Hundreds of supporters are anticipated to gather at the forecourt of New Zealand Parliament on Wednesday, as a persistent campaign for visa-free travel for certain Pacific nationals approaches a significant political moment. The initiative, which advocates for eligible Pacific visitors to receive a three-month visitor visa upon arrival in New Zealand, has amassed nearly 50,000 signatures.
The petition will be officially presented to Winston Peters, leader of New Zealand First, who is expected to reveal his party’s stance following the submission. Former National MP Anae Arthur Anae spearheads the campaign, emphasizing that the current visa conditions create undue hardship for Pacific families, particularly during times of funerals, medical emergencies, and important cultural gatherings. In an interview with Pacific Mornings, Anae asserted, “This can’t continue forever. It has to be fixed and I want to fix it now,” indicating a sense of urgency in addressing the issue.
This upcoming presentation is pivotal as it transitions the focus from merely public advocacy to a critical test of coalition politics. Given New Zealand First’s role as a key partner in the government, their response could significantly influence whether the proposal gains momentum or falters.
Reactions from coalition partners have varied. ACT leader David Seymour has expressed sympathy for the proposition, acknowledging the close ties New Zealand shares with Pacific nations. However, he categorized visa-free access as a matter of assessing risk and compliance, emphasizing that any changes would depend on visitors adhering to the rules and returning home.
Seymour refuted claims of unfair barriers faced by Pacific peoples, asserting that Immigration New Zealand prioritizes urgent cases like funerals and medical emergencies. While he recognized that individual experiences may differ, his position reflects a cautious approach to reforms.
On the other hand, National Party members have yet to formally review the petition. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon mentioned changes made last April that facilitated travel for some Pacific nationals, which has been interpreted as reluctance from his party to commit to further reforms at this juncture.
Labour, in opposition, has adopted a careful but receptive posture toward the initiative. Pacific Peoples spokesperson Carmel Sepuloni stated that the party is “certainly open” to reevaluating the existing visa arrangements, highlighting ongoing discussions that will take place within the caucus before a definitive stance is established.
The Green Party is the sole faction to openly support the petition. MP Teanau Tuiono expressed that New Zealand’s visa policies do not align with its identity as a Pacific nation. He highlighted previous petitions, including those calling for an overstayers’ amnesty, during which discussions in select committees broached the potential of visa-waiver access as a solution. Tuiono pointed out the inconsistency in visa access, questioning why nations like Israel and Mexico enjoy such privileges while neighboring countries do not.
The formal presentation of the petition at Parliament is scheduled for midday on February 11. The potential for policy reform now hinges on the willingness of the government, particularly New Zealand First, to advance the issue. This pivotal moment reflects a broader commitment to strengthen ties within the Pacific community and could herald an evolution in New Zealand’s visa policy approach.
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