Social Development Political Panel 2026

New Zealanders everywhere are feeling the impact of the rising cost of living, high unemployment and low incomes, with too many families struggling to get ahead.  

This critical panel, hosted by the New Zealand Council of Christian Social Services and the Social Policy and Parliamentary Unit of the Salvation Army, will provide an opportunity to hear directly from political leaders their priorities and vision for social development in New Zealand including our welfare system, employment and training supports and working with the community sector.   

Social development spokespeople from across the political spectrum have been invited to participate. There will be a number of pre-prepared questions and the opportunity for audience questions.   

Panel line-up:  

·                     National: Hon. Louise Upston- spokesperson and current Minister for Social Development and Employment

·                     Labour: Hon. Willow-Jean Prime- spokesperson for social development and employment

·                     Green: Ricardo Menéndez March- spokesperson for social development and employment

·                     New Zealand First: Jamie Arbuckle- spokesperson for social development

·                     Opportunity Party: Romeo Tevaga- spokesperson for social investment

Act has declined to participate