National Party leader Christopher Luxon says he doesn't think New Zealand is ready for a referendum on co-governance - at the moment.
But he wouldn't say whether he would rule out a referendum in the future.
Christopher Luxon Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver
Last week ACT leader David Seymour launched a petition for a referendum of co-goverance, saying the Labour Party was "trying to make an unequal society on purpose" with different political rights and duties for Māori.
Seymour says it's a bottom-line for the party.
Luxon yesterday said no to the referendum, though he did leave the door slightly ajar.
Speaking to Morning Report today, Luxon doubled-down on that stance.
"Our view is that we're not ready for a referendum now, we need to actually do what Kelvin Davis said, which is actually understand what we're talking about in respect to co-governance," he said.
"The great thing about New Zealand on constitutional issues, as a government you make your case, you spend your political capital, you take the people with you and if you think about things like Treaty settlements, we've done that job really well and the vast majority of New Zealanders feel very proud about that.
He said a conversation needs to be had about what co-governance actually means as there were a range of views on that.
The government needs to be really up front and honest about what their plans are for co-governance in the public sector, Luxon said.
It is something he has "a real problem with" and believes it builds massive bureaucracy.
"I don't support two systems, we're ruthlessly focused on outcomes and making sure every New Zealander, Māori, non-Māori can flourish in this place..."
If in power, National would dismantle the yet to be established Māori health authority.
Luxon said there needs to be better public service health targets.
"We believe we can have one system, and we've got to continue to evolve it and we've got to continue to innovate, that's what good systems, whether they're healthcare, education, a whole range of systems in New Zealand that we have..." he said.
"The only thing we're interested in this country is outcomes."
Australia's 501 immigration category
The National Party leader says there's little New Zealand can do if Australia decides to deport more people here.
Australia's Senate is expected to debate broadening the 501 immigration category today.
Luxon says the government must be direct with its Australian counterpart.
"We need to be really straight up and direct about our frustration and disappointment and displeasure with that situation and we have a friendly relationship with Australia. Good friends can have real conversations with each other and I think that conversation's been happening and it should be very direct and very clear."
We need to get tougher on gangs, he said.
