Luxon Supports Fast-Tracking Supermarkets and Defends 'Brain Drain' Data

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has expressed strong support for fast-tracking supermarket developments and defended recent statistics on 'brain drain' during a recent interview on Newstalk ZB.

Speaking live on the Mike Hosking Breakfast show, Luxon shared his thoughts on a range of issues, including economic challenges, infrastructure planning, and international education strategies. He emphasized that the government is working hard to address the country's biggest recession since 1991, stating, It’s blimmin’ hard work. Yeah, we have to face some tough decisions, but we’re doing that well.

One of the key topics discussed was the proposal to fast-track supermarket developments. Luxon said, From day one, [Chris] Bishop and [Shane] Jones are the guys that have put in place fast-track in planning laws and infrastructure, and they got going with it. He also highlighted that Deputy Prime Minister Nicola Willis has been actively considering the fast-track approach for supermarkets, noting, I don’t want to get ahead of myself, because she has a process she’s following.

Regarding recent statistics on 'brain drain,' Luxon defended the data by putting it in context, Go back and look at the GFC, there were six years there where the numbers were higher. It just underscores why people go to Australia. Because they think they’ll make more income. We’ve got to make sure they can earn more income here in New Zealand.

Luxon also touched on the government’s efforts to reduce the use of road cones around roadworks, suggesting a risk-based approach for local councils, which would be tied to central government funding. He noted that the New Zealand Transport Agency has already reduced its spending on road cones.

Additionally, the government has outlined plans to double the international student sector, aiming to grow it to a $7.2 billion industry by 2034. Under the new International Education Going for Growth Plan, eligible student visa holders will be allowed to work 25 hours per week, up from the current 20. The plan also includes increasing student enrollments from 83,700 in 2024 to 119,000 by 2034.

Students on approved exchange or study abroad programs will also be eligible to work, and the government plans to investigate introducing a short-term work visa for up to six months for those who don’t qualify for employment after completing their studies.