Controversial media personality Candace Owens on the set of "Candace" , 13 September, 2021 in Nashville, Tennessee. Photo: AFP/ Getty Images - Jason Davies
The decision to allow a conservative American commentator into the country has been as divisive as the initial ban.
On Thursday, Associate Immigration Minister Chris Penk overturned Immigration New Zealand's ban on Candace Owens entering.
Known for her controversial views - such as downplaying the Holocaust and claiming Muslims started slavery - Owens was barred from visiting Australia in October after announcing a speaking tour there.
That ban meant she was then denied a visa to come to New Zealand.
Chris Penk declined an interview with RNZ, but in a statement said that Owens had requested ministerial intervention.
"Immigration New Zealand originally declined her visa application on the basis of section 15(1)(f) of the Immigration Act following Ms Owens being denied entry to Australia.
"Subsequently, Ms Owens requested intervention from the Associate Minister of Immigration to exercise his discretion and grant her a visa.
"The Minister made his decision after considering representations made to him, including the importance of free speech."
The u-turn on her entering New Zealand has drawn criticism and praise, with the Free Speech Union congratulating the government on the reversal and the Holocaust Centre condemning it.
Holocaust Centre board chair Deborah Hart said Owens would fuel anti-semitism in New Zealand.
"We have a huge increase in anti-semitic incidents in this country and we really don't need someone who espouses anti-semitic rhetoric right now to be visiting and stoke more hatred."
Her message to New Zealanders was that they had a choice.
"You should choose to turn your back on a person who repeats blood libels about Jewish people, just turn your back on her."
Meanwhile, Free Speech Union chief executive Jonathan Ayling said the minister's decision was a win for New Zealanders.
He said it was up to individuals, not the state, to decided who they wanted to listen to and denying Owens entry denied an informed discussion.
"[She] runs controversial perspectives, that's part of her brand.
"As a result of attempts of blocking her from entry, a lot more people have engaged with her content, which is exactly what she's wanting."
Ayling said censorship only played into Owens' hands, and instead encouraged those who didn't agree with her to peacefully protest.
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