gains-tax-pm |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last1=Small |first1=Zane |title=Government rules out capital gains tax |url=https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2019/04/government-rules-out-capital-gains-tax.html |access-date=17 April 2019 |publisher=Newshub |date=17 April 2019 |archive-date=17 April 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190417034051/https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2019/04/government-rules-out-capital-gains-tax.html |url-status=dead }} Key priorities of the 2019 New Zealand budget included creating a new frontline mental health service, investing $40 million in suicide prevention services, stationing nurses at secondary schools, building 1,044 new homes, investing $320 million into specialist services to address family and sexual violence, investing $200 million into apprenticeships and vocational training programs, investing $1 billion into KiwiRail, and investing $1.7 billion and $1.2 billion into repairing hospitals and schools respectively.{{cite news |last1=Cooke |first1=Henry |title=Budget NZ 2019: Wellbeing Budget by the numbers |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/budget/113125642/budget-nz-2019-wellbeing-budget-by-the-numbers |access-date=1 June 2019 |publisher=Stuff |date=30 May 2019 |archive-date=31 May 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190531163017/https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/budget/113125642/budget-nz-2019-wellbeing-budget-by-the-numbers |url-status=live }} In October 2019 the New Zealand Treasury and Finance Minister Grant Robertson released a report stating that the Government's surplus had increased from NZ$2 billion to NZ$7.5 billion. The net Government debt had also fallen to 19.2% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP), which is still short of its self-imposed Budget Responsibility Rules to keep debt at less than 20% of GDP. The total government revenue also increased from NZ$6.2 billion to NZ$86.5 billion as a result of taxation. However, the total district health board deficit rose to NZ$1 billion.{{cite news |last1=Walls |first1=Jason |title=Crown accounts: Government's $7.5b surplus is the biggest since 2008 GFC |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12274510 |access-date=9 October 2019 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=8 October 2019 |archive-date=9 October 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191009113020/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12274510 |url-status=live }} The net Crown debt rose by 0.2% from NZ$57.5 billion in the 2017-2018 financial year to NZ$57.7 billion in 2019.

{{cite news |last1=Whyte |first1=Anna |title=As Government surplus climbs to $7.5b, PM declines to say if tax cut will be considered |url=https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/government-surplus-climbs-7-5b-pm-declines-say-if-tax-cut-considered |access-date=9 October 2019 |work=1News |date=8 October 2019 |archive-date=8 October 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191008152913/https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/government-surplus-climbs-7-5b-pm-declines-say-if-tax-cut-considered |url-status=live }} In response, National's Economic development spokesman Todd McClay claimed that the Government was not investing enough money in taxpayers and highlighted declining business confidence.{{cite news |title=Govt surplus increases to $7.5 billion |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/400515/govt-surplus-increases-to-7-point-5-billion |access-date=9 October 2019 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=8 October 2019 |archive-date=9 October 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191009081123/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/400515/govt-surplus-increases-to-7-point-5-billion |url-status=live }}

In terms of health policies, the Government ordered 12 new radiation machines, invested NZ$60 million into Pharmac as part of a ten-year cancer action plan and created a Cancer Control Agency and Suicide Prevention Office.{{cite news |last1=Junn |first1=Jihee |title=Cheat sheet: New cancer treatment for regions announced |url=https://thespinoff.co.nz/politics/05-08-2019/cheat-sheet-government-announces-new-cancer-treatment-in-regions/ |access-date=5 August 2019 |publisher=The Spinoff |date=5 August 2019 |archive-date=5 August 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190805000213/https://thespinoff.co.nz/politics/05-08-2019/cheat-sheet-government-announces-new-cancer-treatment-in-regions/ |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last1=Brown |first1=Karen |title=Government to establish a Cancer Control Agency and give Pharmac an extra $60m |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/397898/government-to-establish-a-cancer-control-agency-and-give-pharmac-an-extra-60m |access-date=1 September 2019 |publisher=Radio New Zealand |date=1 September 2019 |archive-date=1 September 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190901035152/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/397898/government-to-establish-a-cancer-control-agency-and-give-pharmac-an-extra-60m |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last1=Devlin |first1=Collette |title=Government sets up Suicide Prevention Office as part of national strategy |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/115669864/government-sets-up-suicide-prevention-office-as-part-of-strategy-to-help-save-lives |access-date=10 September 2019 |publisher=Stuff |date=10 September 2019 |archive-date=1 October 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191001040833/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/115669864/government-sets-up-suicide-prevention-office-as-part-of-strategy-to-help-save-lives |url-status=live }} The Government also responded to a national measles outbreak by creating a National Health Coordination Centre.{{cite news |title=Measles outbreak: 759 cases now confirmed in Auckland |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/397792/measles-outbreak-759-cases-now-confirmed-in-auckland |access-date=1 September 2019 |publisher=Radio New Zealand |date=30 August 2019 |archive-date=1 September 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190901035115/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/397792/measles-outbreak-759-cases-now-confirmed-in-auckland |url-status=live }}

In terms of housing policies, Minister of Housing and Urban Development Phil Twyford admitted in January 2019 that the government would be unable to meet its target of building 1,000 KiwiBuild homes by 1 July, with only 33 homes being built as of 23 January. The minister estimated that the government would be able to build only 300 houses by the 1 July deadline.{{cite news |last1=Cooke |first1=Henry |title=Phil Twyford says only 300 KiwiBuild homes are due to be finished by July |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/110113848/phil-twyford-says-only-300-kiwibuild-homes-are-due-to-be-finished-by-july |access-date=24 January 2019 |publisher=Stuff |date=23 January 2019 |archive-date=24 January 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190124014611/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/110113848/phil-twyford-says-only-300-kiwibuild-homes-are-due-to-be-finished-by-july |url-status=live }} In early September, Housing Minister Megan Woods announced that the Government would be revising its KiwiBuild programme, including scrapping its initial target of building 100,000 houses over the next years.{{cite news |last1=Whyte |first1=Anna |title=KiwiBuild reset sees 100,000 house target scrapped, 5% deposits for first home buyers introduced |url=https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/kiwibuild-reset-sees-100-000-house-target-scrapped-5-deposits-first-home-buyers-introduced |access-date=5 September 2019 |publisher=1News |date=4 September 2019 |archive-date=4 September 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190904235846/https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/kiwibuild-reset-sees-100-000-house-target-scrapped-5-deposits-first-home-buyers-introduced |url-status=live }} In mid August 2019, the Associate Housing Minister Kris Faafoi and Social Development Minister Carmel Sepuloni announced that the Government would be launching a NZ$54 million program to tackle homelessness in New Zealand by hiring more staff to work with homeless people and investing $16 million in the Sustaining Tenancies Programme.{{cite news |last1=Jancic |first1=Boris |title=Government announces $54 million to help keep people off the streets |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12259520 |access-date=19 August 2019 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=18 August 2019 |archive-date=18 August 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190818152303/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12259520 |url-status=live }} In November 2019, Associate Housing Minister Kris Faafoi confirmed plans to amend the Residential Tenancies Act 1986 in favour of tenants' rights.{{cite news |last1=Junn |first1=Jihee |title=Cheat sheet: Big changes for rental laws announced |url=https://thespinoff.co.nz/society/17-11-2019/cheat-sheet-big-changes-for-rental-laws-announced/ |access-date=19 November 2019 |work=The Spinoff |date=17 November 2019 |archive-date=19 November 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191119054056/https://thespinoff.co.nz/society/17-11-2019/cheat-sheet-big-changes-for-rental-laws-announced/ |url-status=live }}

In terms of immigration policies, the Government scrapped the requirement for African and Middle Eastern refugee applicants to have relatives who were residing in New Zealand and ending a partnership visa policy that discriminated against Indian arranged marriages.{{cite news |title=Government scraps refugee policy labelled as racist by migrant advocates |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/400277/government-scraps-refugee-policy-labelled-as-racist-by-migrant-advocates |access-date=4 October 2019 |publisher=Radio New Zealand |date=4 October 2019 |archive-date=30 December 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191230134644/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/400277/government-scraps-refugee-policy-labelled-as-racist-by-migrant-advocates |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last1=Bradford |first1=Katie |title=Controversial partnership visa decision set to be reversed by Immigration New Zealand |url=https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/controversial-partnership-visa-decision-set-reversed-immigration-new-zealand |access-date=7 November 2019 |work=1News |date=6 November 2019 |archive-date=7 November 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191107081413/https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/controversial-partnership-visa-decision-set-reversed-immigration-new-zealand |url-status=live }}

Other notable miscellaneous legislation in 2019 have included overturning "blasphemous libel" legislation, passing the End of Life Choice Act 2019 subject to a referendum at the next election and passing the Climate Change Response (Zero Carbon) Amendment Act.{{cite news |last1=Ensor |first1=Jamie |title='Archaic' blasphemous libel law repealed in Parliament |url=https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2019/03/archaic-blasphemous-libel-law-repealed-in-parliament.html |access-date=15 March 2019 |publisher=Newshub |date=6 March 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190306040652/https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2019/03/archaic-blasphemous-libel-law-repealed-in-parliament.html |archive-date=6 March 2019}}{{cite news |last1=Jancic |first1=Boris |title=End of Life Choice Bill passes: What it means |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12284751 |access-date=15 November 2019 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=14 November 2019 |archive-date=14 November 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191114195321/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12284751 |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last1=Young |first1=Audrey |title=Zero Carbon Bill passes with almost unanimous support in Parliament |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12283372 |access-date=7 November 2019 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=7 November 2019 |archive-date=8 November 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191108191843/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12283372 |url-status=live }} Other notable Government actions in 2019 have included re-entering Pike River Mine, upgrading the New Zealand–China Free Trade Agreement, and apologizing to the victims of the Erebus air disaster.{{cite news |last1=Carroll |first1=Joanne |title=Pike River re-entry finally a reality after eight-year battle |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/the-press/news/west-coast/112896213/pike-river-reentry-finally-a-reality-after-eightyear-battle#comments |access-date=22 May 2019 |publisher=Stuff |date=22 May 2019 |archive-date=9 July 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709222450/https://www.stuff.co.nz/the-press/news/west-coast/112896213/pike-river-reentry-finally-a-reality-after-eightyear-battle#comments |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last1=Patterson |first1=Jane |title=NZ strikes deal on China FTA upgrade after years of talks |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/402505/nz-strikes-deal-on-china-fta-upgrade-after-years-of-talks |access-date=5 November 2019 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=4 November 2019 |archive-date=5 November 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191105012050/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/402505/nz-strikes-deal-on-china-fta-upgrade-after-years-of-talks |url-status=live }}{{Cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2019/nov/28/mount-erebus-plane-crash-ardern-apologises-40-years-after-air-new-zealand-crash-that-killed-257|title='The time has come': Ardern apologises for New Zealand's worst air disaster|last=Roy|first=Eleanor Ainge|date=2019-11-28|work=The Guardian |access-date=30 November 2019|language=en-GB|issn=0261-3077|archive-date=28 November 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191128180450/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2019/nov/28/mount-erebus-plane-crash-ardern-apologises-40-years-after-air-new-zealand-crash-that-killed-257|url-status=live}}

The global Covid-19 pandemic dominated the Government's attention and priorities for much of 2020. In late January, the Government chartered an Air New Zealand aircraft to assist in evacuating New Zealand, Australian, and Pacific Island nationals from Wuhan.{{Cite news |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/news/article.cfm?c_id=3&objectid=12304977 |title=Coronavirus: Air New Zealand rescue flight details revealed |last=Bradley |first=Grant |date=31 January 2020 |work=The New Zealand Herald |access-date=31 January 2020 |issn=1170-0777 |archive-date=20 March 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200320163753/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/news/article.cfm?c_id=3&objectid=12304977 |url-status=live }} On 2 February, temporary travel bans were imposed on COVID-hit countries like China and Iran.{{cite news |date=2 February 2020 |title=NZ to close doors on foreign travellers from China |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/408675/nz-to-close-doors-on-foreign-travellers-from-china |work=Radio New Zealand |access-date=2 February 2020 |archive-date=2 February 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200202043654/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/408675/nz-to-close-doors-on-foreign-travellers-from-china |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last1=Whyte |first1=Anna |title=NZ's coronavirus travel ban extended to Iran, no exemptions for students from China |url=https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/nzs-coronavirus-travel-ban-extended-iran-no-exemptions-students-china |access-date=28 February 2020 |work=1News |date=28 February 2020 |archive-date=7 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200507145912/https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/nzs-coronavirus-travel-ban-extended-iran-no-exemptions-students-china |url-status=live }} New Zealand's first COVID-19 case was confirmed on 28 February 2020.{{cite news |last1=Chumko |first1=Andre |title=Coronavirus: First case of virus in New Zealand |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/119899280/ministry-of-health-gives-latest-update-on-novel-coronavirus |access-date=28 February 2020 |work=Stuff |date=28 February 2020 |archive-date=28 February 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200228171221/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/119899280/ministry-of-health-gives-latest-update-on-novel-coronavirus |url-status=live }}

On 14 March, the Government imposed isolation requirements on foreign travellers, which was followed by a strict border closure on 19 March.{{cite news |title=Live - Everyone travelling to NZ from overseas to self-isolate |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/411738/live-everyone-travelling-to-nz-from-overseas-to-self-isolate |access-date=14 March 2020 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=14 March 2020 |archive-date=18 April 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200418210801/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/411738/live-everyone-travelling-to-nz-from-overseas-to-self-isolate |url-status=live }}{{cite news |title=PM places border ban on all non-residents and permanent residents entering NZ |url=https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/pm-places-border-ban-all-non-residents-and-permanent-entering-nz |access-date=20 March 2020 |work=TVNZ |date=19 March 2020 |language=en-NZ |archive-date=19 March 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200319210134/https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/pm-places-border-ban-all-non-residents-and-permanent-entering-nz |url-status=live }} On 21 March, Ardern introduced a COVID-19 alert level system after COVID-19 cases rose to 52.{{cite news |last1=Cheng |first1=Derek |title=Coronavirus: PM Jacinda Ardern outlines NZ's new alert system, over-70s should stay at home |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12318673 |access-date=21 March 2020 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=21 March 2020 |archive-date=21 March 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200321113000/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12318673 |url-status=live }} On 25 March, the COVID-19 alert system was raised to Level 4, leading to the closure of schools and most businesses with the exception of essential services such as supermarkets, petrol stations and health providers.{{cite news |last1=Palmer |first1=Scott |title=Coronavirus: New Zealand goes to COVID-19 alert level 3 |url=https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/new-zealand/2020/03/coronavirus-new-zealand-goes-to-covid-19-alert-level-3.html |access-date=23 March 2020 |work=Newshub |date=28 March 2020 |archive-date=23 March 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200323055338/https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/new-zealand/2020/03/coronavirus-new-zealand-goes-to-covid-19-alert-level-3.html |url-status=dead }} To comply with lockdown policies, Parliament adjourned for five weeks commencing 27 March.{{cite news |last1=Dreaver |first1=Charlie |title=Special committee set-up as Parliament is adjourned |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/412520/special-committee-set-up-as-parliament-is-adjourned |access-date=27 March 2020 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=26 March 2020 |archive-date=26 March 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200326164026/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/412520/special-committee-set-up-as-parliament-is-adjourned |url-status=live }} Prior to Parliament's closure, it passed three bills with cross-party support dealing with emergency spending, remitting interest on tax owed after 14 February, allowing local authorities to meet remotely, governments to take over schools, and suspending no-cause evictions and rent increases for six months.{{cite web |last1=Farrar |first1=David |title=The bills passed under urgency |url=https://www.kiwiblog.co.nz/2020/03/the_bills_passed_under_urgency.html |website=Kiwiblog |access-date=27 March 2020 |date=26 March 2020 |archive-date=27 March 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200327224338/https://www.kiwiblog.co.nz/2020/03/the_bills_passed_under_urgency.html |url-status=live }} On 25 March, it was announced that Leader of the Opposition Simon Bridges would chair a cross-party committee called the Epidemic Response Committee to scrutinise the government's response to COVID-19.{{cite news |title=Simon Bridges to chair bipartisan select committee on Covid-19 |url=https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/mike-hosking-breakfast/audio/simon-bridges-to-chair-bipartisan-select-committee-on-covid-19/ |access-date=27 March 2020 |work=Newstalk ZB |date=25 March 2020 |archive-date=26 March 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200326023255/https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/mike-hosking-breakfast/audio/simon-bridges-to-chair-bipartisan-select-committee-on-covid-19/ |url-status=live }}

Due to declining transmission rates, COVID-19 lockdown restrictions were eased between 28 April and 25 May, allowing more businesses, schools and public gatherings to reopen.{{cite news |last1=Sachdeva |first1=Sam |title=Ardern: NZ to leave lockdown in a week |url=https://www.newsroom.co.nz/2020/04/20/1136611/ardern-nz-to-leave-lockdown-in-a-week |access-date=20 April 2020 |work=Newsroom |date=20 April 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200420044138/https://www.newsroom.co.nz/2020/04/20/1136611/ardern-nz-to-leave-lockdown-in-a-week |archive-date=20 April 2020}}{{cite news |title=Schools can reopen from April 29, Jacinda Ardern announces |url=https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/new-zealand-s-alert-level-4-lockdown-lift-april-27-pm-announces?auto=6150683911001 |access-date=20 April 2020 |work=1News |date=20 April 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200420044302/https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/new-zealand-s-alert-level-4-lockdown-lift-april-27-pm-announces?auto=6150683911001 |url-status=dead |archive-date=20 April 2020}}{{cite news |last1=Cheng |first1=Derek |title=Live: Mass gatherings to increase to 100 max from noon Friday |url=https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/live-mass-gatherings-to-increase-to-100-max-from-noon-friday/ |access-date=25 May 2020 |work=Newstalk ZB |date=25 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200525044836/https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/jacinda-ardern-mass-gatherings-to-increase-to-100-max-from-noon-friday/ |archive-date=25 May 2020}} On 13 May, the Government passed the COVID-19 Public Health Response Act 2020 which empowered Police to enter homes to enforce lockdown restrictions without a warrant.{{cite news |last1=Wade |first1=Amelia |title=Covid-19 coronavirus: Controversial bill passed to enforce alert level 2 powers |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12331547 |access-date=14 May 2020 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=14 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200513223302/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12331547 |archive-date=13 May 2020}} On 20 May, the Government released a COVID-19 contact tracing app called the NZ COVID Tracer.{{cite news |title=Covid 19 coronavirus: 'Digital diary' tracing app trips up; users unable to log on, 'can't use it' |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12333297 |access-date=20 May 2020 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=20 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200520010326/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12333297 |archive-date=20 May 2020}} By 3 June, the Government had eliminated social distancing restrictions at businesses, public transportation and all public gatherings.{{cite news |title=Covid-19 rules and restrictions on businesses to be lifted under alert level 1 |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/418155/covid-19-rules-and-restrictions-on-businesses-to-be-lifted-under-alert-level-1 |access-date=3 June 2020 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=3 June 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200603034751/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/418155/covid-19-rules-and-restrictions-on-businesses-to-be-lifted-under-alert-level-1 |archive-date=3 June 2020}}

To address the economic impact of COVID-19, the Government announced various relief measures including a NZ$12.1 billion business package, a NZ$56.4 million Māori communities and businesses assistance package, NZ$27 million to support social service providers such as the Salvation Army and Women's Refuge, a NZ$1.5 billion wage subsidy scheme, a NZ$50 million media support package, a NZ$23 billion omnibus business support package, and a NZ$1.2 billion unemployment relief package.{{cite news |last1=Whyte |first1=Anna |title='We will get through this crisis' - Govt announces $12.1 billion coronavirus rescue package |url=https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/its-just-beginning-govt-announces-12-1-billion-coronavirus-rescue-package |access-date=17 March 2020 |work=1News |date=17 March 2020 |archive-date=17 March 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200317063010/https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/its-just-beginning-govt-announces-12-1-billion-coronavirus-rescue-package |url-status=live }}{{cite news |title=Over $56 million prioritised for Māori communities in coronavirus support package |url=https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/over-56-million-prioritised-m-ori-communities-in-coronavirus-support-package |access-date=30 March 2020 |work=1News |date=22 March 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200330075846/https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/over-56-million-prioritised-m-ori-communities-in-coronavirus-support-package |archive-date=30 March 2020}}{{cite news |last1=Manch |first1=Thomas |last2=Cooke |first2=Henry |last3=Coughlan |first3=Thomas |title=Coronavirus: Government to give $27m to social service agencies for vulnerable amid lockdown |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/coronavirus/120590463/coronavirus-prime-minister-jacinda-ardern-to-update-lockeddown-new-zealand |access-date=27 March 2020 |work=Stuff |date=26 March 2020 |archive-date=26 March 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200326024143/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/coronavirus/120590463/coronavirus-prime-minister-jacinda-ardern-to-update-lockeddown-new-zealand |url-status=live }}{{cite news |title=Coronavirus: Live Covid-19 updates in NZ and around the world on 26 March |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/412620/coronavirus-live-covid-19-updates-in-nz-and-around-the-world-on-26-march |access-date=27 March 2020 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=26 March 2020 |archive-date=25 March 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200325222311/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/412620/coronavirus-live-covid-19-updates-in-nz-and-around-the-world-on-26-march |url-status=live }}{{cite news |title=Covid-19: Government announces support package for media sector |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/414946/covid-19-government-announces-support-package-for-media-sector |access-date=23 April 2020 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=23 April 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200423073120/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/414946/covid-19-government-announces-support-package-for-media-sector |archive-date=23 April 2020}}{{cite news |last1=Walls |first1=Jason |title=Covid 19 coronavirus: MPs unanimously pass biggest tax support package in NZ's history |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12328723 |access-date=1 May 2020 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=1 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200501112708/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12328723 |archive-date=1 May 2020}}{{cite news |last1=Manch |first1=Thomas |title=Coronavirus: Weekly $490 payments for unemployed workers in $1.2b Government relief scheme |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/coronavirus/121614298/coronavirus-weekly-490-payments-for-unemployed-workers-in-12b-government-relief-scheme |access-date=27 May 2020 |work=Stuff |date=25 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200527040202/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/coronavirus/121614298/coronavirus-weekly-490-payments-for-unemployed-workers-in-12b-government-relief-scheme |archive-date=27 May 2020}} In late March 2020, Finance Minister Grant Robertson confirmed the government was negotiating with banks to ensure that nobody would lose their homes as a result of defaulting on mortgage payments during the pandemic.{{cite news |title=Covid 19 coronavirus lockdown: Your questions answered |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12319266 |access-date=24 March 2020 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=24 March 2020 |ref=NZH lockdown questions |archive-date=24 March 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200324001050/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12319266 |url-status=live }} In mid-April, Ardern and National Party leader Simon Bridges confirmed that several ministers and MPs would take a 20 percent pay cut.{{cite news |title=Covid-19 live updates, April 15: 20 new cases; Ministers to take a pay cut |url=https://thespinoff.co.nz/society/15-04-2020/covid-19-live-updates-april-15-trump-versus-the-states/ |access-date=15 April 2020 |work=The Spinoff |date=15 April 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200415021052/https://thespinoff.co.nz/society/15-04-2020/covid-19-live-updates-april-15-trump-versus-the-states/|archive-date=15 April 2020}} The 2020 budget released on 18 June had a large focus on COVID-19 relief, with key provisions including a NZ$50 billion COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund and a NZ$3.2 billion wage subsidy scheme.{{cite news |last1=Dreaver |first1=Charlie |title=Budget 2020: What you need to know |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/budget-2020/416634/budget-2020-what-you-need-to-know |access-date=18 May 2020 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=18 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200514025600/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/budget-2020/416634/budget-2020-what-you-need-to-know |archive-date=14 May 2020}}

Following the discovery of four community COVID-19 cases in Auckland on 11 August, the Government reintroduced national lockdown restrictions, with heightened restrictions for epicentre Auckland.{{cite news |title=Covid 19 coronavirus: Auckland in lockdown - Four cases of community transmission |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12355759 |access-date=11 August 2020 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=11 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200811093903/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12355759 |archive-date=11 August 2020}}{{cite news |last1=Whyte |first1=Anna |title=Auckland to remain under Level 3 lockdown restrictions until Sunday evening, rest of NZ stays at Level 2 |url=https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/auckland-remain-under-level-3-lockdown-restrictions-until-sunday-evening-rest-nz-stays-2 |access-date=24 August 2020 |work=1News |date=24 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200824050229/https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/auckland-remain-under-level-3-lockdown-restrictions-until-sunday-evening-rest-nz-stays-2 |archive-date=24 August 2020|url-status=live}} Due to the outbreak, Ardern also delayed the 2020 New Zealand general election from 19 September until 17 October in response to the recent outbreak in COVID-19 community transmissions.{{cite news|url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/coronavirus/122466319/live-jacinda-ardern-delays-election-to-october-17-amid-coronavirus-outbreak|title=Live: Jacinda Ardern delays election to October 17 amid coronavirus outbreak|first=Brittney|last=Deguara|work=Stuff|date=17 August 2020|access-date=17 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200817010430/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/coronavirus/122466319/live-ashley-bloomfields-coronavirus-update-as-jacinda-ardern-delays-election|archive-date=17 August 2020|url-status=live}} In addition, the dissolution of Parliament was pushed back to 6 September.{{cite news|url=https://www.interest.co.nz/news/106573/general-election-be-moved-october-17-september-19-dissolution-parliament-deferred|title=Election deferred by four weeks to October 17; Treasury's pre-election economic update pushed out|first=Jenée|last=Tibshraeny|website=Interest.co.nz|date=17 August 2020|access-date=17 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200817011425/https://www.interest.co.nz/news/106573/general-election-be-moved-october-17-september-19-dissolution-parliament-deferred|archive-date=17 August 2020|url-status=live}} While the Government's second lockdowns were supported by Cabinet, NZ First leader Winston Peters and ACT leader David Seymour regarded them as unnecessary and economically damaging.{{cite news |last1=Cheng |first1=Derek |title=Covid-19 coronavirus: Auckland stays at level 2.5, rest of NZ likely to move to level 1 next week - Jacinda Ardern |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12364732 |access-date=14 September 2020 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=14 September 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200914021241/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12364732 |archive-date=14 September 2020|url-status=live}} Lockdown restrictions were eased on 21 September, with limits on public gatherings.{{cite news |last1=Wade |first1=Amelia |title=Covid 19 coronavirus: Auckland moving to alert level 2 and NZ to level 1 - Jacinda Ardern |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12366570 |access-date=21 September 2020 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=21 September 2020 |url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200921232253/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12366570|archive-date=21 September 2020}}

On 12 October 2020, the Government signed an agreement with Pfizer and BioNTech to purchase 1.5 million COVID-19 vaccines and established a NZ$66.3 million fund to support COVID-19 immunisation programme.{{cite news |title=Government signs agreement to purchase 1.5m Covid-19 vaccines, enough for 750k people |url=https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/government-signs-agreement-purchase-1-5m-covid-19-vaccines-enough-750k-people |access-date=12 October 2020 |work=1News |date=12 October 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201012041410/https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/government-signs-agreement-purchase-1-5m-covid-19-vaccines-enough-750k-people |archive-date=12 October 2020}}

In terms of education, the Government announced the introduction of climate change education into the school curriculum and gave parents the ability to consent to their children receiving religious instruction in schools.{{cite web |last1=Hipkins |first1=Chris |title=New resource for schools to increase awareness and understanding of climate change |url=https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/new-resource-schools-increase-awareness-and-understanding-climate-change |website=Beehive.govt.nz |publisher=New Zealand Government |access-date=21 January 2020 |archive-date=16 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200116071825/https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/new-resource-schools-increase-awareness-and-understanding-climate-change |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last1=Young |first1=Audrey |title=Changes planned for religious instruction in state schools |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12299424 |access-date=21 January 2020 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=13 January 2020 |archive-date=21 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200121050953/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12299424 |url-status=live }} During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Government announced a NZ$87.7 million distance learning package, a NZ$130 million tertiary students' support package, and extending the school lunch programme.{{cite news |last1=Devlin |first1=Collette |title=Covid-19: PM Jacinda Ardern urges parents not to feel teaching pressure about $88m learning from home package |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/education/120897089/coronavirus-government-reveals-88m-learning-from-home-package-for-all-students|access-date=8 April 2020 |work=Stuff |date=8 April 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200408074936/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/education/120897089/coronavirus-government-reveals-88m-learning-from-home-package-for-all-students|archive-date=8 April 2020}}{{cite news |last1=Hipkins |first1=Chris |title=COVID-19: Tertiary student support package |url=https://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PA2004/S00075/covid-19-tertiary-student-support-package.htm |access-date=14 April 2020 |work=Scoop |publisher=New Zealand Government |date=14 April 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200414101327/https://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PA2004/S00075/covid-19-tertiary-student-support-package.htm|archive-date=14 April 2020}}{{cite news |title=Major expansion of school lunch programme |url=https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/major-expansion-school-lunch-programme|website=Beehive.govt.nz

|publisher=New Zealand Government |access-date=11 May 2024|date=14 May 2020 }} On 13 May, Education Minister Hipkins moved the National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA) high school exams from 6 November to 16 November.{{cite news |title=Covid-19 live updates, May 13: Alert level two law passes; changes to rules for funerals and tangi |url=https://thespinoff.co.nz/politics/13-05-2020/covid-19-live-updates-may-13-alert-level-two-law-may-go-right-down-to-the-wire/ |access-date=14 May 2020 |work=The Spinoff |date=13 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200514012504/https://thespinoff.co.nz/politics/13-05-2020/covid-19-live-updates-may-13-alert-level-two-law-may-go-right-down-to-the-wire/ |archive-date=14 May 2020}} In June, the Government launched a NZ$2.6 million trial initiative to combat "period poverty" by distributing sanitary products in 15 Waikato high schools.{{cite news |last1=Roy |first1=Eleanor |title=New Zealand tackles 'period poverty' with free sanitary products for all schoolgirls |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/jun/03/new-zealand-tackles-period-poverty-with-free-sanitary-products-for-all-schoolgirls |access-date=5 June 2020 |work=The Guardian |date=3 June 2020 |archive-date=5 June 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200605011834/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/jun/03/new-zealand-tackles-period-poverty-with-free-sanitary-products-for-all-schoolgirls |url-status=live }}

In terms of electoral law, the Government coalition parties passed legislation in June 2020 restoring the right to vote for prisoners serving sentences of less than three years and abolishing the Electoral Commission's power to remove voters from the electoral roll.{{cite news |last1=Cooke |first1=Henry |title=Bizarre scenes as Parliament legalises prisoner voting |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/300041853/bizarre-scenes-as-parliament-legalises-prisoner-voting |access-date=26 June 2020 |work=Stuff |date=24 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200624224133/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/300041853/bizarre-scenes-as-parliament-legalises-prisoner-voting|archive-date=24 June 2020}} In terms of firearms policy, the Government passed legislation establishing a new firearms licensing entity and allowing farms and agrarian businesses to apply for firearms endorsements for pest control purposes.{{cite news |title=Firearm legislation passes final reading |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/419323/firearm-legislation-passes-final-reading |access-date=19 June 2020 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=18 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200619004235/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/419323/firearm-legislation-passes-final-reading|archive-date=19 June 2020}}

In terms of foreign policies, the Government dispatched firefighters, medical personnel, and elements of the Royal New Zealand Air Force and New Zealand Army to assist with firefighting efforts during the 2019–20 Australian bushfire season.{{cite web |last1=Mark |first1=Ron |title=NZDF sends more support to Australia |url=https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/nzdf-sends-more-support-australia |website=Beehive.govt.nz |access-date=13 January 2020 |date=10 January 2020 |archive-date=13 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200113203103/https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/nzdf-sends-more-support-australia |url-status=live }} In late February, Ardern allocated NZ$2 million to Fiji's climate change relocation fund.{{cite news |last1=Moir |first1=Jo |title=New Zealand to give $2m to Fiji climate change relocation fund |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/410430/new-zealand-to-give-2m-to-fiji-climate-change-relocation-fund |access-date=26 February 2020 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=26 February 2020 |archive-date=26 February 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200226050454/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/410430/new-zealand-to-give-2m-to-fiji-climate-change-relocation-fund |url-status=live }} In early May, Ardern met with Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison and several Australian state and territorial leaders to discuss the development of a trans-Tasman COVID-safe travel zone.{{cite news |last1=Wescott |first1=Ben |title=Australia and New Zealand pledge to introduce travel corridor in rare coronavirus meeting |url=https://edition.cnn.com/2020/05/05/australia/australia-new-zealand-ardern-coronavirus-intl-hnk/index.html |access-date=7 May 2020 |work=CNN |date=5 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200505194308/https://edition.cnn.com/2020/05/05/australia/australia-new-zealand-ardern-coronavirus-intl-hnk/ |archive-date=5 May 2020}} In late July, Ardern and Foreign Minister Peters announced that New Zealand would suspend its extradition treaty with Hong Kong in response to the Chinese Government's Hong Kong national security law introduced earlier that month.{{cite news |last1=Young |first1=Audrey |last2=Walls |first2=Jason |title=NZ suspends extradition treaty with Hong Kong - Ardern says new law not consistent with 'NZ's principles' |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12351595 |access-date=28 July 2020 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=28 July 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200728035040/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12351595 |archive-date=28 July 2020}}

In terms of health policies, the Government passed legislation decriminalising abortion, allocated significant public funding to purchasing personal protective equipment, ventilators and respiratory equipment, and supporting drugs and medicines purchasing agency Pharmac, close contact tracing and immunisation.{{cite news |title=Abortion Legislation Bill passes third and final reading in Parliament |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/412087/abortion-legislation-bill-passes-third-and-final-reading-in-parliament |accessdate=18 March 2020 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=18 March 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200330023938/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/412087/abortion-legislation-bill-passes-third-and-final-reading-in-parliament|archive-date=30 March 2020}}{{cite news |last1=Small |first1=Zane |title=Government invests $150m in COVID-19 protective gear, returnees required to wear face masks |url=https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2020/06/government-invests-150m-in-covid-19-protective-gear-returnees-required-to-wear-face-masks.html |access-date=29 June 2020 |work=Newshub |date=29 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200629051822/https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2020/06/government-invests-150m-in-covid-19-protective-gear-returnees-required-to-wear-face-masks.html|archive-date=29 June 2020}}{{cite news |last1=Cheng |first1=Derek |title=Covid 19 coronavirus: One new case today; health sector gets $302m funding boost |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12349665 |access-date=21 July 2020 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=21 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200721014018/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12349665|archive-date=21 July 2020}} In terms of housing, the Government passed legislation which eliminated rental bidding and "no-cause" evictions, raised the period of rent increases to 12 months and allowed victims of domestic violence to end a tenancy within two days' notice.{{cite news |title=Bill to strengthen renters' rights passes final reading in Parliament |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/422848/bill-to-strengthen-renters-rights-passes-final-reading-in-parliament |access-date=6 August 2020 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=5 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806080804/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/422848/bill-to-strengthen-renters-rights-passes-final-reading-in-parliament |archive-date=6 August 2020}}

In terms of immigration policies, the Government extended temporary work visas due to travel restrictions and introduced fees for travellers quarantining at managed isolation and quarantine facilities.{{cite news |title=Government extends temporary work visas by six months |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/420688/government-extends-temporary-work-visas-by-six-months |access-date=7 July 2020 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=7 July 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200707101331/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/420688/government-extends-temporary-work-visas-by-six-months |archive-date=7 July 2020}}{{cite news |last1=Cooke |first1=Henry |last2=Malpass |first2=Luke |title=Quarantine fee of $3100 to hit temporary visitors or those leaving country after new rules come into effect |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/300068658/quarantine-fee-of-3100-to-hit-temporary-visitors-or-those-leaving-country-after-new-rules-come-into-effect |access-date=29 July 2020 |work=Stuff |date=29 July 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200729103654/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/300068658/quarantine-fee-of-3100-to-hit-temporary-visitors-or-those-leaving-country-after-new-rules-come-into-effect |archive-date=29 July 2020}} In other areas, the Government announced plans to merge TVNZ and Radio New Zealand into a new public broadcasting service, invested NZ$12 billion transport infrastructural New Zealand Upgrade Programme, NZ$300 million into the Aotearoa New Zealand Homelessness Action Plan, and NZ$1.9 million into acquiring fog cannons for dairies following a spate of robberies.{{cite news |last1=Patterson |first1=Jane |title=New details revealed as Cabinet agrees on RNZ, TVNZ public broadcasting decision |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/408355/new-details-revealed-as-cabinet-agrees-on-rnz-tvnz-public-broadcasting-decision |access-date=30 January 2020 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=29 January 2020 |archive-date=28 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200128215229/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/408355/new-details-revealed-as-cabinet-agrees-on-rnz-tvnz-public-broadcasting-decision |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last1=Orsman |first1=Bernard |title=Auckland motorways, Harbour Bridge Skypath big winners in Government's $12 billion infrastructure spend-up |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12304150&ref=art_readmore |access-date=30 January 2020 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=29 January 2020 |archive-date=29 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200129230741/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12304150&ref=art_readmore |url-status=live }}{{cite news |title=Effort to tackle homelessness sees new Government investment of $300 million |url=https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/effort-tackle-homelessness-sees-new-government-investment-300-million |access-date=13 February 2020 |work=1News |date=13 February 2020 |archive-date=13 February 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200213010608/https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/effort-tackle-homelessness-sees-new-government-investment-300-million |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last1=Clent |first1=Danielle |last2=Forbes |first2=Stephen |title=Hundreds of fog cannons to be installed in high-risk areas to cut robberies |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/crime/120062075/hundreds-of-fog-cannons-to-be-installed-in-highrisk-areas-to-cut-robberies |access-date=6 March 2020 |work=Stuff |date=6 March 2020 |archive-date=6 March 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200306191823/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/crime/120062075/hundreds-of-fog-cannons-to-be-installed-in-highrisk-areas-to-cut-robberies |url-status=live }} In late June, the Government abandoned plans to build light rail connecting the Auckland CBD with Auckland Airport in Manukau due to disagreements between Labour and NZ First.{{cite news |last1=Coughlan |first1=Thomas |title=Government's flagship transport policy axed |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/300041249/governments-flagship-transport-policy-axed |access-date=26 June 2020 |work=Stuff |date=24 June 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200624211406/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/300041249/governments-flagship-transport-policy-axed |archive-date=24 June 2020}}

On 9 March, Ardern appointed Andrew Coster as the new Commissioner of Police, replacing Mike Bush who resigned in April 2020.{{cite news |last1=Wade |first1=Amelia |title=New Police Commissioner Andrew Coster announced by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12315174 |access-date=9 March 2020 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=9 March 2020 |archive-date=9 March 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200309092954/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12315174 |url-status=live }} Two high profile ministerial resignations also occurred that year. On 2 July, Health Minister David Clark resigned from his portfolio after breaching COVID-19 lockdown restrictions.{{cite news |last1=Coughlan |first1=Thomas |title=David Clark resigns as Health Minister, will contest general election |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/300047391/david-clark-resigns-as-health-minister-will-contest-general-election |access-date=2 July 2020 |work=Stuff |date=2 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200702015422/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/300047391/david-clark-resigns-as-health-minister-will-contest-general-election|archive-date=2 July 2020}} Following Clark's resignation, Ardern appointed Chris Hipkins as interim Health Minister.{{cite news |last1=Molyneux |first1=Vita |title=Why Jacinda Ardern chose Chris Hipkins as temporary Health Minister |url=https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2020/07/why-jacinda-ardern-chose-chris-hipkins-as-temporary-health-minister.html |access-date=2 July 2020 |work=Newshub |date=2 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200702050204/https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2020/07/why-jacinda-ardern-chose-chris-hipkins-as-temporary-health-minister.html|archive-date=2 July 2020}} On 22 July, Ardern dismissed Iain Lees-Galloway from his Immigration, Workplace Relations and Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) ministerial portfolios after he admitted having an inappropriate relationship with a former public service employee.{{cite news |last=Devlin|first=Collette|url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/122208470/workplace-relations-minister-iain-leesgalloway-dismissed-following-relationship-with-staffer |title=Workplace Relations Minister Iain Lees-Galloway dismissed following relationship with staffer |work=Stuff |date=22 July 2020 |access-date=22 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200721232449/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/122208470/workplace-relations-minister-iain-leesgalloway-dismissed-following-relationship-with-staffer|archive-date=21 July 2020}} Following his resignation, Kris Faafoi became Minister of Immigration while Andrew Little became Minister for Workplace Relations and Safety, and Carmel Sepuloni became Minister for ACC.{{cite news |last1=Whyte |first1=Anna |title=PM dismisses Iain Lees-Galloway as minister after 'inappropriate relationship' |url=https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/minister-iain-lees-galloway-resigns-after-fairly-inappropriate-behaviour-allegation |access-date=22 July 2020 |work=1News |date=22 July 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200721232221/https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/minister-iain-lees-galloway-resigns-after-fairly-inappropriate-behaviour-allegation |archive-date=21 July 2020}}

{{Main|Second term of the Sixth Labour Government of New Zealand}}

On 17 October, Labour won the 2020 general election in a landslide, winning 50% of the vote and 65 seats in the House, the first time under the current MMP system that any party won enough seats to govern without a coalition or a confidence and supply agreement.{{cite web|date=2020-11-06|title=2020 General Election and Referendums - Official Result|url=https://electionresults.govt.nz/electionresults_2020/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230621001306/https://www.electionresults.govt.nz/electionresults_2020/|url-status=dead|archive-date=21 June 2023|access-date=2020-11-06|website=Electoral Commission}} Following prolonged negotiations, the Green Party formed a confidence and supply agreement with the Labour Party on 31 October. Under this governing arrangement, co-leader James Shaw would remain Minister for Climate Change and become Associate Environment Minister while fellow co-leader Marama Davidson would become Minister for the Prevention of Family and Sexual Violence and Associate Minister of Housing. During a Zoom call, 85% of the 150 Green Party delegates voted to accept this confidence and supply agreement with Labour.{{cite news |title=Greens accept Labour's offer for 'cooperation agreement' |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/429559/greens-accept-labour-s-offer-for-cooperation-agreement |access-date=31 October 2020 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=31 October 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201031101638/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/429559/greens-accept-labour-s-offer-for-cooperation-agreement |archive-date=31 October 2020|url-status=live}}

During its Speech from the Throne in late November 2020, major Government policy announcements included free COVID-19 vaccination, building 18,000 public homes, raising the minimum wage, replacing the Resource Management Act 1991 and promoting economic recovery from COVID-19 through infrastructure investment and training incentives.{{cite news |last1=Cooke |first1=Henry |title=Government confirms Covid-19 vaccine will be free in speech setting out goals for next three years |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/300168193/government-confirms-covid19-vaccine-will-be-free-in-speech-setting-out-goals-for-next-three-years |access-date=28 November 2020 |work=Stuff |date=26 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201125223910/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/300168193/government-confirms-covid19-vaccine-will-be-free-in-speech-setting-out-goals-for-next-three-years |archive-date=25 November 2020|url-status=live}} In terms of domestic policies, the Government announced plans to ban non-self contained hiring vehicles to combat "freedom camping," attract "super wealthy" tourists to New Zealand, encourage women to enroll in vocational education and the trades and extend various work and holiday work visa categories.{{cite news |last1=Thornber |first1=Lorna |title=Tourism minister to ban tourists from hiring vans that are not self-contained |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/travel/news/300161375/tourism-minister-to-ban-tourists-from-hiring-vans-that-are-not-selfcontained |access-date=18 November 2020 |work=Stuff |date=18 November 2020|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201118043444/https://www.stuff.co.nz/travel/news/300161375/tourism-minister-to-ban-tourists-from-hiring-vans-that-are-not-selfcontained|archive-date=18 November 2020}}{{cite news |last1=Forrester |first1=Georgie |title=More women picking up the tools, Government says as trades campaign launches |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/industries/123432298/more-women-picking-up-the-tools-government-says-as-trades-campaign-launches |access-date=18 November 2020 |work=Stuff |date=18 November 2020|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201118043945/https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/industries/123432298/more-women-picking-up-the-tools-government-says-as-trades-campaign-launches|archive-date=18 November 2020}}{{cite news |title=Migrant worker visas extended to address labour uncertainties |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/433279/migrant-worker-visas-extended-to-address-labour-uncertainties |access-date=20 December 2020 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=20 December 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201220112325/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/433279/migrant-worker-visas-extended-to-address-labour-uncertainties |archive-date=20 December 2020|url-status=live}} On 2 December, Ardern declared a climate change emergency in New Zealand. She also announced several initiatives to reach the Government's 2025 carbon neutral target including requiring the public sector to buy only electric or hybrid vehicles, introducing new building standards for government buildings and phasing out coal-fired boilers in public service buildings. This motion was supported by the Labour, Green, and Māori parties but was denounced as "virtue signaling" by the opposition National and ACT parties.{{cite news |last1=Taylor |first1=Phil |title=New Zealand declares a climate change emergency |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/dec/02/new-zealand-declares-a-climate-change-emergency |access-date=2 December 2020 |work=The Guardian |date=2 December 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201202030445/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/dec/02/new-zealand-declares-a-climate-change-emergency |archive-date=2 December 2020|url-status=live}}

In terms of foreign policy, Foreign Minister Mahuta joined her Australian, Canadian, British and United States counterparts in condemning the disqualification of pro-democracy Hong Kong legislators as a breach of Hong Kong's autonomy and rights under the Sino-British Joint Declaration.{{cite news |last1=Cheng |first1=Derek |title=New Zealand Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta pushes back on China's Five Eyes warning |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/politics/new-zealand-foreign-minister-nanaia-mahuta-pushes-back-on-chinas-five-eyes-warning/Z4NMF5ESX3X5VFXYIR27BUIYOE/ |access-date=20 November 2020 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=20 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201120073232/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/politics/new-zealand-foreign-minister-nanaia-mahuta-pushes-back-on-chinas-five-eyes-warning/Z4NMF5ESX3X5VFXYIR27BUIYOE/ |archive-date=20 November 2020}} In mid-December, Ardern announced that New Zealand would be establishing travel bubbles with the Cook Islands and Australia in 2021.{{cite news |title=Covid 19 coronavirus: Cook Islands, New Zealand travel bubble without quarantine from early next year |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/covid-19-coronavirus-cook-islands-new-zealand-travel-bubble-without-quarantine-from-early-next-year/5N3ZUPLQHGFLNJEMEV5SL2QTAA/ |access-date=11 December 2020 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=12 December 2020|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201211231224/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/covid-19-coronavirus-cook-islands-new-zealand-travel-bubble-without-quarantine-from-early-next-year/5N3ZUPLQHGFLNJEMEV5SL2QTAA/|archive-date=11 December 2020}}{{cite news |last1=Galloway |first1=Anthony |title=New Zealand travel bubble with Australia coming in early 2021, NZ PM confirms |url=https://www.smh.com.au/world/oceania/new-zealand-travel-bubble-with-australia-coming-in-early-2021-nz-pm-confirms-20201214-p56na6.html |access-date=16 December 2020 |work=The Sydney Morning Herald |date=14 December 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201214014334/https://www.smh.com.au/world/oceania/new-zealand-travel-bubble-with-australia-coming-in-early-2021-nz-pm-confirms-20201214-p56na6.html |archive-date=14 December 2020}} On 17 December, Ardern also announced that the Government had purchased vaccines from the pharmaceutical companies AstraZeneca and Novavax for New Zealand, Tokelau, the Cook Islands, Niue, Samoa, Tonga, and Tuvalu.{{cite news |title=Govt secures another two Covid-19 vaccines, PM says every New Zealander will be able to be vaccinated |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/433029/govt-secures-another-two-covid-19-vaccines-pm-says-every-new-zealander-will-be-able-to-be-vaccinated |access-date=16 December 2020 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=16 December 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201216221630/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/433029/govt-secures-another-two-covid-19-vaccines-pm-says-every-new-zealander-will-be-able-to-be-vaccinated |archive-date=16 December 2020|url-status=live}}

In terms of domestic policies, the Government announced plans to make Matariki a public holiday, resume the country's refugee resettlement programme, reform adoption law, new housing initiatives, ban live cattle exports, a new Clean Car rebate scheme and extensive health sector reforms.{{cite news |last1=Whyte |first1=Anna |title=Jacinda Ardern reveals what date NZ will celebrate its new Matariki public holiday in 2022 |url=https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/jacinda-ardern-reveals-date-nz-celebrate-its-new-matariki-public-holiday-in-2022 |access-date=4 February 2021 |work=1News |date=4 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204025813/https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/jacinda-ardern-reveals-date-nz-celebrate-its-new-matariki-public-holiday-in-2022 |archive-date=4 February 2021|url-status=live}}{{cite news |last1=Walls |first1=Jason |title=Govt restarts its refugee resettlement programme after Covid-19 shutdown |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/govt-restarts-its-refugee-resettlement-programme-after-covid-19-shutdown/YJ5W5WTHNFLF26ES33PRRMB3FA/ |access-date=5 February 2021 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=5 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210205081358/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/govt-restarts-its-refugee-resettlement-programme-after-covid-19-shutdown/YJ5W5WTHNFLF26ES33PRRMB3FA/ |archive-date=5 February 2021|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|date=2021-02-18|title=Outdated adoption law set for change|url=https://www.newsroom.co.nz/page/outdated-adoption-law-set-for-change|access-date=2021-03-11|website=Newsroom|language=en-AU|archive-date=23 April 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240423120438/https://newsroom.co.nz/2021/02/17/outdated-adoption-law-set-for-change/|url-status=live}}{{cite news |title=Government announces ban for live cattle exports by sea |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/440434/government-announces-ban-for-live-cattle-exports-by-sea |access-date=14 April 2021 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=14 April 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210414032419/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/440434/government-announces-ban-for-live-cattle-exports-by-sea |archive-date=14 April 2021|url-status=live}}{{cite news |last1=Walls |first1=Jason |title=Housing crisis: $3.8b housing package unveiled; Speculators to be stung by bright-line test extension |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/housing-crisis-38b-housing-package-unveiled-speculators-to-be-stung-by-bright-line-test-extension/7VPSYR42A6UZO7B2UTGKYC3GVM/ |access-date=23 March 2021 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=23 March 2021|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210323073019/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/housing-crisis-38b-housing-package-unveiled-speculators-to-be-stung-by-bright-line-test-extension/7VPSYR42A6UZO7B2UTGKYC3GVM/|archive-date=23 March 2021}}{{cite news |last1=McClure |first1=Tess |title=New Zealand unveils $8,600 subsidy for electric vehicles to reduce emissions |url=https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/jun/14/new-zealand-unveils-8600-subsidy-for-electric-vehicles-to-reduce-emissions |access-date=14 June 2021 |work=The Guardian |date=14 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210614224431/https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/jun/14/new-zealand-unveils-8600-subsidy-for-electric-vehicles-to-reduce-emissions |archive-date=14 June 2021|url-status=live}}{{cite news |last1=Manch |first1=Thomas |last2=Witton |first2=Bridie |title=Government announces radical plan to centralise healthcare, will abolish DHBs |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/124901118/government-announces-radical-plan-to-centralise-healthcare-will-abolish-dhbs |access-date=16 November 2021 |work=Stuff |date=21 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210420202101/https://i.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/124901118/government-announces-radical-plan-to-centralise-healthcare-will-abolish-dhbs|archive-date=20 April 2021}} In terms of new legislation, the Government also passed legislation entrenching Māori wards and constituencies on local councils, new counter-terrorism legislation and housing intensification legislation.{{cite news |last1=Scotcher |first1=Katie |title=Māori wards amendment bill passes final reading in Parliament |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/437105/maori-wards-amendment-bill-passes-final-reading-in-parliament |access-date=24 February 2021 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=24 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210224112233/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/437105/maori-wards-amendment-bill-passes-final-reading-in-parliament|archive-date=24 February 2021|url-status=live}}{{cite news |last1=Manch |first1=Thomas |title=Parliament passes counter-terrorism laws, criminalising terror planning and expanding warrantless search powers |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/126530458/parliament-passes-counterterrorism-laws-criminalising-terror-planning-and-expanding-warrantless-search-powers |access-date=1 October 2021 |work=Stuff |date=30 September 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210930005143/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/126530458/parliament-passes-counterterrorism-laws-criminalising-terror-planning-and-expanding-warrantless-search-powers |archive-date=30 September 2021|url-status=live}}{{cite news |title=Resource Management Act amendment passes final reading |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/457924/resource-management-act-amendment-passes-final-reading |access-date=15 December 2021 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=14 December 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211214133820/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/457924/resource-management-act-amendment-passes-final-reading |archive-date=14 December 2021|url-status=live}} In February, the Government compensated kiwifruit orchardists and Te Puke–based post harvest operator Seeka for damage caused by an outbreak of Pseudomonas syringae (PSA) in 2010.{{cite news |last1=Morrison |first1=Tina |title=Government pays $40m to settle long-running kiwifruit Psa claim |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/300229318/government-pays-40m-to-settle-longrunning-kiwifruit-psa-claim |access-date=14 February 2021 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=13 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210213002010/https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/300229318/government-pays-40m-to-settle-longrunning-kiwifruit-psa-claim |archive-date=13 February 2021|url-status=live}} In June, Ardern also announced that the Government would apologise for the dawn raids which had disproportionately targeted members of the Pasifika communities during the 1970s and 1980s.{{cite news |last1=Neilson |first1=Michael |title=Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announces apology for dawn raids targeting Pasifika |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/prime-minister-jacinda-ardern-announces-apology-for-dawn-raids-targeting-pasifika/OJPCQRDY3HH4UUQELE5RPSEUHA/ |access-date=14 June 2021 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=14 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210614064654/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/prime-minister-jacinda-ardern-announces-apology-for-dawn-raids-targeting-pasifika/OJPCQRDY3HH4UUQELE5RPSEUHA/|archive-date=14 June 2021|url-status=live}}

Other notable policy announcements and actions included a one-off "2021 Resident Visa" pathway for migrants on work visas, the Government's controversial Three Waters reform programme, a new Ministry for Disabled People, a new Social Security Insurance scheme, new freedom camping legislation and proposed smokefree legislation.{{cite news |last1=Fonseka |first1=Dileepa |title=Nearly 165,000 migrants eligible for fast-tracked residency |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/126535059/nearly-165000-migrants-eligible-for-fasttracked-residency |access-date=1 October 2021 |work=Stuff |date=30 September 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210929223419/https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/126535059/nearly-165000-migrants-eligible-for-fasttracked-residency |archive-date=29 September 2021|url-status=live}}{{cite news |last1=Manch |first1=Thomas |title=Government pushes ahead with Three Waters reform, will take water services from councils |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/126797566/government-pushes-ahead-with-three-waters-reform-will-take-water-services-from-councils |access-date=27 October 2021 |work=Stuff |date=27 October 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211027044310/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/126797566/government-pushes-ahead-with-three-waters-reform-will-take-water-services-from-councils |archive-date=27 October 2021|url-status=live}}{{cite web |last1=Sepuloni |first1=Carmel |last2=Little |first2=Andrew |title=Government delivers transformative changes for disabled people |url=https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/government-delivers-transformative-changes-disabled-people |website=Beehive.govt.nz |publisher=New Zealand Government |access-date=7 November 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211106015901/https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/government-delivers-transformative-changes-disabled-people |archive-date=6 November 2021 |date=29 October 2021 |url-status=live}}{{cite news |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/politics/government-finalises-massive-expansion-of-social-safety-net-funded-by-1-2-per-cent-tax-hike/JDAAHU563GDIYFOEV2KI7WFYLY/ |title=Government finalises massive expansion of social safety net, funded by 1-2 per cent tax hike |first=Thomas |last=Coughlan |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=25 November 2021 |access-date=25 November 2021 |url-access=subscription |archive-date=24 November 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211124204606/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/politics/government-finalises-massive-expansion-of-social-safety-net-funded-by-1-2-per-cent-tax-hike/JDAAHU563GDIYFOEV2KI7WFYLY/ |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last1=Thornber |first1=Lorna |title=New freedom camping rules see ban on vehicles without fixed toilets from using council land |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/travel/news/300466253/new-freedom-camping-rules-see-ban-on-vehicles-without-fixed-toilets-from-using-council-land |access-date=2 December 2021 |work=Stuff |date=30 November 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211130210917/https://www.stuff.co.nz/travel/news/300466253/new-freedom-camping-rules-see-ban-on-vehicles-without-fixed-toilets-from-using-council-land |archive-date=30 November 2021|url-status=live}}{{cite news |last1=Witton |first1=Bridie |title=Government to ban tobacco sales to young people for their lifetime in first-ever 'smokefree generation' |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/127230008/government-to-ban-tobacco-sales-to-young-people-for-their-lifetime-in-firstever-smokefree-generation |access-date=9 December 2021 |work=Stuff |date=9 December 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211209013428/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/127230008/government-to-ban-tobacco-sales-to-young-people-for-their-lifetime-in-firstever-smokefree-generation |archive-date=9 December 2021|url-status=live}} The Government's fruit-picking worker recruitment and Progressive Home Ownership schemes drew criticism for wasteful spending and poor results.{{cite news |last1=Sharpe |first1=Marty |title=Just 54 people have signed up for government's scheme to address fruitpicking labour shortage |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/124194782/just-54-people-have-signed-up-for-governments-scheme-to-address-fruitpicking-labour-shortage?cid=app-iPhone |access-date=11 February 2021 |work=Stuff |date=11 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210210160853/https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/124194782/just-54-people-have-signed-up-for-governments-scheme-to-address-fruitpicking-labour-shortage |archive-date=10 February 2021|url-status=live}}{{cite news |title=Progressive Home Ownership Scheme houses just 12 families in seven months |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/437079/progressive-home-ownership-scheme-houses-just-12-families-in-seven-months |access-date=3 March 2021 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=24 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210225092553/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/437079/progressive-home-ownership-scheme-houses-just-12-families-in-seven-months |archive-date=25 February 2021|url-status=live}} The Government's agricultural, environmental and Clean Car policies also attracted opposition from farming advocacy group Groundswell NZ, which mounted nationwide protests on 16 July.{{cite news |title=Howl of a protest: Thousands of farmers preparing to parade through 47 towns and cities |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/howl-of-a-protest-thousands-of-farmers-preparing-to-parade-through-47-towns-and-cities/JBLXZHGWHHHWL4EWP5TTI6JIOI/ |access-date=15 July 2021 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=15 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210715230641/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/howl-of-a-protest-thousands-of-farmers-preparing-to-parade-through-47-towns-and-cities/JBLXZHGWHHHWL4EWP5TTI6JIOI/|archive-date=15 July 2021|url-status=live}}{{cite news |last1=Ryder |first1=Wyatt |title=Live: 'Fed up' farmers descend on towns and cities |url=https://www.odt.co.nz/rural-life/live-fed-farmers-descend-towns-and-cities |access-date=15 July 2021 |work=Otago Daily Times |date=16 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210715230923/https://www.odt.co.nz/rural-life/live-fed-farmers-descend-towns-and-cities|archive-date=15 July 2021|url-status=live}}

On the foreign policy front, the Government suspended high-level bilateral military and political relations with Myanmar following the 2021 Myanmar coup d'état, participated in international evacuation efforts following the fall of Afghanistan to the Taliban and ratified a free trade agreement with the United Kingdom.{{cite web |last1=Mahuta |first1=Nanaia |title=New Zealand takes measures against Myanmar following military coup |url=https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/new-zealand-takes-measures-against-myanmar-following-military-coup |website=Beehive.govt.nz |publisher=New Zealand Government |access-date=9 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210209102153/https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/new-zealand-takes-measures-against-myanmar-following-military-coup |archive-date=9 February 2021 |date=9 February 2021 |url-status=live}}{{cite news |last1=McClure |first1=Tess |title=New Zealand to deploy troops to aid citizens' evacuation from Afghanistan |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/16/new-zealand-to-deploy-troops-to-aid-citizens-evacuation-from-afghanistan |access-date=16 August 2021 |work=The Guardian |date=16 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210816082911/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/16/new-zealand-to-deploy-troops-to-aid-citizens-evacuation-from-afghanistan|archive-date=16 August 2021|url-status=live}}{{cite news |last1=Manch |first1=Thomas |title=UK-NZ free trade agreement reached, promising zero-tariffs and $970m economic boost |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/126744981/uknz-free-trade-agreement-reached-promising-zerotariffs-and-970m-economic-boost |access-date=21 October 2021 |work=Stuff |date=21 October 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211021001318/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/126744981/uknz-free-trade-agreement-reached-promising-zerotariffs-and-970m-economic-boost |archive-date=21 October 2021|url-status=live}} The Government's decision to suspend the processing of Afghan residency visa applications was criticised by human rights advocates and Afghan migrants.{{cite news |title=Afghanistan falls: NZ closes door on Afghan resettlement applications |url=https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/politics/afghanistan-falls-new-zealand-government-says-its-no-longer-taking-resettlement-applications-from-afghan-nationals/ |access-date=27 August 2021 |work=Newstalk ZB |date=26 August 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210826070419/https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/politics/afghanistan-falls-new-zealand-government-says-its-no-longer-taking-resettlement-applications-from-afghan-nationals/ |archive-date=26 August 2021|url-status=live}}{{cite news |title=Afghan interpreter says New Zealand has left his family to die at Taliban's hands |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/450054/afghan-interpreter-says-new-zealand-has-left-his-family-to-die-at-taliban-s-hands |access-date=27 August 2021 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=26 August 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210826085515/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/450054/afghan-interpreter-says-new-zealand-has-left-his-family-to-die-at-taliban-s-hands |archive-date=26 August 2021|url-status=live}} On 7 October, Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta confirmed that the Government was sending a special representative to the Middle East to help 825 stranded Afghan visa holders to leave Afghanistan. Though the Government had granted 1,253 visas to Afghans, only 428 had arrived in New Zealand by early October 2021.{{cite news |title=New Zealand Afghanistan special representative to support evacuations |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/453076/new-zealand-afghanistan-special-representative-to-support-evacuations |access-date=8 October 2021 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=7 October 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211007091723/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/453076/new-zealand-afghanistan-special-representative-to-support-evacuations |archive-date=7 October 2021|url-status=live}}

In terms of COVID-19 policies, New Zealand government imposed departure tests requirements for most international travellers entering in New Zealand and established a one-way travel bubble for Cook Islanders traveling to New Zealand.{{cite news |title=Covid-19: Pre-departure test extended to all passengers from next week |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/travel/news/123988930/covid19-predeparture-test-extended-to-all-passengers-from-next-week |access-date=19 January 2021 |work=Stuff |date=19 January 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210119095114/https://www.stuff.co.nz/travel/news/123988930/covid19-predeparture-test-extended-to-all-passengers-from-next-week |archive-date=19 January 2021|url-status=live}}{{cite news |title=Welcome to the bubble: Cook Islanders able to enter NZ without quarantine from January 21 |url=https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/welcome-bubble-cook-islanders-able-enter-nz-without-quarantine-january-21 |access-date=15 January 2021 |work=1News |date=15 January 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210115073934/https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/welcome-bubble-cook-islanders-able-enter-nz-without-quarantine-january-21 |archive-date=15 January 2021|url-status=live}} On 3 February 2021, Ardern approved Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for domestic use.{{cite news |last1=de Jong |first1=Eleanor |title=New Zealand gives provisional approval to Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/feb/03/new-zealand-gives-provisional-approval-to-pfizerbiontech-vaccine |access-date=3 February 2021 |work=The Guardian |date=3 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210203085450/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/feb/03/new-zealand-gives-provisional-approval-to-pfizerbiontech-vaccine |archive-date=3 February 2021|url-status=live}} In February 2021, The Government implemented a brief Level 3 lockdown in Auckland following a COVID-19 outbreak in Papatoetoe, South Auckland.{{cite news |last1=Walls |first1=Jason |title=Covid 19 coronavirus: Auckland to level 3 tonight; rest of country at level 2 |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/covid-19-coronavirus-auckland-to-level-3-tonight-rest-of-country-at-level-2/XIHDKTK57ZKASTIEZNOLQZUUGY/ |access-date=14 February 2021 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=14 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210214085659/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/covid-19-coronavirus-auckland-to-level-3-tonight-rest-of-country-at-level-2/XIHDKTK57ZKASTIEZNOLQZUUGY/ |archive-date=14 February 2021|url-status=live}} In mid-May 2021, Health Minister Andrew Little confirmed plans to amend Section 23 of the Medicines Act 1981 after the High Court Judge Rebecca Ellis ruled in favour of the Ngai Kaitiaki Tuku Ihu Medical Action Society's contention that the Government's decision to approve the Pfizer–BioNTech vaccine exceeded the Act's powers.{{cite news |title=Covid 19 coronavirus: Govt makes urgent law change after High Court ruling on legality of vaccine rollout |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/covid-19-coronavirus-govt-makes-urgent-law-change-after-high-court-ruling-on-legality-of-vaccine-rollout/IWB53LM2XNNFMOK44DSGN66JEU/ |access-date=18 May 2021 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=18 May 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210518073415/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/covid-19-coronavirus-govt-makes-urgent-law-change-after-high-court-ruling-on-legality-of-vaccine-rollout/IWB53LM2XNNFMOK44DSGN66JEU/ |archive-date=18 May 2021|url-status=live}}

On 17 August, the Government reinstated Alert Level 4 restrictions nationwide in response to a community outbreak of COVID-19 Delta variant.{{Cite news|date=17 August 2021|title=Covid-19 coronavirus: New Zealand going into lockdown - what you can and can't do under level 4|url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/covid-19-coronavirus-new-zealand-going-into-lockdown-what-you-can-and-cant-do-under-level-4/67ZNV2LOA2HXOGHTJAUES5I77I/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210817073650/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/covid-19-coronavirus-new-zealand-going-into-lockdown-what-you-can-and-cant-do-under-level-4/67ZNV2LOA2HXOGHTJAUES5I77I/|archive-date=17 August 2021|access-date=17 August 2021|work=The New Zealand Herald}} On 23 August, Parliament was suspended for a week with the exception of online select committee hearings. National Party leader Judith Collins and ACT Party leader David Seymour criticised this suspension as undemocratic and an "overreach of power."{{cite news |title=Parliament suspended for a week - PM Ardern |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/449793/parliament-suspended-for-a-week-pm-ardern |access-date=23 August 2021 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=23 August 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210823084226/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/449793/parliament-suspended-for-a-week-pm-ardern |archive-date=23 August 2021|url-status=live}} Following disagreements over holding Parliamentary meetings via Zoom among political parties,{{cite news |last1=Cooke |first1=Henry |title=Covid-19 NZ: National and ACT reject plan for virtual Parliament and Question Time |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/300393369/covid19-nz-national-and-act-reject-plan-for-virtual-parliament-and-question-time |access-date=2 September 2021 |work=Stuff |date=27 August 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210901215151/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/300393369/covid19-nz-national-and-act-reject-plan-for-virtual-parliament-and-question-time |archive-date=1 September 2021}} Speaker Trevor Mallard opted for small gatherings inside the debating chamber.{{cite news |last1=Cooke |first1=Henry |title=Covid-19: How Parliament will run while country is in lockdown |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/300395063/covid19-how-parliament-will-run-while-country-is-in-lockdown |access-date=2 September 2021 |work=Stuff |date=31 August 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210901053604/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/300395063/covid19-how-parliament-will-run-while-country-is-in-lockdown |archive-date=1 September 2021|url-status=live}} In late November, the Government passed controversial vaccine mandate legislation allowing businesses to dismiss employees who refuse to take COVID-19 vaccines and confirmed plans to ease managed isolation and quarantine entry requirements for travellers in 2022.{{cite news |title=Mandate legislation pushed through Parliament amid fierce opposition |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/456455/mandate-legislation-pushed-through-parliament-amid-fierce-opposition |access-date=24 November 2021 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=24 November 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211124104338/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/456455/mandate-legislation-pushed-through-parliament-amid-fierce-opposition |archive-date=24 November 2021|url-status=live}}{{cite news |title=Covid-19: Major MIQ changes from early next year |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/456430/covid-19-major-miq-changes-from-early-next-year |access-date=24 November 2021 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=24 November 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211124102046/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/456430/covid-19-major-miq-changes-from-early-next-year |archive-date=24 November 2021|url-status=live}}

In mid-January 2022, in a terms of COVID-19 policies, New Zealand government asked suppliers Abbott Laboratories, Roche, and Siemens to give it priority in ordering stocks of rapid antigen tests.{{cite news |last1=Smith |first1=Anneke |title=Govt 'commandeered' 100k RAT order - company |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/top/460254/govt-commandeered-100k-rat-order-company |access-date=27 January 2022 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=26 January 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220126121701/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/top/460254/govt-commandeered-100k-rat-order-company |archive-date=26 January 2022|url-status=live}} Amid the surging outbreak of highly transmissible COVID-19 Deltacron hybrid variant across the nationwide, New Zealand government won't imposed new lockdowns, but indoor hospitality venues and events will be capped at 100 people with vaccine passes. However, Opposition to New Zealand government's COVID-19 border restriction and vaccine mandate policies culminated in Wellington protest between February and early March 2022, which ended in the forced removal of protesters.{{Cite news |title=As it happened: Latest on Parliament protest, COVID-19 community outbreak - Thursday, March 3 |language=en |work=Newshub |url=https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/new-zealand/2022/03/covid-19-latest-on-parliament-protest-covid-19-community-outbreak-thursday-march-3.html |date=3 March 2022 |access-date=3 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240411114834/https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/new-zealand/2022/03/covid-19-latest-on-parliament-protest-covid-19-community-outbreak-thursday-march-3.html|archive-date=11 April 2024|url-status=dead}}{{Cite news |title=Jacinda Ardern surveys damage to Parliament grounds as police confirm pepper spray, foam bullets used during clash |language=en |work=Newshub |url=https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2022/03/jacinda-ardern-surveys-damage-to-parliament-grounds-as-police-confirm-pepper-spray-foam-bullets-used-during-clash.html |date=3 March 2022 |access-date=2 March 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240518182922/https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2022/03/jacinda-ardern-surveys-damage-to-parliament-grounds-as-police-confirm-pepper-spray-foam-bullets-used-during-clash.html|archive-date=18 May 2024|url-status=dead}} In mid-May 2022, New Zealand government reopened the country's borders to various work, visitor and student visa holders.{{cite news |last1=Corlett |first1=Eva |title=New Zealand to fully reopen borders for first time since Covid pandemic started |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/may/11/new-zealand-to-fully-reopen-borders-for-first-time-since-covid-pandemic-started |access-date=12 May 2022 |work=The Guardian |date=11 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220511071541/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/may/11/new-zealand-to-fully-reopen-borders-for-first-time-since-covid-pandemic-started |archive-date=11 May 2022|url-status=live}} In mid-September of the same year, New Zealand government scrapped the country's COVID-19 Protection Framework ("traffic light system"); ending face-mask wearing and isolation requirements, and most vaccine mandates.{{cite web |title=COVID-19 (novel coronavirus) |url=https://www.health.govt.nz/covid-19-novel-coronavirus |publisher=Ministry of Health |access-date=12 September 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220912050701/https://www.health.govt.nz/covid-19-novel-coronavirus |archive-date=12 September 2022 |date=12 September 2022 |url-status=live}} On 5 December of the same year, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern stated that the government commissioned a royal commission of inquiry into its COVID-19 pandemic response.{{cite news |title=Jacinda Ardern, Ayesha Verrall announce Royal Commission of Inquiry into COVID-19 response |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/480128/jacinda-ardern-ayesha-verrall-announce-royal-commission-of-inquiry-into-covid-19-response |access-date=5 December 2022 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=5 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221205151857/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/480128/jacinda-ardern-ayesha-verrall-announce-royal-commission-of-inquiry-into-covid-19-response |archive-date=5 December 2022|url-status=live}}

In terms of domestic policies, New Zealand government passed legislation banning a conversion therapy, creating safe zones around the country's abortion providers, reforming the public health services including a new Te Aka Whai Ora (Māori Health Authority), repealed the Sentencing and Parole Reform Act 2010, banning live animal exports, replacing the Office of the Children's Commissioner with the Children and Young People's Commission and Independent Children's Monitor, instituting collective bargaining at an industry-wide level, and introduced smokefree legislation.{{Cite news|date=15 February 2022|title=Politicians react as bill to ban conversion therapy passes|url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/461599/politicians-react-as-bill-to-ban-conversion-therapy-passes|access-date=21 February 2022|work=Radio New Zealand|language=en-nz|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220218050733/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/461599/politicians-react-as-bill-to-ban-conversion-therapy-passes|archive-date=18 February 2022|url-status=live}}{{cite news |last1=O'Dwyer |first1=Ellen |title='Safe areas' abortion law passes with large majority in Parliament |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/128080358/safe-areas-abortion-law-passes-with-large-majority-in-parliament |access-date=21 March 2022 |work=Stuff |date=16 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220316091629/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/128080358/safe-areas-abortion-law-passes-with-large-majority-in-parliament |archive-date=16 March 2022}}{{cite news |title=New Health System Act passes third reading in Parliament |url=https://www.1news.co.nz/2022/06/08/new-health-system-act-passes-third-reading-in-parliament/ |access-date=10 June 2022 |work=1News |publisher=TVNZ |date=8 June 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220607184346/https://www.1news.co.nz/2022/06/08/new-health-system-act-passes-third-reading-in-parliament/ |archive-date=7 June 2022|url-status=live}}{{cite news |last1=Huang |first1=Christina |title=Parliament votes to scrap three strikes law |url=https://www.1news.co.nz/2022/08/09/parliament-votes-to-scrap-three-strikes-law/ |access-date=10 August 2022 |work=1News |publisher=TVNZ |date=9 August 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220810025038/https://www.1news.co.nz/2022/08/09/parliament-votes-to-scrap-three-strikes-law/ |archive-date=10 August 2022}}{{cite news |title=Government passes bill to ban livestock exports by sea |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/475676/government-passes-bill-to-ban-livestock-exports-by-sea |access-date=29 September 2022 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=28 September 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220928070652/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/475676/government-passes-bill-to-ban-livestock-exports-by-sea |archive-date=28 September 2022|url-status=live}}{{cite web |last1=Sepuloni |first1=Carmel |title=Government strengthens oversight for children in state care |url=https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/government-strengthens-oversight-children-state-care |website=Beehive.govt.nz |publisher=New Zealand Government |access-date=25 December 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220903215535/https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/government-strengthens-oversight-children-state-care |archive-date=3 September 2022 |date=24 August 2022 |url-status=live}}{{cite news |last1=Neilson |first1=Michael |title=Fair Pay Agreements to become law after heated, marathon debate |url=https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/politics/fair-pay-agreements-to-become-law-after-heated-marathon-debate-marking-shift-in-employment-relations/ |access-date=26 October 2022 |work=Newstalk ZB |date=26 October 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221026063440/https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/politics/fair-pay-agreements-to-become-law-after-heated-marathon-debate-marking-shift-in-employment-relations/|archive-date=26 October 2022|url-status=live}}{{cite web |title=Smokefree Environments and Regulated Products (Smoked Tobacco) Amendment Bill — Third Reading |url=https://www.parliament.nz/en/pb/hansard-debates/rhr/combined/HansDeb_20221213_20221213_24 |publisher=New Zealand Parliament |access-date=24 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221217001206/https://www.parliament.nz/en/pb/hansard-debates/rhr/combined/HansDeb_20221213_20221213_24 |archive-date=17 December 2022 |date=13 December 2022 |url-status=live}}

The Government also launched a merger of the two public broadcasters Radio New Zealand (RNZ) and Television New Zealand (TVNZ) and its flagship Three Waters reform programme.{{cite news |last1=Venuto |first1=Damien |title=RNZ and TVNZ to be fully merged by mid-2023 |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/rnz-and-tvnz-to-be-fully-merged-by-mid-2023/SA2Y2YMQDE4CIYLHJEVRIVNDC4/ |access-date=18 March 2022 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=13 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220313054607/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/rnz-and-tvnz-to-be-fully-merged-by-mid-2023/SA2Y2YMQDE4CIYLHJEVRIVNDC4/ |archive-date=13 March 2022|url-status=live}}{{cite news |title=First of 'several' three waters bills introduced to Parliament |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/468381/first-of-several-three-waters-bills-introduced-to-parliament |access-date=4 June 2022 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=2 June 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220604114630/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/468381/first-of-several-three-waters-bills-introduced-to-parliament |archive-date=4 June 2022|url-status=live}} Other notable Government initiatives have included launching a New Zealand-centric "Te Takanga o Te Wā" history curriculum, reducing fuel excise taxes, road user charges and public transportation fares, allocating NZ$23 million from the State Sector Decarbonisation Fund to reduce greenhouse emissions, acquiring full ownership of Kiwibank and launching a national public transportation payment system called the National Ticketing Solution.{{cite news |title=Aotearoa New Zealand history curriculum launches |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/463479/aotearoa-new-zealand-history-curriculum-launches |access-date=22 March 2022 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=17 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320234044/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/463479/aotearoa-new-zealand-history-curriculum-launches |archive-date=20 March 2022|url-status=live}}{{cite news |title=Soaring petrol prices, cost-of-living crisis: Jacinda Ardern's Govt slashes fuel taxes from midnight; half-price public transport |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/soaring-petrol-prices-cost-of-living-crisis-jacinda-arderns-govt-slashes-fuel-taxes-from-midnight-half-price-public-transport/K6UFHTBFO55VHOQEDBB3WGDTJE/ |access-date=14 March 2022 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=14 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220314223935/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/soaring-petrol-prices-cost-of-living-crisis-jacinda-arderns-govt-slashes-fuel-taxes-from-midnight-half-price-public-transport/K6UFHTBFO55VHOQEDBB3WGDTJE/ |archive-date=14 March 2022|url-status=live}}{{cite news |title=All coal boilers in NZ schools to be gone by 2025 as $23m in emission reduction projects get green light |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/466571/all-coal-boilers-in-nz-schools-to-be-gone-by-2025-as-23m-in-emission-reduction-projects-get-green-light |access-date=8 May 2022 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=6 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220506032744/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/466571/all-coal-boilers-in-nz-schools-to-be-gone-by-2025-as-23m-in-emission-reduction-projects-get-green-light |archive-date=6 May 2022|url-status=live}}{{cite news |title=Government taking direct control of Kiwibank |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/473251/government-taking-direct-control-of-kiwibank |access-date=1 September 2022 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=22 August 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220824060442/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/473251/government-taking-direct-control-of-kiwibank |archive-date=24 August 2022|url-status=live}}{{cite news |title=National public ticketing payment system for buses, trains, ferries to be introduced |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/national-public-ticketing-payment-system-for-buses-trains-ferries-to-be-introduced/ZYGT3CPGQXUAYHGGBGOXZVCQTE/ |access-date=26 October 2022 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=21 October 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221021084608/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/national-public-ticketing-payment-system-for-buses-trains-ferries-to-be-introduced/ZYGT3CPGQXUAYHGGBGOXZVCQTE/|archive-date=21 October 2022|url-status=live}} The Government abandoned plans to add Goods and Services Tax (GST) to KiwiSaver fees.{{cite news |last1=Edmunds |first1=Susan |title=GST on KiwiSaver fees 'a bad result for KiwiSaver investors' |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/money/300675186/gst-on-kiwisaver-fees-a-bad-result-for-kiwisaver-investors |access-date=12 September 2022 |work=Stuff |date=31 August 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220907082852/https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/money/300675186/gst-on-kiwisaver-fees-a-bad-result-for-kiwisaver-investors |archive-date=7 September 2022|url-status=live}} In November 2022, the Government and the Māori iwi/tribe Ngāti Mutunga o Wharekauri settled Treaty of Waitangi claims relating to the annexation of the Chatham Islands in 1842.{{cite web |last1=Little |first1=Andrew |title=Ngāti Mutunga o Wharekauri and the Crown sign Agreement in Principle |url=https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/ng%C4%81ti-mutunga-o-wharekauri-and-crown-sign-agreement-principle-ka-waitohu-ng%C4%81ti-mutunga-o |website=Beehive.govt.nz |publisher=New Zealand Government |access-date=2 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221126223915/https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/ng%C4%81ti-mutunga-o-wharekauri-and-crown-sign-agreement-principle-ka-waitohu-ng%C4%81ti-mutunga-o |archive-date=26 November 2022 |date=25 November 2022 |url-status=live}}

In March 2022, Prime Minister Ardern announced that New Zealand was facing a "cost of living" crisis.{{cite news |last1=Quinlivan |first1=Mark |title=Jacinda Ardern acknowledges cost of living crisis, will announce 'other options' to relieve impact |url=https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2022/03/jacinda-ardern-accepts-cost-of-living-crisis-to-announce-other-options-to-relieve-impact.html |access-date=14 March 2022 |work=Newshub |date=14 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220314000604/https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2022/03/jacinda-ardern-accepts-cost-of-living-crisis-to-announce-other-options-to-relieve-impact.html |archive-date=14 March 2022|url-status=dead}} On 19 July, the Government extended the 25-cent fuel tax cut and the half price public transportation subsidy until late January 2023 in response to rising living costs.{{cite news |title=Fuel tax cut and half price public transport extended into 2023 |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/471104/fuel-tax-cut-and-half-price-public-transport-extended-into-2023 |access-date=19 July 2022 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=17 July 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220717052153/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/471104/fuel-tax-cut-and-half-price-public-transport-extended-into-2023 |archive-date=17 July 2022|url-status=live}} On 1 August, the Government launched its "cost of living payment" support programme as part of the 2022 New Zealand Budget. The first NZ$116 payment was released on 1 August with the second and third payments on 1 September and 1 October 2022 respectively.{{cite news |title=Cost of living support payments begin today |url=https://www.1news.co.nz/2022/08/01/cost-of-living-support-payments-begin-today/ |access-date=2 August 2022 |work=1News |publisher=TVNZ |date=1 August 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220731224710/https://www.1news.co.nz/2022/08/01/cost-of-living-support-payments-begin-today/ |archive-date=31 July 2022|url-status=live}} The rollout was plagued by reports that overseas-based New Zealanders were receiving payments since the Inland Revenue Department had opted to dispense the payments automatically rather than manually check the eligibility of tax residents.{{cite news |last1=Edwards |first1=Jean |title=Govt defends $350 cost of living payment after overseas Kiwis told they are eligible |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/471959/govt-defends-350-cost-of-living-payment-after-overseas-kiwis-told-they-are-eligible |access-date=2 August 2022 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=1 August 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220801004029/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/471959/govt-defends-350-cost-of-living-payment-after-overseas-kiwis-told-they-are-eligible |archive-date=1 August 2022|url-status=live}}

In response to rising gang activity and ram-raiding, the Government invested NZ$562 million in various anti-crime measures and announced that it would be introducing legislation to strengthen Police powers and combat gangs.{{cite news |last1=Kapitan |first1=Craig |last2=Trevett |first2=Claire |title=Government $562 million police, crime package amid gang, guns, ram raid spree |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/government-562-million-police-crime-package-amid-gang-guns-ram-raid-spree/7BZYOI7CRY3RH5JQYRSG7YBG4Q/ |access-date=8 May 2022 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=8 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220508114047/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/government-562-million-police-crime-package-amid-gang-guns-ram-raid-spree/7BZYOI7CRY3RH5JQYRSG7YBG4Q/ |archive-date=8 May 2022|url-status=live}}{{cite news |title=Bid to crackdown on gangs: Chris Hipkins and Kiri Allan announce new laws |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/bid-to-crackdown-on-gangs-chris-hipkins-and-kiri-allan-announce-new-laws/RQOAFPZNCIJXBIFZBG5SWX5UKQ/ |access-date=15 July 2022 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=13 July 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231008102414/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/bid-to-crackdown-on-gangs-chris-hipkins-and-kiri-allan-announce-new-laws/RQOAFPZNCIJXBIFZBG5SWX5UKQ/|archive-date=8 October 2023|url-status=live}} In response to the murder of Janak Patel, Ardern and Hipkins announced that the Government would be launching a new retail crime package including a fog cannon subsidy scheme, supporting local councils' crime prevention programmes, and expanding the existing Retail Crime Prevention Fund eligibility to include aggravated robberies.{{cite news |title=New retail crime package: What you need to know |url=https://www.1news.co.nz/2022/11/28/new-retail-crime-package-what-you-need-to-know/ |access-date=2 December 2022 |work=1News |publisher=TVNZ |date=28 November 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221128034238/https://www.1news.co.nz/2022/11/28/new-retail-crime-package-what-you-need-to-know/ |archive-date=28 November 2022|url-status=live}}

To address a national skills shortage, the Government launched a fast tracked residence policy in May 2022, which controversially excluded nurses, teachers and dairy farm managers.{{cite news |title=Shock after nurses left off fast tracked residence list |url=https://www.1news.co.nz/2022/05/12/shock-after-nurses-left-off-fast-tracked-residence-list/ |access-date=14 May 2022 |work=1News |date=12 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220514040134/https://www.1news.co.nz/2022/05/12/shock-after-nurses-left-off-fast-tracked-residence-list/ |archive-date=14 May 2022|url-status=live}} In August 2022, it also embarked on a NZ$14.4 million recruitment programme to recruit more doctors, nurses and radiographers in August.{{cite news |title=Health recruitment service aims to combat workforce shortages |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/471993/health-recruitment-service-aims-to-combat-workforce-shortages |access-date=1 August 2022 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=1 August 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220801094254/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/471993/health-recruitment-service-aims-to-combat-workforce-shortages |archive-date=1 August 2022|url-status=live}} In December 2022, the Government also added nurses and midwives to its immigration green list, making them eligible for immediate residency in New Zealand.{{cite news |last1=McConnell |first1=Glenn |title=Government changes immigration rules for nurses, teachers and bus drivers |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/130738527/government-changes-immigration-rules-for-nurses-teachers-and-bus-drivers |access-date=12 December 2022 |work=Stuff |date=12 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221212104254/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/130738527/government-changes-immigration-rules-for-nurses-teachers-and-bus-drivers |archive-date=12 December 2022|url-status=live}}

On the foreign policy front, the Government contributed to disaster relief efforts following the 2022 Hunga Tonga–Hunga Ha'apai eruption and tsunami.{{cite web |last1=Mahuta |first1=Nanaia |title=Aotearoa New Zealand stands ready to assist people of Tonga |url=https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/aotearoa-new-zealand-stands-ready-assist-people-tonga |website=Beehive.govt.nz |publisher=Ministry of Health |access-date=17 January 2022 |date=16 January 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231005125715/https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/aotearoa-new-zealand-stands-ready-assist-people-tonga|archive-date=5 October 2023|url-status=live}} The New Zealand–United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement was formally ratified in early March 2022.{{cite news |title=New Zealand signs free trade deal with UK to eliminate all tariffs for NZ exports |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/462488/new-zealand-signs-free-trade-deal-with-uk-to-eliminate-all-tariffs-for-nz-exports |access-date=3 March 2022 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=1 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220301032043/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/462488/new-zealand-signs-free-trade-deal-with-uk-to-eliminate-all-tariffs-for-nz-exports |archive-date=1 March 2022|url-status=live}} Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the Government expressed support for Ukraine and imposed sanctions on Russia with cross-party support.{{cite web |last1=Ardern |first1=Jacinda |last2=Mahuta |first2=Nanaia |title=NZ allows for significant expansion of sanctions on Russia |url=https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/nz-allows-significant-expansion-sanctions-russia-0 |website=Beehive.govt.nz |publisher=New Zealand Government |access-date=7 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220307031814/https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/nz-allows-significant-expansion-sanctions-russia-0 |archive-date=7 March 2022 |date=7 March 2022 |url-status=live}}{{cite news |title=Parliament unanimously passes Russia Sanctions Bill |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/463022/parliament-unanimously-passes-russia-sanctions-bill |access-date=11 March 2022 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=9 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220309155948/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/463022/parliament-unanimously-passes-russia-sanctions-bill |archive-date=9 March 2022|url-status=live}} The Government also created a special work-visa programme for Ukrainian nationals with relatives in New Zealand and contributed NZ$4 million in humanitarian aid to Ukraine.{{cite news |title=New Zealand announces new measures to support Ukraine |url=https://www.dw.com/en/new-zealand-announces-new-measures-to-support-ukraine/a-61127549 |access-date=16 March 2022 |work=Deutsche Welle |date=15 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220315211017/https://www.dw.com/en/new-zealand-announces-new-measures-to-support-ukraine/a-61127549 |archive-date=15 March 2022|url-status=live}} The Government also contributed military aid and support to NATO and Ukrainian including military trainers and intelligence personnel.{{cite news |title=Government to give further $4.5 million for Ukraine war support |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/469870/government-to-give-further-4-point-5-million-for-ukraine-war-support |access-date=27 June 2022 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=27 June 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220627123016/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/469870/government-to-give-further-4-point-5-million-for-ukraine-war-support |archive-date=27 June 2022|url-status=live}} In addition, New Zealand supported Ukraine's legal defence at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) against Russian allegations of genocide in the Luhansk and Donetsk regions.{{cite news |title=New Zealand to back Ukraine at International Court of Justice |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/470088/new-zealand-to-back-ukraine-at-international-court-of-justice |access-date=6 July 2022 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=30 June 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220705032058/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/470088/new-zealand-to-back-ukraine-at-international-court-of-justice |archive-date=5 July 2022|url-status=live}}

In terms of Australia-New Zealand relations, the Labour Government reached an agreement with the Morrison Government to accept 150 refugees a year from the Nauru Regional Processing Centre and asylum seekers in Australia awaiting processing.{{cite news |last1=Butler |first1=Josh |last2=Hurst |first2=Daniel |title=Australia agrees 450 refugees can be resettled in New Zealand, nine years after deal first offered |url=https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/mar/24/australia-agrees-450-refugees-can-be-resettled-in-new-zealand-nine-years-after-deal-first-offered |access-date=24 March 2022 |work=The Guardian |date=24 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220324104844/https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/mar/24/australia-agrees-450-refugees-can-be-resettled-in-new-zealand-nine-years-after-deal-first-offered |archive-date=24 March 2022|url-status=live}} The NZ and Australian Governments also expressed concerns about a Solomon Islands security agreement with China.{{cite news |title=Pacific tensions: NZ raising concerns with China, Australia 'freaking out' over Solomon Islands |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/politics/pacific-tensions-nz-raising-concerns-with-china-australia-freaking-out-over-solomon-islands/BDIFSGXRC4645L2X2JEBHIGWXU/ |access-date=28 March 2022 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=28 March 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220328113046/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/politics/pacific-tensions-nz-raising-concerns-with-china-australia-freaking-out-over-solomon-islands/BDIFSGXRC4645L2X2JEBHIGWXU/|archive-date=28 March 2022|url-status=live}} In late May 2022, Ardern met with United States President Joe Biden and Governor of California Gavin Newsom to discuss the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), promote gun control and climate change cooperation.{{cite news |title=New Zealand's Ardern urges US to return to regional trade pact |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/economy/2022/5/26/new-zealands-ardern-urges-us-to-return-to-regional-trade-pact |access-date=27 May 2022 |work=Al Jazeera |date=26 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220526070551/https://www.aljazeera.com/economy/2022/5/26/new-zealands-ardern-urges-us-to-return-to-regional-trade-pact |archive-date=26 May 2022|url-status=live}}{{cite news |last1=McClure |first1=Tess |title=New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern responds to Texas school shooting |url=https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/may/25/we-saw-something-that-wasnt-right-and-we-acted-ardern-on-how-new-zealand-delivered-gun-control |access-date=27 May 2022 |work=The Guardian |date=25 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220526142518/https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/may/25/we-saw-something-that-wasnt-right-and-we-acted-ardern-on-how-new-zealand-delivered-gun-control |archive-date=26 May 2022|url-status=live}}{{cite news |title=New Zealand signs partnership with California on climate change |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/468039/new-zealand-signs-partnership-with-california-on-climate-change |access-date=29 May 2022 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=28 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220528052231/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/468039/new-zealand-signs-partnership-with-california-on-climate-change |archive-date=28 May 2022|url-status=live}}

On 19 January, Ardern confirmed her resignation as Prime Minister, Labour Party leader and MP for the Mount Albert electorate prior to the 2023 New Zealand general election, scheduled for 14 October.{{Cite web |last=Malpass |first=Luke |date=19 January 2023 |title=Live: Jacinda Ardern announces she will resign as prime minister by February 7th |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/130990117/live-jacinda-ardern-announces-she-will-resign-as-prime-minister-by-february-7th |access-date=25 January 2023 |work=Stuff |language=en |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230119012101/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/130990117/jacinda-ardern-announces-she-will-resign-as-prime-minister-by-January-25 |archive-date=19 January 2023 |url-status=live}} Following Ardern's resignation, Chris Hipkins was elected as Labour Party leader while Carmel Sepuloni succeeded Grant Robertson as Deputy Prime Minister.{{cite news |last1=Mathias |first1=Shanti |date=21 January 2023 |title=The beginner's guide to Chris Hipkins, our next prime minister |work=The Spinoff |url=https://thespinoff.co.nz/politics/21-01-2023/the-beginners-guide-to-chris-hipkins-our-new-prime-minister |access-date=23 January 2023 |archive-date=20 January 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230120224052/https://thespinoff.co.nz/politics/21-01-2023/the-beginners-guide-to-chris-hipkins-our-new-prime-minister |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last1=Desmarais |first1=Felix |title=The 'girl from Waitara' - Carmel Sepuloni makes history |url=https://www.1news.co.nz/2023/01/22/the-girl-from-waitara-carmel-sepuloni-makes-history/ |access-date=25 January 2023 |work=1News |publisher=TVNZ |date=22 January 2023 |language=en |archive-date=22 January 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230122223520/https://www.1news.co.nz/2023/01/22/the-girl-from-waitara-carmel-sepuloni-makes-history/ |url-status=live }} On 25 January, Hipkins and Sepuloni were formally sworn in as Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister respectively.

As Prime Minister, Hipkins announced that the Labour Government would focus on "cost of living" issues such as rising rent, food prices, the housing shortage and the economic impact of COVID-19.{{Cite news |date=25 January 2023 |title=Chris Hipkins says cost of living is 'absolute priority' as he becomes New Zealand prime minister |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/jan/25/chris-hipkins-sworn-in-as-new-zealand-prime-minister-nz-pm |access-date=31 January 2023 |work=The Guardian |language=en |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230127190947/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/jan/25/chris-hipkins-sworn-in-as-new-zealand-prime-minister-nz-pm|archive-date=27 January 2023|url-status=live}} On 1 February, Hipkins announced that the Government would spend $718 million in various "cost of living" support measures including extending the fuel excise and half-price public transport subsidies until 30 June 2023, and extending discounted bus fares to Community Service card holders and tertiary students permanently from 1 July 2023.{{cite news |title=New PM spreads $718m in 'bread and butter' cost-of-living support |url=https://insidegovernment.co.nz/new-pm-spreads-718m-in-bread-and-butter-cost-of-living-support/ |access-date=3 February 2023 |work=Inside Government NZ |publisher=JSL Media |date=1 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230203235633/https://insidegovernment.co.nz/new-pm-spreads-718m-in-bread-and-butter-cost-of-living-support/|archive-date=3 February 2023|url-status=live}} Between February and March 2023, the Government scrapped several policies and programmes including the proposed TVNZ–Radio New Zealand merger and plans to introduce hate speech legislation and lower the voting age to 16 years.{{cite news |title=Watch: TVNZ/RNZ merger scrapped, income insurance and hate speech laws delayed |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/483875/watch-tvnz-rnz-merger-scrapped-income-insurance-and-hate-speech-laws-delayed |access-date=8 February 2023 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=8 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230208041638/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/483875/watch-tvnz-rnz-merger-scrapped-income-insurance-and-hate-speech-laws-delayed |archive-date=8 February 2023|url-status=live}}{{cite news |title=PM's policy bonfire: Voting age bill, transport schemes 'reprioritsed' |url=https://www.1news.co.nz/2023/03/13/pms-policy-bonfire-voting-age-bill-transport-schemes-reprioritsed/ |access-date=14 March 2023 |work=1News |publisher=TVNZ |date=13 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230313035738/https://www.1news.co.nz/2023/03/13/pms-policy-bonfire-voting-age-bill-transport-schemes-reprioritsed/ |archive-date=13 March 2023|url-status=live}} Hipkins also confirmed that the minimum wage would be raised from NZ$21.20 to NZ$22.70 an hour from 1 April 2023 . In addition, the Government invested NZ$2 billion to provide "bread and butter" support to 1.4 million New Zealanders affected by the ongoing "cost of living" crisis.

In terms of disaster management, the Government responded to flood damage in the North Island caused by Cyclone Hale, the 2023 Auckland Anniversary Weekend floods and Cyclone Gabrielle by providing disaster and financial relief to affected communities.{{cite web |last1=O'Connor |title=Government support for flood-affected Gisborne Tairāwhiti farmers and growers |url=https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/government-support-flood-affected-gisborne-tair%C4%81whiti-farmers-and-growers |website=Beehive.govt.nz |publisher=New Zealand Government |access-date=14 January 2023 |date=13 January 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230114024724/https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/government-support-flood-affected-gisborne-tair%C4%81whiti-farmers-and-growers|archive-date=14 January 2023|url-status=live}}{{cite news |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/politics/auckland-northland-flooding-cabinet-re-shuffle-announced-pm-hipkins-to-address-state-of-emergency/TJOIAGWMO5A7BPTONEPN454HHE/ |title=Cabinet reshuffle: Prime Minister Chris Hipkins unveils new line-up; Government response to Auckland flooding |first=Michael |last=Neilson |date=31 January 2023 |work=The New Zealand Herald |access-date=31 January 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230131114432/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/politics/auckland-northland-flooding-cabinet-re-shuffle-announced-pm-hipkins-to-address-state-of-emergency/TJOIAGWMO5A7BPTONEPN454HHE/|archive-date=31 January 2023|url-status=live}}{{cite web |last1=McAnulty |first1=Kieran |title=State of National Emergency Declared |url=https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/state-national-emergency-declared |website=Beehive.govt.nz |publisher=New Zealand Government |access-date=14 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230214025516/https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/state-national-emergency-declared |archive-date=14 February 2023 |date=14 February 2023 |url-status=live}} On 8 February, the Government invest NZ$3 million in discretionary flood recovery payments, NZ$1 million in supporting flood-affected businesses, and NZ$1 million in mental health support. On 23 February, the Government launched a ministerial inquiry into forestry companies' slash practices, which had exacerbated flood damage caused by Cyclone Gabrielle.{{cite news |last1=McConnell |first1=Glenn |title=Government orders inquiry into forestry slash after Cyclone Gabrielle |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/131315345/government-orders-inquiry-into-forestry-slash-after-cyclone-gabrielle |access-date=25 February 2023 |work=Stuff |date=23 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230225005627/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/131315345/government-orders-inquiry-into-forestry-slash-after-cyclone-gabrielle|archive-date=25 February 2023|url-status=live}} On 14 May, the Government allocated NZ$941 million from the 2023 New Zealand budget to addressing flood and cyclone damage caused by the Auckland Anniversary Weekend floods and Cyclone Gabrielle.{{cite news |title=Flood, cyclone recovery: Govt to spend $1b on education, transport projects, mental health |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/489866/flood-cyclone-recovery-govt-to-spend-1b-on-education-transport-projects-mental-health |access-date=17 May 2023 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=14 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230514090610/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/489866/flood-cyclone-recovery-govt-to-spend-1b-on-education-transport-projects-mental-health |archive-date=14 May 2023|url-status=live}} On 3 August, the Hawke's Bay Regional Council, Napier City Council, Hastings District Council, Wairoa District Council and Central Hawke's Bay District voted to accept the Government's NZ$556 million recovery cost-sharing package, which will be split evenly between the Government and local councils. .{{cite news |last1=Hamilton-Irvine |first1=Gary |title=Cyclone Gabrielle: Buyout details agreed for Category 3 homes in Hawke's Bay |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/hawkes-bay-today/news/cyclone-gabrielle-buyout-details-agreed-for-category-3-homes-in-hawkes-bay/3WV5TVISKRE3VIEPBGNMROM4VM/ |access-date=5 August 2023 |work=Hawkes Bay Today |publisher=NZME |date=3 August 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230805040637/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/hawkes-bay-today/news/cyclone-gabrielle-buyout-details-agreed-for-category-3-homes-in-hawkes-bay/3WV5TVISKRE3VIEPBGNMROM4VM/|archive-date=5 August 2023|url-status=live}}

In terms of foreign policy, Hipkins undertook his first overseas state visit to Canberra where he met Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to reaffirm Australian-New Zealand bilateral relations. During the visit, Albanese agreed to amend Australia's deportation policy to reduce the deportation rate to New Zealand.{{cite news |last1=Hemi |first1=Tema |title=Hipkins, Albanese discuss 501s in first meeting in Canberra |url=https://www.teaomaori.news/hipkins-albanese-discuss-501s-first-meeting-canberra |access-date=8 February 2023 |work=Te Ao Māori News |publisher=Māori Television |date=7 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230208081410/https://www.teaomaori.news/hipkins-albanese-discuss-501s-first-meeting-canberra |archive-date=8 February 2023}}{{cite news |last1=hevesi |first1=Bryant |title=Anthony Albanese meets with Chris Hipkins in Canberra: Australia, New Zealand PMs discuss citizenship issues and deportations |url=https://www.skynews.com.au/australia-news/politics/anthony-albanese-meets-with-chris-hipkins-in-canberra-australia-new-zealand-pms-discuss-citizenship-issues-and-deportations/news-story/ad356657ed9674b4c65d034581bdbd52 |access-date=8 February 2023 |work=Sky News Australia |date=7 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230207141533/https://www.skynews.com.au/australia-news/politics/anthony-albanese-meets-with-chris-hipkins-in-canberra-australia-new-zealand-pms-discuss-citizenship-issues-and-deportations/news-story/ad356657ed9674b4c65d034581bdbd52 |archive-date=7 February 2023}} Following the 2023 Turkey–Syria earthquake, the Government also contributed NZ$1.5 million to disaster relief efforts in those countries.{{cite news |last1=Pearse |first1=Adam |title=Turkey earthquake: NZ commits $1.5m in humanitarian support as death toll climbs |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/politics/turkey-earthquake-nz-commits-15m-in-humanitarian-support-as-death-toll-climbs/53IOEYXH5VE2NB25I62ODRVLEY/ |access-date=8 February 2023 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=7 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230207171021/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/politics/turkey-earthquake-nz-commits-15m-in-humanitarian-support-as-death-toll-climbs/53IOEYXH5VE2NB25I62ODRVLEY/ |archive-date=7 February 2023|url-status=live}} Following the outbreak of the Gaza war on 7 October, the Government contributed NZ$10 million to the International Committee of the Red Cross's (ICRC) and the United Nations' World Food Programme's humanitarian relief efforts.{{cite news |title=NZ sending more humanitarian support for Gaza, West Bank and Israel |url=https://www.1news.co.nz/2023/11/18/nz-sending-more-humanitarian-support-for-gaza-west-bank-israel/ |access-date=20 November 2023 |work=1News |publisher=TVNZ |date=18 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231118100312/https://www.1news.co.nz/2023/11/18/nz-sending-more-humanitarian-support-for-gaza-west-bank-israel/ |archive-date=18 November 2023}} In late October, the Government support UN calls for a "humanitarian pause" in Gaza and voted in favour of United Nations General Assembly Resolution ES-10/21.{{cite news |last1=Patterson |first1=Jane |title=New Zealand calls for humanitarian pause in Gaza, during session of UN Security Council |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/500954/new-zealand-calls-for-humanitarian-pause-in-gaza-during-session-of-un-security-council |access-date=25 October 2023 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=25 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231024234210/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/500954/new-zealand-calls-for-humanitarian-pause-in-gaza-during-session-of-un-security-council |archive-date=24 October 2023}}{{cite news |title=Israel-Gaza conflict: All the latest developments on 28 October |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/world/501167/israel-gaza-conflict-all-the-latest-developments-on-28-october |access-date=30 October 2023 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=28 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231028113458/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/world/501167/israel-gaza-conflict-all-the-latest-developments-on-28-october |archive-date=28 October 2023|url-status=live}}

In terms of education, Hipkins and Education Minister Jan Tinetti announced plans to reduce class sizes and increase the numbers of teachers in mid-April 2023.{{cite news |last1=McConnell |first1=Glenn |title=Class sizes to decrease by one for years 4 to 8, requiring an extra 320 teachers |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/education/131786828/class-sizes-to-decrease-by-one-for-years-4-to-8-requiring-an-extra-320-teachers |access-date=21 April 2023 |work=Stuff |date=17 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230419174800/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/education/131786828/class-sizes-to-decrease-by-one-for-years-4-to-8-requiring-an-extra-320-teachers |archive-date=19 April 2023|url-status=live}} On 27 June, the Government invested NZ$128 million in increasing tuition subsidies between 2024 and 2025 for all tertiary institutions including universities, wānanga and the mega polytechnic Te Pūkenga.{{cite news |title=Government announces extra $128m for cash-strapped universities, tertiary institutions |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/492705/government-announces-extra-128m-for-cash-strapped-universities-tertiary-institutions |access-date=28 June 2023 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=27 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230627025534/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/492705/government-announces-extra-128m-for-cash-strapped-universities-tertiary-institutions |archive-date=27 June 2023}}

In terms of environmental policies, the Government signed an agreement with US investment company BlackRock on 8 August to set up a NZ$2 billion investment fund to help reach the Government's target of 100 percent renewable energy by 2030.{{cite web |last1=Hipkins |first1=Chris |last2=Woods |first2=Megan |title=First of its kind climate fund to back 100% renewable energy |url=https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/first-its-kind-climate-fund-back-100-renewable-electricity |website=Beehive.govt.nz |publisher=New Zealand Government |access-date=14 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231010090823/https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/first-its-kind-climate-fund-back-100-renewable-electricity |archive-date=10 October 2023 |date=8 August 2023 |url-status=live}} On 6 October, Minister of Conservation Willow-Jean Prime and Minister of Oceans and Fisheries Rachel Brooking announced that the Government would create six new marine reserves between Timaru and the Catlins in the lower South Island.{{cite news |title=Government announces six new South Island marine reserves |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/election-2023/499457/government-announces-six-new-south-island-marine-reserves |access-date=6 October 2023 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=5 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231005042306/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/election-2023/499457/government-announces-six-new-south-island-marine-reserves |archive-date=5 October 2023|url-status=live}}

In terms of health, Health Minister Ayesha Verrall launched the 2023 Winter Health Plan to boost the capability of health services, vaccination campaigns, and recruit more health professionals.{{cite news |title=Health NZ Te Whatu Ora unveils winter preparedness plan |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/489245/health-nz-te-whatu-ora-unveils-winter-preparedness-plan |access-date=17 May 2023 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=4 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230513225637/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/489245/health-nz-te-whatu-ora-unveils-winter-preparedness-plan |archive-date=13 May 2023|url-status=live}} In early June, the Government announced plans to combat vaping among youths by banning the sale of disposable and reusable vapes in stages and restricting the locations of new vape stores.{{cite news |last1=McClure |first1=Tess |title=New Zealand to introduce new rules to crack down on youth vaping |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/jun/06/new-zealand-to-introduce-new-rules-to-crack-down-on-youth-vaping |access-date=8 June 2023 |work=The Guardian |date=6 June 2023}}

In terms of water infrastructure, the Government overhauled its Three Waters reform programme in mid-April 2023, renaming it the Water Services Reform Programme. The proposed four water services entities were expanded into ten entities but will retain the same split co-governance structure consisting of representatives of local councils and mana whenua representatives.{{cite web |title=Major shakeup will see affordable water reforms led and delivered locally |url=https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/major-shakeup-will-see-affordable-water-reforms-led-and-delivered-regionally |website=Beehive.govt.nz |publisher=New Zealand Government |access-date=19 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230413021725/https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/major-shakeup-will-see-affordable-water-reforms-led-and-delivered-regionally |archive-date=13 April 2023 |date=13 April 2023 |url-status=live}} These changes passed into law on 16 August.{{cite news |title=Three waters amendment bill passes third reading |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/495896/three-waters-amendment-bill-passes-third-reading |access-date=18 August 2023 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=16 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230815231754/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/495896/three-waters-amendment-bill-passes-third-reading |archive-date=15 August 2023|url-status=live}} On 23 August, the Government passed two further bills entrenching its Three Waters reforms. the Water Services Reform Programme. The Water Services Economic Efficiency and Consumer Protection Act 2023 established an economic regulation regime overseen by the Commerce Commission while the Water Services Legislation Act 2023 outlined the duties, functions and powers of the ten new water services entities, effective 2026. National and ACT have opposed the Three Waters programme and vowed to repeal them if elected into government following the 2023 New Zealand general election.{{cite news |title=Final Three Waters bills pass through Parliament |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/496458/final-three-waters-bills-pass-through-parliament |access-date=6 September 2023 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=23 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230830142331/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/496458/final-three-waters-bills-pass-through-parliament |archive-date=30 August 2023}}

In terms of other infrastructure, the Government signed a cooperation agreement with Amazon Web Services in March 2023 to build large data centres to provide cloud storage services for government departments, local councils, schools, tertiary education providers, and other public service bodies.{{cite news |title=Amazon group's web services signs cooperation agreement with New Zealand |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/486571/amazon-group-s-web-services-signs-cooperation-deal-with-new-zealand-government |access-date=8 April 2023 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=23 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230325224954/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/486571/amazon-group-s-web-services-signs-cooperation-deal-with-new-zealand-government |archive-date=25 March 2023|url-status=live}} On 17 August, the Government unveiled a NZ$20 billion transport plan to build 14 new key roads and public transport over ten years.{{cite news |last1=Palmer |first1=Russell |title=Government releases 10-year transport plan for consultation |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/495988/government-releases-10-year-transport-plan-for-consultation |access-date=18 August 2023 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=17 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230818043637/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/495988/government-releases-10-year-transport-plan-for-consultation |archive-date=18 August 2023|url-status=live}}

In terms of justice, Hipkins announced the Government's youth justice policy which included introducing a new measure to punish adults convicted of influencing young people to commit crimes and making the publishing of recordings of criminal behaviour on social media an aggravating factor in sentencing. These legislative changes will not be implemented prior to the 2023 general election.{{cite news |last1=Pearse |first1=Adam |title=PM Chris Hipkins reveals new Govt youth crime policy as Kiri Allan returns |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/politics/pm-chris-hipkins-to-reveal-new-govt-youth-crime-policy-as-kiri-allan-returns/YXGSQ2E4FVDT7AHZK5VLA5GWC4/ |access-date=22 July 2023 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=17 July 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230722024250/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/politics/pm-chris-hipkins-to-reveal-new-govt-youth-crime-policy-as-kiri-allan-returns/YXGSQ2E4FVDT7AHZK5VLA5GWC4/|archive-date=22 July 2023|url-status=live}} That same day, Labour campaigned on introducing several new youth crime policies including building two "high-needs units" within youth justice residences in Auckland and Christchurch, improving safety and security at existing youth justice residences, focusing on crime prevention measures including family group conferences, and empowering Family Courts to require youth offenders to perform community services. On 10 July, Hipkins announced that the Government would introduce legislation to make ram-raiding a criminal offence with a ten-year sentence and allowing 12 and 13-year old ram raiders to be tried in Youth Courts.{{cite news |title=New ram-raid offence to hold 10-year maximum sentence - Hipkins |url=https://www.1news.co.nz/2023/07/19/new-ram-raid-offence-to-hold-10-year-maximum-sentence-hipkins/ |access-date=22 July 2023 |work=1News |publisher=TVNZ |date=19 July 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230722030212/https://www.1news.co.nz/2023/07/19/new-ram-raid-offence-to-hold-10-year-maximum-sentence-hipkins/|archive-date=22 July 2023|url-status=live}} On 29 August, the Government's Ram Raid Offending and Related Measures Amendment Bill passed its first reading with support from the opposition National and ACT parties.{{cite news |title=Bill targeting ram raid offending passes first reading |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/496851/bill-targeting-ram-raid-offending-passes-first-reading |access-date=5 September 2023 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=29 August 2023}}

In terms of resource management, the Government passed the Natural and Built Environment Act 2023 and the Spatial Planning Act 2023, the first two laws in its planned overhaul of the Resource Management Act 1991, on 16 August.{{cite news |title=RMA replacement bills pass third readings in Parliament |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/495939/rma-replacement-bills-pass-third-readings-in-parliament |access-date=7 February 2024 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=16 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231227011740/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/495939/rma-replacement-bills-pass-third-readings-in-parliament |archive-date=27 December 2023}} On 18 August, Agricultural Minister Damien O'Connor announced a NZ$370 million plan to help farmers reduce carbon emissions over a five-ear period.{{cite news |title=Government announces $370m plan to help farmers reduce emissions |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/496070/government-announces-370m-plan-to-help-farmers-reduce-emissions |access-date=18 August 2023 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=18 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230818044605/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/496070/government-announces-370m-plan-to-help-farmers-reduce-emissions |archive-date=18 August 2023|url-status=live}}

In the 2023 New Zealand general election held on 14 October, the Labour Party lost its place as the largest party in parliament to the National Party.{{Cite news |last=McConnell |first=Glenn |date=15 October 2023 |title=Who's coming and going in Parliament after seismic election result |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/133123170/whos-coming-and-going-in-parliament-after-seismic-election-result |access-date=15 October 2023 |work=Stuff |language=en|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231020212614/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/133123170/whos-coming-and-going-in-parliament-after-seismic-election-result|archive-date=20 October 2023|url-status=live}} In final results, Labour gained 26.91% of the popular vote and its share of parliamentary seats dropped from 64 to 34.{{cite web |title=Official count - Overall Results |url=https://electionresults.govt.nz/electionresults_2023/ |publisher=Electoral Commission |access-date=20 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231107112928/https://www.electionresults.govt.nz/electionresults_2023/ |archive-date=7 November 2023 |date=3 November 2023 |url-status=live}} Hipkins conceded the election to National Party leader Christopher Luxon.{{cite news |last1=Perry |first1=Nick |title=New Zealand elects conservative Christopher Luxon as premier after 6 years of liberal rule |url=https://apnews.com/article/new-zealand-election-luxon-hipkins-ardern-9309fc1816569adac27efe0e7ec77c25 |access-date=20 October 2023 |work=Associated Press News |date=15 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231015150908/https://apnews.com/article/new-zealand-election-luxon-hipkins-ardern-9309fc1816569adac27efe0e7ec77c25 |archive-date=15 October 2023}} The Labour Government remained in a caretaker capacity until the release of final results on 3 November 2023.{{cite news |title=Government in caretaker mode as coalition talks start |url=https://waateanews.com/2023/10/17/government-in-caretaker-mode-as-coalition-talks-start/ |access-date=25 October 2023 |work=Waatea News |date=17 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231020141149/https://waateanews.com/2023/10/17/government-in-caretaker-mode-as-coalition-talks-start/ |archive-date=20 October 2023|url-status=live}} On 10 November, Hipkins and Luxon advised Governor-General Cindy Kiro to prolong the caretaker government arrangement until the conclusion of coalition talks for the incoming National-led government. Following Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta's resignation, Grant Robertson assumed her foreign affairs portfolio while Willie Jackson assumed her associate Māori development portfolio.{{cite news |last1=Wikaere-Lewis |first1=Mana |title=Chris Hipkins to be sworn in again as PM until coalition talks finalise |url=https://www.teaonews.co.nz/2023/11/10/chris-hipkins-to-be-sworn-in-again-as-pm-until-coalition-talks-finalise/ |access-date=10 November 2023 |work=Te Ao Māori News |publisher=Māori Television |date=10 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231110101303/https://www.teaonews.co.nz/2023/11/10/chris-hipkins-to-be-sworn-in-again-as-pm-until-coalition-talks-finalise/ |archive-date=10 November 2023}} That month, Deputy Prime Minister Sepuloni and Trade Minister Damien O'Connor represented New Zealand at the 2023 Pacific Islands Forum and 2023 APEC summit.{{cite news |last1=Terite |first1=William |title=Pacific Islands Forum: Carmel Sepuloni, Gerry Brownlee arrive in Rarotonga |url=https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2023/11/pacific-islands-forum-carmel-sepuloni-gerry-brownlee-arrive-in-rarotonga.html |access-date=10 November 2023 |work=Newshub |date=8 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231109180851/https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2023/11/pacific-islands-forum-carmel-sepuloni-gerry-brownlee-arrive-in-rarotonga.html |archive-date=9 November 2023}}{{cite news |last1=Craymer |first1=LUY |title=New Zealand prime minister-elect will not attend APEC, government says |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/new-zealand-prime-minister-elect-will-not-attend-apec-government-says-2023-11-14/ |access-date=20 November 2023 |work=Reuters |date=14 November 2023}} Following the conclusion of coalition negotiations between National, ACT and New Zealand First on 24 November,{{cite news |last1=Quinlivan |first1=Mark |title=Election 2023: National, ACT and NZ First's Coalition agreement |url=https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2023/11/election-2023-national-act-and-nz-first-s-coalition-agreement.html |access-date=27 November 2023 |work=Newshub |date=24 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231124040207/https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2023/11/election-2023-national-act-and-nz-first-s-coalition-agreement.html |archive-date=24 November 2023}} the new National-led coalition government was sworn into office on 27 November.

The following table shows the total party votes and seats in Parliament won by Labour, plus any parties supporting a Labour-led government in coalition or with confidence and supply.

{{further|2018 New Zealand budget}}

• Established a $1 billion Regional Development Fund{{cite news|title=NZ First, Green Party, Labour coalition deals revealed|url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/98170259/nz-prime-minister-elect-jacinda-ardern-reveals-cost-of-coalition|access-date=4 November 2017|publisher=Stuff|date=24 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230930204829/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/98170259/nz-prime-minister-elect-jacinda-ardern-reveals-cost-of-coalition|archive-date=30 September 2023|url-status=live}}
• Introduced a wage subsidy scheme for all workers unable to attend work during the nationwide lockdown resulting from COVID-19. This was later extended until October 2020.{{cite news|url=https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/nearly-9-billion-in-wage-subsidies-paid-1-4-million-workers-across-new-zealand |title=Nearly $9 billion in wage subsidies paid to 1.4 million workers across New Zealand |last=Whyte |first=Anna |date=14 April 2020 |work=1News |access-date=10 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231005130207/https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/nearly-9-billion-in-wage-subsidies-paid-1-4-million-workers-across-new-zealand|archive-date=5 October 2023|url-status=live}}
• Interest-free loans were introduced for businesses as part of a package of economic policies in response to COVID-19{{cite news |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/prosper/300010556/government-loan-scheme-now-open-to-small-businesses |title=Government loan scheme now open to small businesses |last=George |first=Zoë |date=12 May 2020 |website=Stuff |access-date=14 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231005125400/https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/prosper/300010556/government-loan-scheme-now-open-to-small-businesses|archive-date=5 October 2023|url-status=live}}

• Abolished 90 day trials for larger firms{{cite news |last1=Smith-Frank |first1=Brittany |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12178467 |title=Let's Talk Law: No more 90-day trial for big firms |date=18 December 2018 |work=The New Zealand Herald |access-date=31 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231008093947/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12178467|archive-date=8 October 2023|url-status=live}}
• Made the first year of tertiary education or training free from 1 January 2018{{cite news|last1=Jones|first1=Nicholas|title=Jacinda Ardern confirms new government will dump tax cuts|url=http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11935318|access-date=1 November 2017|work=The New Zealand Herald|date=20 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171020100356/http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11935318|archive-date=20 October 2017|url-status=live}}{{cite news|title=What we can expect under New Zealand's new PM|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-10-21/jacinda-ardern-what-can-expect-from-new-zealand-new-government/9073120|access-date=1 November 2017|publisher=ABC News|date=21 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231101160833/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-10-21/jacinda-ardern-what-can-expect-from-new-zealand-new-government/9073120|archive-date=1 November 2023|url-status=live}}
• Increased student allowances and living costs loans by $50 a week effective 1 January 2018
• Scrapped both National Standards for literacy and numeracy and primary school league tables{{cite news|last1=Collins|first1=Simon|title=Labour's education plans revealed: Primary school league tables axed, big NCEA shakeup|url=http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11937975|access-date=1 November 2017|work=The New Zealand Herald|date=30 October 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171029182359/http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11937975|archive-date=29 October 2017|url-status=live}}
• Free driver training for all secondary school students
• Decile 1-7 schools were offered extra funding if boards chose to scrap voluntary donations{{cite news|last=Kenny |first=Lee |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/education/116308519/only-1-in-4-eligible-schools-have-signed-on-to-scrap-donations-so-far |title=Only 1 in 4 eligible schools have signed on to scrap donations so far |date=October 9, 2019 |website=Stuff |access-date=16 May 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231005125752/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/education/116308519/only-1-in-4-eligible-schools-have-signed-on-to-scrap-donations-so-far|archive-date=5 October 2023|url-status=live}}
• Raised the minimum wage to $16.50 an hour in 2018, $18.90 in 2020, and $20.00 in 2021, representing and overall increase of around 6% per year{{cite web |url=https://www.employment.govt.nz/hours-and-wages/pay/minimum-wage/minimum-wage-rates/ |title=Current minimum wage rates |date=1 July 2021 |publisher=Employment New Zealand |access-date=28 September 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211016050413/https://www.employment.govt.nz/hours-and-wages/pay/minimum-wage/minimum-wage-rates/|archive-date=16 October 2021|url-status=live}}
• Abolished NCEA fees{{cite news |last=Woolf |first=Amber-Leigh |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/education/112667928/annual-ncea-fee-of-7670--scrapped-for-stronger-education-system |title=Annual NCEA fee of $76.70 scrapped for 'stronger' education system |date=13 May 2019 |work=Stuff |access-date=9 December 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231005130029/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/education/112667928/annual-ncea-fee-of-7670--scrapped-for-stronger-education-system|archive-date=5 October 2023|url-status=live }}
• Established the Pike River Recovery Agency with an accompanying ministerial portofolio plus a commitment by minister Andrew Little to re-enter Pike River Mine
• New Mana in Mahi program introduced to encourage employers, through wage subsidies, to take on young beneficiaries{{cite news |last=Bracewell-Worral|first=Anna |date=9 August 2018 |title='Mana in Mahi': Government to pay dole to employers taking on unemployed youth |url=https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2018/08/mana-in-mahi-government-announces-work-for-the-dole-scheme.html |work=Newshub |access-date=12 August 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240411053529/https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2018/08/mana-in-mahi-government-announces-work-for-the-dole-scheme.html|archive-date=11 April 2024|url-status=dead}}
• Signed a pay equity deal with education support workers to increase pay by 30%{{cite news |date=14 August 2018 |title= Education support workers land historic pay equity settlement |url=https://www.radionz.co.nz/news/national/364074/education-support-workers-land-historic-pay-equity-settlement |work=Radio New Zealand |access-date=14 August 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231005130027/https://www.radionz.co.nz/news/national/364074/education-support-workers-land-historic-pay-equity-settlement|archive-date=5 October 2023|url-status=live}}
• Pay for early childhood education workers was boosted in 2020, with the government increasing education and care services' subsidy rates{{cite news |last=Small |first=Zane |url=https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2020/05/budget-2020-early-learning-services-get-320m-boost-including-pay-increase-for-teachers.html |title=Budget 2020: Early learning services get $320m boost including pay increase for teachers |date=11 May 2020 |work=Newshub |access-date=11 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240411054031/https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2020/05/budget-2020-early-learning-services-get-320m-boost-including-pay-increase-for-teachers.html|archive-date=11 April 2024|url-status=dead}}
• Apprenticeship fees were scrapped from 1 July 2020 as a response to the economic downturn resulting from COVID-19
• Paid sick leave was doubled from five days to ten per year{{cite news|url=https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2021/05/bill-to-increase-sick-leave-from-five-days-to-10-days-passes.html|title=Bill to increase sick leave from five days to 10 days passes|work=Newshub |date=20 May 2021|access-date=20 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240411051554/https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2021/05/bill-to-increase-sick-leave-from-five-days-to-10-days-passes.html|archive-date=11 April 2024|url-status=dead}}

• Established a Zero-Carbon Act with the goal of net zero emissions of carbon dioxide by 2050 and a 24-47% reduction in methane emissions relative to 2017{{Cite web |last=McLachlan |first=Robert |date=8 May 2019|title=NZ introduces groundbreaking zero carbon bill, including targets for agricultural methane |url=http://theconversation.com/nz-introduces-groundbreaking-zero-carbon-bill-including-targets-for-agricultural-methane-116724 |access-date=2 December 2023|website=The Conversation |language=en-US |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231202041756/http://theconversation.com/nz-introduces-groundbreaking-zero-carbon-bill-including-targets-for-agricultural-methane-116724|archive-date=2 December 2023|url-status=live}}
• Established an independent Climate Change Commission{{cite web |title=Interim Climate Change Committee announced |url=https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/interim-climate-change-committee-announced |website=Beehive.govt.nz |publisher=New Zealand Government |access-date=27 August 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231005125402/https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/interim-climate-change-committee-announced|archive-date=5 October 2023|url-status=live}}
• Set a target of planting one billion trees over the next ten years{{cite news|last1=Tipa|first1=Rob|title=Foresters welcome Government's ambitious tree-planting target|url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/farming/agribusiness/98429520/foresters-welcome-governments-ambitious-treeplanting-target|access-date=1 November 2017|publisher=Stuff|date=1 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231005125805/https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/farming/agribusiness/98429520/foresters-welcome-governments-ambitious-treeplanting-target|archive-date=5 October 2023|url-status=live}}
• Re-established the New Zealand Forest Service
• Ceased tendering any new off-shore oil and gas exploration permits
• Phased out single-use plastic bags and other single-use plastic items including plastic produce bags, polystyrene takeaway containers and plastic plates, bowls and cutlery{{cite news |last1= Woolf |first1=Amber-Leigh |title=New Zealand to ban single use plastic bags |url= https://www.stuff.co.nz/environment/106160806/new-zealand-to-ban-singleuse-plastic-bags|access-date=12 August 2018|publisher=Stuff|date=10 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231005153546/https://www.stuff.co.nz/environment/106160806/new-zealand-to-ban-singleuse-plastic-bags|archive-date=5 October 2023|url-status=live}}{{Cite web |date=29 June 2023 |title=Next step of the single-use plastics ban: What you need to know |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/492881/next-step-of-the-single-use-plastics-ban-what-you-need-to-know |access-date=2 December 2023 |website=RNZ |language=en-nz|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240412160426/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/492881/next-step-of-the-single-use-plastics-ban-what-you-need-to-know|archive-date=12 April 2024|url-status=live}}
• Reformed the Emissions Trading Scheme by adding an emissions cap and introducing other various changes{{Cite web |last=Daalder |first=Marc |date=2 June 2020 |title=Cap finally added to NZ's cap-and-trade scheme |url=http://newsroom.co.nz/2020/06/02/cap-finally-added-to-nzs-cap-and-trade-scheme/ |access-date=2 December 2023 |website=Newsroom |language=en-US |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231202013230/http://newsroom.co.nz/2020/06/02/cap-finally-added-to-nzs-cap-and-trade-scheme/|archive-date=2 December 2023|url-status=live}}
• Amended New Zealand's Paris Agreement Nationally determined contribution by increasing the 2030 target from a reduction of 30% to a reduction of 50% of net emissions relative to 2005 gross emissions{{Cite news |last=Te |first=Henry Cooke and Mandy |date=31 October 2021 |title=New Zealand increases climate pledge, aims to cut emissions by 50 per cent by 2030 |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/environment/climate-news/126838746/new-zealand-increases-climate-pledge-aims-to-cut-emissions-by-50-per-cent-by-2030 |access-date=2 December 2023 |work=Stuff |language=en|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240403031624/https://www.stuff.co.nz/environment/climate-news/126838746/new-zealand-increases-climate-pledge-aims-to-cut-emissions-by-50-per-cent-by-2030|archive-date=3 April 2024|url-status=live}}

• Cancelled the previous National Government's proposed tax cuts
• Established a Tax Working Group
• Fuel tax excise was increased, and local governments were enabled to charge regional fuel taxes. In 2022 in response to increasing inflation the fuel excise was cut by 25 cents, road user charges were reduced and public transport fares halved.{{cite news |title=Public transport fares to be halved, fuel taxes and road user charges reduced |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/463279/public-transport-fares-to-be-halved-fuel-taxes-and-road-user-charges-reduced |access-date=10 November 2023 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=14 March 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240418183858/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/463279/public-transport-fares-to-be-halved-fuel-taxes-and-road-user-charges-reduced|archive-date=18 April 2024|url-status=live}}
• Rolling increases to tobacco excise, in place since 2010, were cancelled in 2020{{cite web |url=https://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PO2005/S00192/good-news-tobacco-tax-not-hiked-again.htm |title=Good News Tobacco Tax Not Hiked Again |author= |date=14 May 2020 |website=Scoop |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231005125753/https://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PO2005/S00192/good-news-tobacco-tax-not-hiked-again.htm|archive-date=5 October 2023|url-status=live}}

{{see also|List of international prime ministerial trips made by Jacinda Ardern}}

• Announced plans to initiate a Closer Commonwealth Economic Relations (CCER) agreement with the UK, Australia, Canada and other Commonwealth countries{{Cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2017/10/24/new-zealand-taking-initiative-trade-brexit-britain-should-respond/|title=New Zealand is taking the initiative on trade — Brexit Britain should respond in kind|last=Lilico|first=Andrew|date=24 October 2017|work=The Telegraph|access-date=15 November 2017|language=en-GB|issn=0307-1235|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230906001054/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2017/10/24/new-zealand-taking-initiative-trade-brexit-britain-should-respond/|archive-date=6 September 2023|url-status=live}}
• Announced plans to reopen trade talks with Russia (as part of the Labour–NZ First agreement).{{cite news|url= http://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/news/article.cfm?c_id=3&objectid=11940045 |title= Winston (Peters) tilt to Russia raises alarm |work=New Zealand Herald |date=4 November 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171103182420/http://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/news/article.cfm?c_id=3&objectid=11940045|archive-date=3 November 2017|url-status=live}} These talks were suspended in response to the poisoning of Sergei and Yulia Skripal{{cite news|title=Government steps back from Trade talks with Russia|url=http://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/politics/government-steps-back-from-trade-talks-with-russia/|access-date=16 March 2018|work=Newstalk ZB|date=16 March 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231010134544/http://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/politics/government-steps-back-from-trade-talks-with-russia/|archive-date=10 October 2023|url-status=live}}{{cite news|last1=Cheng|first1=Derek|title=Govt steps back from Russia free trade deal following chemical attack|url=http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12014414|access-date=16 March 2018|work=The New Zealand Herald|date=16 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180316081510/http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12014414|archive-date=16 March 2018}}
• A shift from a "donor, recipient" relationship to a partnership–based relationship with Pacific Island states was commenced
• Plans to ratify the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership{{cite news|last1=Trevett|first1=Claire|title=NZ signs CPTPP deal in Chile|url=http://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/news/article.cfm?c_id=3&objectid=12009366|access-date=8 March 2018|work=The New Zealand Herald|date=9 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180308233050/http://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/news/article.cfm?c_id=3&objectid=12009366|archive-date=8 March 2018|url-status=live}}
• Ratified the Global Compact for Migration
• Defence spending was significantly increased in the 2019 budget{{cite web |url=https://www.janes.com/article/88954/new-zealand-announces-major-increase-in-defence-spending |title=New Zealand announces major increase in defence spending |last=Grevatt |first=Jon |date=30 May 2019 |publisher=Jane's |access-date=8 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190531125417/https://www.janes.com/article/88954/new-zealand-announces-major-increase-in-defence-spending|archive-date=31 May 2019|url-status=dead}}

• Removed the ability for local government to impose height limits of less than six stories, and ended minimum car park requirements{{cite news |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/300064493/government-moves-to-end-minimum-carpark-requirements-and-remove-low-heightlimits-in-bid-to-increase-dense-housing |title=Government moves to end minimum carpark requirements and remove low height-limits in bid to increase dense housing |last=Cooke |first=Henry |date=24 July 2020 |website=Stuff |access-date=24 July 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240220120521/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/300064493/government-moves-to-end-minimum-carpark-requirements-and-remove-low-heightlimits-in-bid-to-increase-dense-housing|archive-date=20 February 2024|url-status=live}}

• Centralized all 20 District health boards into one national public health service, Te Whatu Ora - Health New Zealand, as well as establishing the Te Aka Whai Ora - the Māori Health Authority{{cite web | url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/300626841/new-era-for-health-as-health-new-zealand-formally-launches | title='New era' for health as Health New Zealand formally launches | date=30 June 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240507181215/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/300626841/new-era-for-health-as-health-new-zealand-formally-launches|archive-date=7 May 2024|url-status=live}}
• Established a ministerial inquiry into mental health, which resulted in the creation of Te Hiringa Mahara{{Cite web |title=Who we are |url=https://www.mhwc.govt.nz/about-us/who-we-are/ |access-date=2024-05-23 |website=Te Hiringa Mahara—Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission |language=en|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240528234351/https://www.mhwc.govt.nz/about-us/who-we-are/|archive-date=28 May 2024|url-status=live}}
• Introduced legislation to legalise medical cannabis
• Free doctors' visits for all under-14's was introduced
• Re-established the Mental Health Commission
• Plan to rebuild the Dunedin Hospital by 2026{{cite news|title=Dunedin Hospital announcement: What you need to know|url=https://www.odt.co.nz/news/dunedin/dunedin-hospital-announcement-what-you-need-know|access-date=4 May 2018|work=Otago Daily Times|date=4 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240418000954/https://www.odt.co.nz/news/dunedin/dunedin-hospital-announcement-what-you-need-know|archive-date=18 April 2024|url-status=live}}{{cite news|last1=McNeilly|first1=Hamish|title=Popular tourist attraction Cadbury World closing to make way for $1.4 billion Dunedin Hospital|url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/103621156/popular-tourist-attraction-cadbury-world-closing-to-make-way-for-14-billion-dunedin-hospital|access-date=4 May 2018|publisher=Stuff|date=4 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231010133921/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/103621156/former-cadbury-chocolate-factory-to-become-part-of-14-billion-dunedin-hospital|archive-date=10 October 2023|url-status=live}}
• A bill banning smoking in cars with children present was passed{{cite news|url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/417616/bill-banning-smoking-in-cars-with-children-inside-passes |title=Bill banning smoking in cars with children inside passes |last=McCullough |first=Yvette |date=27 May 2020 |work=Radio New Zealand |access-date=28 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231130163538/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/417616/bill-banning-smoking-in-cars-with-children-inside-passes|archive-date=30 November 2023|url-status=live}}
• A plan to provide free female sanitary products in secondary schools by 2021 was initiated{{cite news|url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/418173/government-to-provide-free-sanitary-items-in-schools |title=Government to provide free sanitary items in schools |author= |date=3 June 2020 |work=Radio New Zealand |access-date=3 June 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240416195340/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/418173/government-to-provide-free-sanitary-items-in-schools|archive-date=16 April 2024|url-status=live}}
• Pill testing at summer festivals was legalised{{cite news |url=https://www.thespinoff.co.nz/politics/01-12-2020/legal-pill-testing-at-summer-festivals-is-only-the-first-step/ |title=Legal pill testing at summer festivals is only the first step |last=Giovanetti |first=Justin |date=1 December 2020 |work=The Spinoff|access-date=2 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231010133037/https://thespinoff.co.nz/politics/01-12-2020/legal-pill-testing-at-summer-festivals-is-only-the-first-step|archive-date=10 October 2023|url-status=live}}

{{update|section|reason=missing March 2021 housing announcements|date=March 2021}}

• Passed the Healthy Homes Guarantee Act 2017, requiring all rental homes to be warm and dry
• Extended the bright-line test, which requires tax to be paid on the increase in value of a property resold within a given period, to five years. Later extended further to ten years.{{cite news|url=https://www.interest.co.nz/property/92868/tuesday-night-bill-which-will-see-bright-lines-test-extended-two-years-five-passed|title=The Bill that will see the bright line test extended from two-years to five has passed its third reading and now awaits the Royal Assent to become law|publisher=interest.co.nz|date=28 March 2018|first=Jason|last=Walls|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231005131532/https://www.interest.co.nz/property/92868/tuesday-night-bill-which-will-see-bright-lines-test-extended-two-years-five-passed|archive-date=5 October 2023|url-status=live}}
• Restricted foreigners (with the exception of Australian citizens) from buying existing residential homes{{cite news|title=Ban on foreign house buyers by early 2018 - but Aussie buyers exempt|url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/ban-on-foreign-house-buyers-by-early-2018-but-aussie-buyers-exempt/2YCYCPHTWZU2UUTROWWIARZ4OM/?c_id=3&objectid=11939067|access-date=1 November 2017|work=The New Zealand Herald|date=31 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231018193751/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/ban-on-foreign-house-buyers-by-early-2018-but-aussie-buyers-exempt/2YCYCPHTWZU2UUTROWWIARZ4OM/?c_id=3&objectid=11939067|archive-date=18 October 2023|url-status=live}}{{cite news|last1=Greenfield|first1=Charlotte|title=New Zealand PM says ban on foreign home buyers to start early 2018|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-newzealand-politics-housing/new-zealand-pm-says-ban-on-foreign-home-buyers-to-start-early-2018-idUSKBN1D00AR|access-date=1 November 2017|work=Reuters|date=31 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171031085933/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-newzealand-politics-housing/new-zealand-pm-says-ban-on-foreign-home-buyers-to-start-early-2018-idUSKBN1D00AR|archive-date=31 October 2017|url-status=live}}
• Ceased the sale of state houses
• Established an Affordable Housing Authority and implemented the KiwiBuild programme
• Comprehensive register of foreign-owned land and housing established
• A rent-to-own scheme as part of KiwiBuild
• Building consents for low risk projects, such as garden sheds and sleepouts, were scrapped.{{cite web |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/121606376/diy-dream-come-true-building-consents-for-low-risk-projects-scrapped |title=DIY dream come true: building consents for low risk projects scrapped |last=Kenny |first=Lee |date=24 May 2020 |website=Stuff |access-date=24 May 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240303232839/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/121606376/diy-dream-come-true-building-consents-for-low-risk-projects-scrapped|archive-date=3 March 2024|url-status=live}}
• Legislation improving rights for renters was passed, which included rent increases being limited to once per year. No cause evictions were also scrapped.{{cite news |last=Cooke |first=Henry |date=5 August 2020 |title=Government bans rental bidding, limits rent rises, and ends no-cause evictions with new rental laws |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/300074866/government-bans-rental-bidding-limits-rent-rises-and-ends-nocause-evictions-with-new-rental-laws |access-date=8 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806161003/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/300074866/government-bans-rental-bidding-limits-rent-rises-and-ends-nocause-evictions-with-new-rental-laws|archive-date=6 August 2020|url-status=live}}
• A shared ownership scheme with Kāinga Ora was introduced to assist first home buyers.{{cite news |last1=Stock |first1=Rob |title=Government launches shared home ownership scheme for families that can't save a deposit |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/126581320/government-launches-shared-home-ownership-scheme-for-families-that-cant-save-a-deposit |work=Stuff |date=4 October 2021 |access-date=7 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231005153549/https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/126581320/government-launches-shared-home-ownership-scheme-for-families-that-cant-save-a-deposit|archive-date=5 October 2023|url-status=live}}

• Reduce net immigration by 20,000–30,000 a year. Ardern later said there would be no immediate cut to immigration{{cite news|url=http://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/politics/ardern-no-cuts-to-immigration-coming-just-yet/|title=Ardern: No cuts to immigration coming just yet|date=7 November 2017|first=Lesley|last=Deverall|work=Newstalk ZB|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231010134540/http://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/politics/ardern-no-cuts-to-immigration-coming-just-yet/|archive-date=10 October 2023|url-status=live}}
• Creating a special refugee visa category to resettle Pacific Islanders displaced by climate change{{cite news|last1=Anderson|first1=Charles|title=New Zealand considers creating climate change refugee visas|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/oct/31/new-zealand-considers-creating-climate-change-refugee-visas|access-date=1 November 2017|work=The Guardian|date=31 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240622001955/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/oct/31/new-zealand-considers-creating-climate-change-refugee-visas|archive-date=22 June 2024|url-status=live}}
• The refugee resettlement quota was increased, which met a longstanding commitment to the double the quota refugee advocacy campaign{{cite news|url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/107203279/refugee-quota-lifting-to-1500-by-2020.html|title=Refugee quota lifting to 1500 by 2020|work=Stuff |date=19 September 2018 |language=en|access-date=21 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231005125805/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/107203279/refugee-quota-lifting-to-1500-by-2020.html|archive-date=5 October 2023|url-status=live}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.labour.org.nz/labour_joins_double_the_quota_campaign|title=Labour joins Double the Quota campaign|work=New Zealand Labour Party|access-date=2018-11-21|language=en|archive-date=22 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181122052100/https://www.labour.org.nz/labour_joins_double_the_quota_campaign|url-status=dead}}
• Temporarily closed national borders to all non-residents during the COVID-19 pandemic in New Zealand.{{cite news |title=Covid-19: No indoor gatherings of 100+ people – govt |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/covid-19/412148/covid-19-no-indoor-gatherings-of-100-people-govt |access-date=19 March 2020 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=19 March 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200320150213/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/covid-19/412148/covid-19-no-indoor-gatherings-of-100-people-govt |archive-date=20 March 2020 |url-status=live }}

• Held a referendum on legalising recreational cannabis use
• Passed a law allowing survivors of domestic violence 10 days paid leave from work{{cite web |last1=Kindelan |first1=Katie |title=New Zealand approves paid leave after miscarriage |url=https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/News/zealand-approves-paid-leave-miscarriage/story?id=76680398 |website=ABC News |access-date=29 March 2022|date=26 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240711164729/https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/News/zealand-approves-paid-leave-miscarriage/story?id=76680398|archive-date=11 July 2024|url-status=live}}
• Allowed men convicted of historic crimes relating to consensual homosexual sex to have their records expunged{{cite news |last=Satherley |first=Dan |date=27 September 2018 |title=First homosexual convictions expunged |url=https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2018/09/first-homosexual-convictions-expunged.html |work=Newshub |access-date=10 May 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240411030159/https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2018/09/first-homosexual-convictions-expunged.html|archive-date=11 April 2024|url-status=dead}}
• Removed abortion from the Crimes Act via the Abortion Legislation Act 2020.
• Reinstated the right of prisoners, serving less than a three-year sentence, to vote in elections{{cite web |last1=Little |first1=Andrew |title=Prisoner voting rights to be restored ahead of the 2020 General Election |url=https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/prisoner-voting-rights-be-restored-ahead-2020-general-election |website=Beehive.govt.nz |publisher=New Zealand Government |access-date=29 March 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240412120950/https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/prisoner-voting-rights-be-restored-ahead-2020-general-election|archive-date=12 April 2024|url-status=live}}
• Banned the practice of conversion therapy on LGBT persons under the age of 18{{cite web |last1=Corlett |first1=Eva |title=New Zealand bans conversion practices in vote hailed as 'win for humanity' |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/feb/16/new-zealand-bans-conversion-practices-in-vote-hailed-as-win-for-humanity |work=The Guardian |date=15 February 2022 |access-date=29 March 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240525064732/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/feb/16/new-zealand-bans-conversion-practices-in-vote-hailed-as-win-for-humanity|archive-date=25 May 2024|url-status=live}}

• Announced plans for a royalty on exports of bottled waters
• Divided the Ministry for Primary Industries into separate agriculture, forestry, and fishing departments{{cite news|title=Labour-NZ First government to split up Ministry for Primary Industries|url=https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/labour-nz-first-government-split-up-ministry-primary-industries|access-date=7 November 2017|publisher=1News|date=26 October 2017|archive-date=7 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171107113801/https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/labour-nz-first-government-split-up-ministry-primary-industries|url-status=dead}}
• Reduced public funding for irrigation projects while subsidising existing projects in early April 2018{{cite news|last1=Morton|first1=Jamie|title=Govt begins winding down irrigation funding|url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/govt-begins-winding-down-irrigation-funding/SWFBFP25TRCD2HMZPKVHUFF7SM/|access-date=19 April 2018|work=The New Zealand Herald|date=5 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231023152651/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/govt-begins-winding-down-irrigation-funding/SWFBFP25TRCD2HMZPKVHUFF7SM/|archive-date=23 October 2023|url-status=live}}

• Legislated to introduce the Families Package (including Winter Energy Payment, Best Start, and increases to paid parental leave)
• Resumed funding to the New Zealand Superannuation Fund to keep the retirement age at 65
• The Family Tax Credit, Orphans Benefit, Accommodation Supplement, and Foster Care Allowance were all substantially increased as part of Labour's Families Package{{cite web |url=http://www.workandincome.govt.nz/about-work-and-income/news/2017/families-package.html |title=Families Package - Work and Income |date=14 December 2017 |website=www.workandincome.govt.nz |access-date=5 April 2021 |archive-date=9 May 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210509133028/https://www.workandincome.govt.nz/about-work-and-income/news/2017/families-package.html |url-status=dead }}
• Introduced legislation to set a child poverty reduction target
• Established a Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care
• Introduced a new generation SuperGold smart card with entitlements and concessions
• Removed some "excessive" benefit sanctions
• Set a target to eliminate the gender pay gap within the public sector
• A lunch programme was introduced for low decile schools.{{cite news |last=Biddle |first=Donna-Lee |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/117748418/free-lunches-for-lowdecile-school-kids-whats-on-the-menu |title=Free lunches for low-decile school kids: What's on the menu? |date=28 November 2019 |work=Stuff |access-date=8 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230328012014/https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/117748418/free-lunches-for-lowdecile-school-kids-whats-on-the-menu|archive-date=28 March 2023|url-status=live}}
• Welfare benefits were increased in response to COVID-19 and the Winter Energy Payment was temporarily doubled
• Funding for sexual and domestic violence services was significantly increased{{cite web |url=https://www.msd.govt.nz/about-msd-and-our-work/work-programmes/initiatives/family-and-sexual-violence/funding-for-sexual-violence-services-through-budget-2019.html |title=Funding for sexual violence services through Budget 2019 |author= |date= 11 December 2019 |website=Ministry of Social Development |access-date=14 May 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240508025109/https://www.msd.govt.nz/about-msd-and-our-work/work-programmes/initiatives/family-and-sexual-violence/funding-for-sexual-violence-services-through-budget-2019.html|archive-date=8 May 2024|url-status=live}}
• Increased main benefits by $25 per week effective from 1 April 2020.{{cite web |url=https://www.beehive.govt.nz/sites/default/files/2020-03/Income%20support%20factsheet.pdf |title=Income Support Factsheet |author= Not stated |website= beehive.govt.nz |publisher=New Zealand Government|access-date=9 June 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240523040803/https://www.beehive.govt.nz/sites/default/files/2020-03/Income%20support%20factsheet.pdf|archive-date=23 May 2024|url-status=live}}
• A weekly tax-free "income relief" payment was introduced for workers made redundant during the economic fall out of COVID-19.{{cite news |last=Manch |first=Thomas |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/coronavirus/121614298/coronavirus-weekly-490-payments-for-unemployed-workers-in-12b-government-relief-scheme |title=Coronavirus: Weekly $490 payments for unemployed workers in $1.2b Government relief scheme |date=25 May 2020 |work=Stuff |access-date=25 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240530081712/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/coronavirus/121614298/coronavirus-weekly-490-payments-for-unemployed-workers-in-12b-government-relief-scheme|archive-date=30 May 2024|url-status=live }}
• Social security benefits were indexed to wages instead of the Consumer Price Index, this would double the amount of benefit dependent persons would have otherwise received without wage indexation{{cite web|date=28 February 2021|title=Main benefits to increase in line with wages|website=Beehive.govt.nz |publisher=New Zealand Government|url=https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/main-benefits-increase-line-wages|access-date=15 May 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240412073606/https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/main-benefits-increase-line-wages|archive-date=12 April 2024|url-status=live}}
• Increased abatement thresholds from $90 per week to $160 before social security benefits are abated.{{cite web|date=28 February 2021|title=Government delivers on promise to working low-income families |website=Beehive.govt.nz |publisher=New Zealand Government|url=https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/government-delivers-promise-working-low-income-families|access-date=15 April 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240412073607/https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/government-delivers-promise-working-low-income-families|archive-date=12 April 2024|url-status=live}}
• The 2021 budget substantially raised benefits, between $32 and $55 per week, for persons dependent on social security payments and will be fully implemented by April 2022.{{update after|2022|4}}{{cite web |last=McCullogh |first=Craig|url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/442983/budget-2021-benefits-boost-in-quest-to-reduce-inequality |title=Budget 2021: Benefits boost in 'quest to reduce inequality' |date=20 May 2021 |work=RNZ|access-date=20 May 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240416205858/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/442983/budget-2021-benefits-boost-in-quest-to-reduce-inequality|archive-date=16 April 2024|url-status=live}}
• Passed the Births, Deaths, Marriages, and Relationships Registration Act 2021 making self-identification easier by removing the requirement for transgender New Zealanders to provide medical proof of medical treatment or a Family Court declaration before sex can be changed on a birth certificate.{{cite news |last1=Manch |first1=Thomas |title=Parliament unanimously passes sex self-identification law, simplifying changes to birth certificates |url= https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/127239124/parliament-unanimously-passes-sex-selfidentification-law-simplifying-changes-to-birth-certificates |work=Stuff |date=9 December 2021 |access-date=9 December 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211209053119/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/127239124/parliament-unanimously-passes-sex-selfidentification-law-simplifying-changes-to-birth-certificates|archive-date=9 December 2021|url-status=live}}

• Re-allocated spending towards rail and cycling infrastructure, and road safety improvements
• Announced plans to reestablish light rail to Auckland Airport and to West Auckland{{cite news |url= https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/95488637/jacinda-ardern-promises-light-rail-to-auckland-airport |title= Jacinda Ardern promises light rail to Auckland Airport |work=Sunday Star Times |publisher=Stuff |date=6 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240304023055/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/95488637/jacinda-ardern-promises-light-rail-to-auckland-airport|archive-date=4 March 2024|url-status=live}}
• Commuter rail in 18 months to Hamilton.{{cite news|last1=Shand|first1=Matt |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/waikato-times/news/95999367/labour-promises-rail-within-18-months-for-hamilton-commuters |title= Commuter rail from Auckland to Hamilton |work=Waikato Times |publisher=Stuff |date=21 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240430152105/https://www.stuff.co.nz/waikato-times/news/95999367/labour-promises-rail-within-18-months-for-hamilton-commuters|archive-date=30 April 2024|url-status=live}}
• Commuter rail to Hamilton and Tauranga.{{cite news |last1=Small |first1=Vernon |last2=Forbes |first2=Michael |title=Labour to spend $20m on commuter rail between Auckland, Hamilton and Tauranga |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/95985999/labour-to-spend-20m-on-commuter-rail-between-auckland-hamilton-and-tauranga |access-date=23 August 2024 |work=Stuff |date=21 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231005130205/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/95985999/labour-to-spend-20m-on-commuter-rail-between-auckland-hamilton-and-tauranga |archive-date=5 October 2023|url-status=live}}
• Commuter rail for Christchurch.{{cite news |last1=Hayward |first1=Michael |last2=Small |first2=Janine |title=Labour commits to Christchurch commuter rail in $100m package |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/93960723/labour-commits-to-christchurch-commuter-rail-in-100m-package |access-date=23 August 2024 |work=Stuff |date=22 June 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231005130027/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/93960723/labour-commits-to-christchurch-commuter-rail-in-100m-package |archive-date=5 October 2023|url-status=live}}
• Retain the Capital Connection from Palmerston North to Wellington.{{cite news |last1=Schroeter |first1=Miri |title=Capital Connection has Government support but councils fear KiwiRail wants out |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/98259203/capital-connection-has-government-support-but-councils-fear-kiwirail-wants-out |access-date=23 August 2024 |work=Stuff |date=2 November 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231005125714/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/98259203/capital-connection-has-government-support-but-councils-fear-kiwirail-wants-out |archive-date=5 October 2023|url-status=live}}
• Funding for irrigation projects was reduced.
• Wairoa to Napier rail line reinstated.{{cite news |title=Reinstated Wairoa to Napier rail line should bring growth |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/408144/reinstated-wairoa-to-napier-rail-line-should-bring-growth |access-date=23 August 2024 |work=RNZ |date=25 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240419191509/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/408144/reinstated-wairoa-to-napier-rail-line-should-bring-growth |archive-date=19 April 2024|url-status=live}}
• Feasibility study of moving the Port of Auckland to Northport, Whangarei, and upgrades of road and rail to Northport; as part of Labour-NZ First agreement.{{cite news |last1=Fonseka |first1=Dileepa |title=Government eyes a shift north for the Ports of Auckland to give Winston his bottom line |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/98124898/coalition-government-eyes-a-shift-north-for-the-ports-of-auckland |access-date=23 August 2024 |work=Stuff |date=22 October 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240419191509/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/408144/reinstated-wairoa-to-napier-rail-line-should-bring-growth |archive-date=19 April 2024|url-status=live}}
• $12 billion was set aside to invest in the 'New Zealand Upgrade Programme', providing funding for infrastructure projects.{{cite web |url=https://www.beehive.govt.nz/feature/new-zealand-upgrade-programme |title=The New Zealand Upgrade Programme |date=29 January 2020 |website=Beehive.govt.nz|publisher=New Zealand Government|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240514162541/https://www.beehive.govt.nz/feature/new-zealand-upgrade-programme|archive-date=14 May 2024|url-status=live}}

File:New Zealand Cabinet October 2017.jpg

In mid October 2017, Jacinda Ardern announced that the Cabinet would consist of 20 members, of which 16 would be from the Labour Party and 4 from New Zealand First. A further five Labour MPs would sit outside of Cabinet, along with three Green MPs.{{cite web |title=Ministerial List |url=https://www.dpmc.govt.nz/sites/default/files/2017-10/ministerial-list-26-oct-2017.pdf |publisher=Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet |access-date=20 January 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231217204533/https://www.dpmc.govt.nz/sites/default/files/2017-10/ministerial-list-26-oct-2017.pdf |archive-date=17 December 2023 |date=26 October 2017 |url-status=live}}

On 27 June 2019, Ardern announced a cabinet reshuffle. She split the housing portfolio into three positions; appointing Megan Woods as Minister of Housing, Kris Faafoi as Associate Minister of Housing, and Phil Twyford as Minister of Urban Development. In addition, Grant Robertson was appointed as Minister Responsible for the Earthquake Commission; Jenny Salesa as Minister of Customs; and Peeni Henare became Minister of Civil Defence. In addition, several Labour Members of Parliament were appointed to various parliamentary positions including assistant speaker, senior government whip, and parliamentary private secretaries.{{cite news |last1=Small |first1=Zane |title=Jacinda Ardern's Cabinet reshuffle: Phil Twyford's Housing portfolio split into three |url=https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2019/06/jacinda-ardern-s-cabinet-reshuffle-twyford-s-housing-portfolio-split-into-three.html |access-date=1 July 2019 |publisher=Newshub |date=27 June 2019 |archive-date=29 June 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190629073652/https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2019/06/jacinda-ardern-s-cabinet-reshuffle-twyford-s-housing-portfolio-split-into-three.html |url-status=dead }}{{cite news |title=Winners and losers - PM reveals first substantive Cabinet reshuffle |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/393077/winners-and-losers-pm-reveals-first-substantive-cabinet-reshuffle |access-date=1 July 2019 |publisher=Radio New Zealand |date=27 June 2019 |archive-date=1 July 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190701034507/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/393077/winners-and-losers-pm-reveals-first-substantive-cabinet-reshuffle |url-status=live }}

On 2 November 2020, after the 2020 election, a new cabinet reflective of the Labour majority was announced.{{cite web |title=The full list of Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern's new Cabinet |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/300147743/the-full-list-of-prime-minister-jacinda-arderns-new-cabinet |website=Stuff |language=en |date=2 November 2020}} It was sworn in on 6 November 2020. On 14 June 2022, a cabinet reshuffle occurred.{{Cite news |first=Thomas |last=Manch |title=Labour's new Cabinet – who's in, who's out, as Trevor Mallard and Kris Faafoi resign |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/128950128/labours-new-cabinet--whos-in-whos-out-as-trevor-mallard-and-kris-faafoi-resign |date=13 June 2022 |access-date=13 June 2022 |work=Stuff |language=en-NZ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220614102657/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/128950128/labours-new-cabinet--whos-in-whos-out-as-trevor-mallard-and-kris-faafoi-resign|archive-date=14 June 2022|url-status=live}}

On 13 June 2022, a third cabinet reshuffle occurred. Kris Faafoi resigned from Parliament, with his immigration, justice, and broadcasting portfolios being assumed by Michael Wood, Kiri Allan, and Willie Jackson. In addition, Ardern confirmed that Speaker of the House Trevor Mallard would be resigning in mid-August 2022 to assume a diplomatic post in Europe. Adrian Rurawhe was designated as his successor. In addition, Poto Williams stepped down from her Police ministerial portfolio, which was assumed by Chris Hipkins. Priyanca Radhakrishnan was promoted to Cabinet while retaining her community and voluntary sector, ethnic communities, youth, associate social development portfolios and adopting the associate workplace relations portfolios. Former Chief Whip Kieran McAnulty became deputy leader of the House while gaining the associate transport, associate local government, emergency management and racing portfolios. In addition, Ayesha Verrall assumed the COVID-19 response and Research, Science and Innovation ministerial portfolios; Duncan Webb became the new Chief Whip; and Meka Whatiri assumed the food safety portfolio.{{cite news |title=Mallard to step down as Speaker for diplomatic post |url=https://www.1news.co.nz/2022/06/13/mallard-to-step-down-as-speaker-for-diplomatic-post/ |access-date=14 June 2022 |work=1News |publisher=TVNZ |date=13 June 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220614111218/https://www.1news.co.nz/2022/06/13/mallard-to-step-down-as-speaker-for-diplomatic-post/ |archive-date=14 June 2022|url-status=live}} Labour list MPs Dan Rosewarne and Soraya Peke-Mason replaced the outgoing Faafoi and Mallard.{{cite news |last1=Weekes |first1=John |title=Cabinet reshuffle: Jacinda Ardern announces shake-up - Trevor Mallard, Kris Faafoi depart; Poto Williams replaced as Police Minister |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/cabinet-reshuffle-jacinda-ardern-announces-shake-up-trevor-mallard-kris-faafoi-depart-poto-williams-replaced-as-police-minister/XZLPPSICJ6E5SOKXERROGRSCM4 |access-date=14 June 2022 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=13 June 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220614111943/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/cabinet-reshuffle-jacinda-ardern-announces-shake-up-trevor-mallard-kris-faafoi-depart-poto-williams-replaced-as-police-minister/XZLPPSICJ6E5SOKXERROGRSCM4/?uuid=f1ed50b9aa1d47329c4f8c448274b36f |archive-date=14 June 2022}}

Chris Hipkins succeeded Ardern as prime minister on 25 January 2023 and a minor cabinet reshuffle occurred to reallocate Ardern's and Hipkins' previous portfolios, as well as the appointment of Carmel Sepuloni as deputy prime minister.{{Cite web |last=Whyte |first=Anna |date=2023-01-25 |title=Chris Hipkins formally sworn in as new prime minister |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/131057178/chris-hipkins-formally-sworn-in-as-new-prime-minister |access-date=2023-01-25 |website=Stuff |language=en}} Hipkins announced a wider reshuffle of portfolios the following week, on 31 January. Andrew Little was replaced as Health Minister by Ayesha Verrall while Michael Wood was assigned the new Minister of Auckland portfolio. Kieran McAnulty succeeded Nanaia Mahuta as Minister of Local Government. Mahuta herself retained her Foreign Minister portfolio. Jan Tinetti was also appointed as Education Minister and gained the child poverty reduction. Ginny Andersen and Barbara Edmonds also joined Hipkins' Cabinet. Andersen assumed the "Digital Economy and Communications, Small Business, and Seniors ministerial portfolios as well as the immigration and Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations associate portfolios. Edmonds assumed the Internal Affairs and Pacific Peoples ministerial portfolio as well as health and housing associate portfolios.{{cite news |last1=Desmarais |first1=Felix |title=Cabinet reshuffle: Who's in and who's out? |url=https://www.1news.co.nz/2023/01/31/cabinet-reshuffle-whos-in-and-whos-out/ |access-date=1 February 2023 |work=1News |publisher=TVNZ |date=31 January 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230201081524/https://www.1news.co.nz/2023/01/31/cabinet-reshuffle-whos-in-and-whos-out/ |archive-date=1 February 2023}}

On 12 March 2018, allegations of multiple sexual assaults at the Young Labour Summer School at Waitawheta Camp in Waihi emerged. It was alleged that a 20-year-old man put his hands down the pants of four sixteen-year-olds on the second night of the camp, which occurred a month earlier. It was reported that there were "mountains of alcohol" present at the camp, and that people under the legal drinking age of eighteen were consuming alcohol. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern was not informed of the allegations by party leadership, despite them knowing a month earlier. Support had not been offered to the victims, something Ardern said she was "deeply sorry" for.{{cite news |last1=Jennings |first1=Mark |last2=Reid |first2=Melanie |title=Sexual misconduct alleged at boozy Labour Party camp |url=https://www.newsroom.co.nz/2018/03/12/96033/labour-summer-school-claims |access-date=28 December 2018 |publisher=Newsroom |date=12 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240511183540/https://www.newsroom.co.nz/2018/03/12/96033/labour-summer-school-claims|archive-date=11 May 2024|url-status=live}}{{cite news |last1=Walters |first1=Laura |title=Arrest after alleged sexual assaults at Labour Party youth camp |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/105003464/labour-youth-camp-arrest |access-date=28 December 2018 |publisher=Stuff |date=26 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231005130027/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/105003464/labour-youth-camp-arrest|archive-date=5 October 2023|url-status=live}} Ardern did not fire any of her party staffers who failed to act on information of the allegations and inform her. Former Prime Minister of the Fifth Labour Government Helen Clark criticised this response, saying "heads would have rolled" if she was at the helm.{{cite news |last1=Bathgate |first1=Ben |title=How Helen Clark would have handled the youth camp sex assaults |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/106698295/how-helen-clark-would-have-handled-the-youth-camp-sex-assaults |access-date=28 December 2018 |publisher=Stuff |date=30 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231005125402/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/106698295/how-helen-clark-would-have-handled-the-youth-camp-sex-assaults|archive-date=5 October 2023|url-status=live}}

In late November 2019, the man, who had pleaded guilty to two charges of indecent assault, was discharged without conviction.{{cite news |last1=Scotcher |first1=Katie |title=Young Labour summer camp assaulter discharged without conviction |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/404327/young-labour-summer-camp-assaulter-discharged-without-conviction |access-date=30 November 2019 |work=Stuff |date=28 November 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240507181347/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/404327/young-labour-summer-camp-assaulter-discharged-without-conviction|archive-date=7 May 2024|url-status=live}}< In response, one of the male victims expressed disappointment with the court decision, stating that they had lost faith in the justice system.{{cite news |last1=Dahmen |first1=Aaron |last2=Hurley |first2=Sam |title=Labour Party camp scandal: Victim speaks out |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/labour-party-camp-scandal-victim-speaks-out/H6F64CL6CLOGQDJHU4TN7FLBT4/ |access-date=18 December 2019 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=28 November 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231018071057/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/labour-party-camp-scandal-victim-speaks-out/H6F64CL6CLOGQDJHU4TN7FLBT4/|archive-date=18 October 2023|url-status=live}}

On 24 May 2018, Transport Minister Phil Twyford resigned from his Civil Aviation portfolio after making an unauthorised phone call on a domestic flight as the plane was taking off, a violation of civil aviation laws. The matter had been raised by Opposition Transport spokesperson Judith Collins.{{cite news|last2=Moir|first2=Jo|url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/104196693/minister-phil-twyford-apologises-for-civil-aviation-breach|title=Minister Phil Twyford apologises for Civil Aviation breach|last1=Watkins|first1=Tracy|date=24 May 2018|access-date=24 May 2018|publisher=Stuff|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231005125712/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/104196693/minister-phil-twyford-apologises-for-civil-aviation-breach|archive-date=5 October 2023|url-status=live}}

On 24 August, Ardern announced the removal of Clare Curran from Cabinet, and stripped her of her Open Government and Government Digital Services porfolios. These were reassigned to Education Minister Chris Hipkins and Energy and Resources Minister Megan Woods respectively. Curran's sacking was the result of her failure to disclose that she had held informal meetings with entrepreneur Derek Handley in November 2017 and February 2018, which could have created potential conflicts of interest.<{{cite news |last1=Hurley |first1=Emma |title=Prime Minister removes Clare Curran from Cabinet |url=https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2018/08/prime-minister-removes-clare-curran-from-cabinet.html |access-date=24 August 2018 |publisher=Newshub |date=24 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240415071205/https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2018/08/prime-minister-removes-clare-curran-from-cabinet.html|archive-date=15 April 2024|url-status=dead}} After a poor performance while answering a question from National's spokesperson for Broadcasting Melissa Lee during Question Time, Curran announced that she was stepping down as Minister for Broadcasting. She was to remain as MP for Dunedin-South, and Kris Faafoi resumed her Broadcasting portfolio.{{cite news |last1=Miller |first1=Tim |title=Curran on personal leave after email grilling |url=https://www.odt.co.nz/news/politics/curran-personal-leave-after-email-grilling |access-date=28 December 2018 |work=Otago Daily Times |date=6 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231005125805/https://www.odt.co.nz/news/politics/curran-personal-leave-after-email-grilling|archive-date=5 October 2023|url-status=live}}

On 30 August 2018, Customs Minister Meka Whaitiri "stood aside" from her ministerial portfolios as part of an investigation into an allegation that she assaulted a staff member in her ministerial office. Ardern announced that Ministerial Services was investigating the allegations. Fellow Labour MP Kris Faafoi assumed the role of Acting Minister of Customs while her associate ministerial portfolios were assumed by their lead ministers.{{Cite news|url=https://www.radionz.co.nz/news/political/365312/labour-mp-stands-down-amid-assault-allegation|title=Labour MP stands down amid assault allegation|date=30 August 2018|work=Radio New Zealand |access-date=30 August 2018|language=en-nz|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231010152921/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/365312/labour-mp-stands-down-amid-assault-allegation|archive-date=10 October 2023|url-status=live}} On 20 September 2018, Ardern announced that she had fired Whaitiri from all of her ministerial portfolios. Ardern said that while aspects of the incident were disputed by Whaitiri, an incident involving Whaitiri manhandling and bullying a new staff member "undoubtedly took place". Kris Faafoi took over her portfolio of Customs. Whaitiri is to remain as the MP for Ikaroa-Rawhiti.{{cite news |last1=Cooke |first1=Henry |last2=Watkins |first2=Tracey |title=Prime Minister removes Meka Whaitiri as a minister |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/107248175/prime-minister-announces-decision-on-meka-whaitiri-inquiry |access-date=28 December 2018 |publisher=Stuff |date=20 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231005125719/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/107248175/prime-minister-announces-decision-on-meka-whaitiri-inquiry|archive-date=5 October 2023|url-status=live}}

In late October and early November 2018, the Immigration Minister Iain Lees-Galloway drew criticism from the opposition National Party for his decision to grant residency to the convicted Czech drug smuggler Karel Sroubek. It subsequently emerged that Sroubek had a lengthy criminal record in both the Czech Republic and New Zealand. The case also attracted considerable media interest in New Zealand and led the Czech government to announce that it would seek Sroubek's extradition.{{cite news |title=Karel Sroubek: Who is he? |url=https://www.radionz.co.nz/news/national/370120/karel-sroubek-who-is-he |access-date=16 January 2019 |publisher=Radio New Zealand |date=4 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231005125712/https://www.radionz.co.nz/news/national/370120/karel-sroubek-who-is-he|archive-date=5 October 2023|url-status=live}} In mid-December 2018, Lees-Galloway attributed his decision to grant Sroubek residency to incomplete information provided by Immigration New Zealand about Sroubek's criminal record.{{cite news |last1=Cheng |first1=Derek |title=Missing information on Sroubek would have 'likely' led to deportation - Minister |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/missing-information-on-sroubek-would-have-likely-led-to-deportation-minister/TC7APMNY3MAAMFAFNJWUC67GLA/ |access-date=16 January 2019 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=21 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231018212125/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/missing-information-on-sroubek-would-have-likely-led-to-deportation-minister/TC7APMNY3MAAMFAFNJWUC67GLA/|archive-date=18 October 2023|url-status=live}}

In early August 2019, several reports emerged about allegations of bullying, sexual harassment, and resignations from the Labour Party. Media were told that the formal complaints did not involve sexual assaults.{{cite news |last1=Cheng |first1=Derek |title=Woman alleging sexual assault calls Labour Party 'cowardly' |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/woman-alleging-sexual-assault-calls-labour-party-cowardly/NY7XAKNDFEFEVDBQ54UI5AERNM/ |access-date=12 September 2019 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=11 September 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231018010625/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/woman-alleging-sexual-assault-calls-labour-party-cowardly/NY7XAKNDFEFEVDBQ54UI5AERNM/|archive-date=18 October 2023|url-status=live}}{{cite news |last1=Manhire |first1=Toby |title=Timeline: Everything we know about the Labour staffer inquiry |url=https://thespinoff.co.nz/politics/11-09-2019/timeline-labour-staffer-misconduct-inquiry/ |access-date=12 September 2019 |publisher=The Spinoff |date=11 September 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240525141110/https://thespinoff.co.nz/politics/11-09-2019/timeline-labour-staffer-misconduct-inquiry/|archive-date=25 May 2024|url-status=live}} On 9 September, the online media outlet The Spinoff published an exclusive report by a 19-year-old female Labour Party volunteer alleging that she had been sexually assaulted by a Labour Party staffer.{{cite news |last1=Casey |first1=Alex |title=A Labour volunteer alleged a violent sexual assault by a Labour staffer. This is her story |url=https://thespinoff.co.nz/unsponsored/09-09-2019/a-labour-volunteer-alleged-violent-sexual-assault-by-a-senior-staffer-this-is-her-story/ |access-date=12 September 2019 |publisher=The Spinoff |date=9 September 2019}} In response to the report, Ardern said that she was repeatedly told by Labour that the complaint was not about sexual assault and that a review by Maria Dew QC will clear up the contradictory claims. The woman has stood by her claims while Labour Party President Nigel Haworth defended his handling of the complaints process.

On 11 September, Haworth resigned as Labour Party President following criticism of his handling of the complaints about the male staffer from several Labour Party members including bullying, harassment, and sexual assault. Earlier investigations had exonerated the man of these various claims.{{cite news |last1=Devlin |first1=Collette |title=Labour Party President Nigel Haworth resigns |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/115710495/labour-party-president-nigel-haworth-resigns |access-date=12 September 2019 |publisher=Stuff |date=11 September 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231005125807/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/115710495/labour-party-president-nigel-haworth-resigns|archive-date=5 October 2023|url-status=live}} These sexual assault allegations attracted coverage from several international media including the AFP, The Washington Post, Seven News, The Times, and The Sydney Morning Herald.{{cite news |last1=McKay |first1=Ben |title=Ardern accepts Labour chief's resignation amid sex assault scandal |url=https://www.smh.com.au/world/oceania/ardern-accepts-labour-chief-s-resignation-amid-sex-assault-scandal-20190911-p52q7s.html |access-date=11 September 2019 |publisher=The Sydney Morning Herald |date=11 September 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240609103440/https://www.smh.com.au/world/oceania/ardern-accepts-labour-chief-s-resignation-amid-sex-assault-scandal-20190911-p52q7s.html|archive-date=9 June 2024|url-status=live}}{{cite news |last1=Bateman |first1=Sophie |title='Embarrassment': International media reacts to Labour sexual assault scandal |url=https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2019/09/embarrassment-international-media-reacts-to-labour-sexual-assault-scandal.html |access-date=12 September 2019 |publisher=Newshub |date=12 September 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240520231702/https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2019/09/embarrassment-international-media-reacts-to-labour-sexual-assault-scandal.html|archive-date=20 May 2024|url-status=dead}} That same day, the National Party's deputy leader Paula Bennett claimed under parliamentary privilege that several of the Prime Minister's senior staff members and a Cabinet minister including Ardern's former chief of staff Mike Munro, current chief press secretary Andrew Campbell, and the director of the Labour leader's office Rob Salmond were aware of the sexual allegations.{{cite news |title=Bennett names Labour figures she says knew of sexual assault allegations |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/398584/bennett-names-labour-figures-she-says-knew-of-sexual-assault-allegations |access-date=12 September 2019 |publisher=Radio New Zealand |date=11 September 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231005125805/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/398584/bennett-names-labour-figures-she-says-knew-of-sexual-assault-allegations|archive-date=5 October 2023|url-status=live}}

On 12 September, the male Labour staffer accused of bullying and sexual assault resigned. He stated that he was cooperating with the Dew Inquiry and denied the allegations against him.{{cite news |last1=Cheng |first1=Derek |title=Labour staffer at centre of sexual assault allegations resigns |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/labour-staffer-at-centre-of-sexual-assault-allegations-resigns/GOU2QLRY3CVE7I4Q3I247WFG6Q/ |access-date=12 September 2019 |work=The New Zealand Herald |date=12 September 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231017205859/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/labour-staffer-at-centre-of-sexual-assault-allegations-resigns/GOU2QLRY3CVE7I4Q3I247WFG6Q/|archive-date=17 October 2023|url-status=live}} On 16 September, Ardern announced that Labour would be holding a second inquiry into its response to the sexual assault allegations made against the staffer. Simon Mitchell, the lawyer tasked with leading Labour's investigation into the misconduct, stated that he was unaware of the sexual assault allegations until they were first reported by the media.{{cite news |last1=O'Brien |first1=Tova |title=Labour Party lead investigator insists he wasn't told about sexual assault allegations |url=https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2019/09/labour-party-lead-investigator-insists-he-wasn-t-told-about-sexual-assault-allegations.html |access-date=16 September 2019 |publisher=Newshub |date=16 September 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240411025909/https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2019/09/labour-party-lead-investigator-insists-he-wasn-t-told-about-sexual-assault-allegations.html|archive-date=11 April 2024|url-status=dead}} National Party deputy leader Bennett claimed that the proposed inquiry did not go far enough and alleged that Finance Minister Grant Robertson had been aware of the sexual assault allegations as early as June 2019.{{cite news |last1=Cooke |first1=Henry |title=Labour scandal: Party to conduct two separate inquiries into sexual assault allegations |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/115833369/labour-scandal-party-to-conduct-two-separate-inquiries-into-sexual-assault-allegations-response |access-date=16 September 2019 |publisher=Stuff |date=16 September 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231005125737/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/115833369/labour-scandal-party-to-conduct-two-separate-inquiries-into-sexual-assault-allegations-response|archive-date=5 October 2023|url-status=live}}

On 18 December, Labour Party President Claire Szabo released the report by Maria Dew QC. While Dew's report found insufficient evidence to support allegations of sexual assault and harassment, it found that the former Labour Party staffer had shown "overbearing and aggressive" behaviour on five occasions. Dew recommended a letter cautioning the former staffer and that he write a letter of apology and participate in a restorative justice process with the victim.{{cite news |last1=Whyte |first1=Anna |title=Labour Party report finds 'insufficient evidence' that former staffer sexually assaulted woman |url=https://www.1news.co.nz/2019/12/18/labour-party-report-finds-insufficient-evidence-that-former-staffer-sexually-assaulted-woman/ |access-date=18 December 2019 |work=1News |date=18 December 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240823032453/https://www.1news.co.nz/2019/12/18/labour-party-report-finds-insufficient-evidence-that-former-staffer-sexually-assaulted-woman/|archive-date=23 August 2024|url-status=live}}

In November 2019, Infrastructure Minister and NZ First MP Shane Jones claimed Indian arranged marriages to be a sham and not adhering to the New Zealand way of life. His comments, described as racist, went unchallenged from the Labour cabinet ministers. He also claimed that arranged marriage partners' visa rules would not apply anymore following changes to the immigration rules.{{cite news |last1=Devlin |first1=Collette |title= Shane Jones making no apology to Indian community for 'racist' comments - says anxious Kiwis want national population policy |url= https://i.stuff.co.nz/national/117175642/shane-jones-making-no-apology-to-indian-community-for-racist-comments--says-anxious-kiwis-want-national-population-policy|access-date=19 April 2020 |publisher=Stuff |date=5 November 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200604065605/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/117175642/shane-jones-making-no-apology-to-indian-community-for-racist-comments--says-anxious-kiwis-want-national-population-policy|archive-date=4 June 2020}} Following a protest in Auckland, Immigration Minister Iain Lees-Galloway explained that immigration rules on arranged marriages were unchanged and clarified the misinformation provided by Shane Jones. Jones made further inflammatory comments against Indian students in January 2020.{{cite news |last1=Lynch |first1=Jenna |title= Major ruction in Government over Shane Jones' 'racist' Indian remarks |url= https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2020/03/major-ruction-in-government-over-shane-jones-racist-indian-remarks.amp.html |access-date=19 April 2020 |publisher=Newshub |date=3 March 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200303093439/https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2020/03/major-ruction-in-government-over-shane-jones-racist-indian-remarks.amp.html|archive-date=3 March 2020}}

In December 2019, Broadcasting Minister Kris Faafoi was criticised after offering to speed up an immigration visa application for Opshop singer Jason Kerrison's father. Opposition Leader Simon Bridges claimed that Faafoi's actions if proven constituted a conflict of interest that breached Cabinet rules. Faafoi subsequently apologised to Ardern.{{cite news |title=Ardern must 'deal with' reports Kris Faafoi offered to help friend in immigration case - Bridges |url=https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/ardern-must-deal-reports-kris-faafoi-offered-help-friend-in-immigration-case-bridges |access-date=6 December 2019 |work=Radio New Zealand |publisher=1News |date=6 December 2019 |archive-date=6 December 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191206043130/https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/ardern-must-deal-reports-kris-faafoi-offered-help-friend-in-immigration-case-bridges |url-status=dead }}{{cite news |last1=Manch |first1=Thomas |title=Minister Kris Faafoi apologises for promising to 'speed things up' for Opshop singer |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/118000681/minister-kris-faafoi-apologises-for-promising-to-speed-things-up-for-opshop-singer |access-date=6 December 2019 |work=Stuff |date=6 December 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231005125806/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/118000681/minister-kris-faafoi-apologises-for-promising-to-speed-things-up-for-opshop-singer|archive-date=5 October 2023|url-status=live}}

In early April 2020, Health Minister David Clark drew widespread criticism when he flouted the level four lockdown restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic in New Zealand on two occasions. This included driving two kilometres away from his home in Dunedin to ride a mountain bike trail and later driving his family 20 kilometres to a Dunedin beach for a family outing during the first week of the lockdown. After admitting to the two incidents on separate occasions, Clark offered his resignation as Health Minister to Ardern. Ardern declined to accept his resignation but stripped him of his Associate Finance Ministerial portfolio and demoted him to the bottom of Labour's Cabinet list.{{cite news |last1=Manch |first1=Thomas |last2=Cooke |first2=Henry |title=Health Minister drives to local park to ride his mountain bike, amid coronavirus lockdown |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/coronavirus/120780372/health-minister-drives-to-local-park-to-ride-his-mountain-bike-amid-coronavirus-lockdown |access-date=4 April 2020 |work=Stuff |date=2 April 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240412094232/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/coronavirus/120780372/health-minister-drives-to-local-park-to-ride-his-mountain-bike-amid-coronavirus-lockdown|archive-date=12 April 2024|url-status=live}}{{cite news |title=David Clark offers to resign after revealing he took a trip to beach during Covid-19 lockdown |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/413617/david-clark-offers-to-resign-after-revealing-he-took-a-trip-to-beach-during-covid-19-lockdown |access-date=7 April 2020 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=7 April 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200407052511/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/413617/david-clark-offers-to-resign-after-revealing-he-took-a-trip-to-beach-during-covid-19-lockdown|archive-date=7 April 2020}}

However, Clark subsequently resigned on 2 July,{{cite news|last=Patterson|first=Jane|url= https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/300048009/resigned-david-clark-bows-to-inevitability |title= Resigned David Clark bows to inevitability |publisher=Stuff |date= 2 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806082057/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/300048009/resigned-david-clark-bows-to-inevitability|archive-date=6 August 2020}} and was replaced in Health by Chris Hipkins{{cite news|last=Malpass|first=Luke|url= https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/opinion/122062810/chris-hipkins-stamps-his-newfound-authority-on-health |title= Chris Hipkins stamps his newfound-authority on Health |work=Stuff |date= 7 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200801073656/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/opinion/122062810/chris-hipkins-stamps-his-newfound-authority-on-health|archive-date=1 August 2020}} while Housing Minister Megan Woods assumed responsibility for Border Management.{{cite news|url= https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/300038167/housing-minister-megan-woods-taking-on-responsibility-for-border-management |title= Housing Minister Megan Woods taking on responsibility for border management |work=Stuff |date=19 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806082643/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/300038167/housing-minister-megan-woods-taking-on-responsibility-for-border-management|archive-date=6 August 2020}}

On 27 August 2020, Associate Finance Minister Shaw attracted criticism from the opposition National Party's education spokesperson Nicola Willis, school principals, teachers unions' and several members of his own Green Party after he allocated NZ$11.7 million from the Government's $3 billion COVID-19 recovery fund to the private "Green School New Zealand" in Taranaki. This funding boost violated the Green Party's own policy of private schools receiving state funds. Shaw had defended the decision, claiming it would have created 200 jobs and boosted the local economy. The Education Minister Chris Hipkins stated that he would not have prioritised funding for the private school and sympathised with state schools' dissatisfaction with Shaw's decision.{{cite news |last1=McCulloch |first1=Craig |title=Critics pile on Green private school funding boost |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/424605/critics-pile-on-green-private-school-funding-boost |access-date=27 August 2020 |work=Radio New Zealand |date=27 August 2020|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200827121626/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/424605/critics-pile-on-green-private-school-funding-boost|archive-date=27 August 2020}} Following considerable criticism, Shaw apologised for approving the funding of the Green School, describing it as "an error of judgment" on 1 September. Representatives of the school have reportedly approach the Crown to convert part or all off the Government's grant into a loan.{{cite news |last1=Coughlan |first1=Thomas |title=James Shaw calls Green School funding 'an error of judgment' as he searches for a solution |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/300096758/james-shaw-calls-green-school-funding-an-error-of-judgment-as-he-searches-for-a-solution |access-date=1 September 2020 |work=Stuff |date=1 September 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200901040810/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/300096758/james-shaw-calls-green-school-funding-an-error-of-judgment-as-he-searches-for-a-solution |archive-date=1 September 2020|url-status=live}} On 2 November, it was reported that Michael and Rachel Perrett, the owners of the Green School, had reached a settlement for the Government's NZ$11.7 million grant to be converted into a loan; a development that was welcomed by local principals.{{cite news |title=Green school's $11.7 million grant now a 100 per cent Government loan |url=https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/green-schools-11-7-million-grant-now-100-per-cent-government-loan |access-date=2 November 2020 |work=1News |date=2 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201102233709/https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/green-schools-11-7-million-grant-now-100-per-cent-government-loan |archive-date=2 November 2020|url-status=live}}

In July 2021, the ACT party alleged that the Labour Government had spent $4 million-worth of Parliament's time asking itself questions since the 2020 election, in response to criticism of ACT's use of 15 minutes to ask its leader David Seymour questions about his member's bill, which has been described as "extremely unlikely to ever become law." Ministers being asked questions by their own party's MPs has been a feature of Question Time under successive governments for decades. The Shadow Leader of the House, National MP Chris Bishop, who has been critical of the use of "patsy questions" in the past,{{cite web |title=Motions — Allocation of Oral Questions—Leave Declined |url=https://www.parliament.nz/en/pb/hansard-debates/rhr/document/HansS_20210318_051645000/bishop-chris-mallard-trevor |website=Hansard |publisher=New Zealand Parliament |access-date=9 July 2021 |date=18 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231005130803/https://www.parliament.nz/en/pb/hansard-debates/rhr/document/HansS_20210318_051645000/bishop-chris-mallard-trevor|archive-date=5 October 2023|url-status=live}} said that Seymour was showing "remarkable hutzpah" in complaining about the practice the day after making use of it himself.{{cite news |last1=Cooke |first1=Henry |title=Patsies in Parliament: MPs snipe over pretty pointless questions, Government defends practice as ACT leader alleges $4.3m cost |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/300352075/patsies-in-parliament-mps-snipe-over-pretty-pointless-questions-government-defends-practice-as-act-leader-alleges-43m-cost |access-date=9 July 2021 |publisher=Stuff |date=7 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231005125712/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/300352075/patsies-in-parliament-mps-snipe-over-pretty-pointless-questions-government-defends-practice-as-act-leader-alleges-43m-cost|archive-date=5 October 2023|url-status=live}}{{cite news |last1=Lynch |first1=Jenna |title=Government has chewed up $4 million of Parliament's time asking itself questions |url=https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2021/07/government-has-chewed-up-4-million-of-parliament-s-time-asking-itself-questions.html |access-date=9 July 2021 |work=Newshub |date=7 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240414032148/https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2021/07/government-has-chewed-up-4-million-of-parliament-s-time-asking-itself-questions.html|archive-date=14 April 2024|url-status=dead}}

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{{Sixth Labour Government of New Zealand}}

{{Governments of New Zealand}}

{{Jacinda Ardern}}

{{Chris Hipkins}}

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Category:2017 establishments in New Zealand

Category:2023 disestablishments in New Zealand

Category:Cabinets established in 2017

Category:Cabinets disestablished in 2023

Category:2010s in New Zealand

Category:2020s in New Zealand

Labour 6

Category:Coalition governments

Category:Ministries of Elizabeth II

Category:Ministries of Charles III

Category:New Zealand First

Government 6

Category:Green Party of Aotearoa New Zealand

Category:Jacinda Ardern

Category:Chris Hipkins