Matua Kahurangi: ACT is defending equal rights for all New Zealanders

This morning, the ACT Party shared a bold message on X, outlining nine key actions they have taken in government to uphold a principle many politicians talk about but few are willing to put into practice: equal rights for all New Zealanders. The post reads, “Fairness is making a comeback. ACT is turning the tide on race-based rules.” and is backed by a clear list of policy achievements.

At a time when identity politics has become increasingly dominant, ACT is making the case for fairness based on need, merit, and individual dignity, rather than race or background.

Here is a closer look at each of the nine initiatives highlighted in ACT’s post and what they mean for the future of New Zealand.

1. Directed public services be delivered based on need,not race

Public services should be allocated to people based on their circumstances, not their ethnicity. ACT’s policy ensures that the most vulnerable New Zealanders receive the help they need, regardless of heritage. This approach avoids special treatment and supports a more inclusive and needs-based system.

2. Ended race-based surgical waitlists

Healthcare must be based on clinical urgency and medical need. By ending race-based prioritisation in surgical waitlists, ACT has taken a stand for equality in our health system. Everyone deserves to be treated according to the seriousness of their condition, not the colour of their skin.

3. Repealed Three Waters

ACT supported the repeal of Three Waters to restore democratic accountability and local control. The policy’s co-governance elements raised concerns about unequal representation. Repealing it returns power to communities and ensures that all residents have the same say in how local water infrastructure is managed.

4. Disestablished Māori Health Authority

The Māori Health Authority created a parallel health structure based on race. ACT believes in a single, high-quality health system for all. Disestablishing the authority helps unify healthcare delivery and focuses on improving outcomes across the board, not through separation but through integration.

5. Ended race-based procurement quotas

Government contracts should be awarded on merit and value for money. ACT ended racial quotas in procurement to make sure all businesses have the same opportunity to compete, regardless of the ethnicity of their owners. This encourages fairness, innovation, and economic growth for everyone.

6. Required eligibility age for bowel cancer screening to be the same for all

Preventive healthcare should be available to everyone on the same basis. ACT standardised the eligibility age for bowel cancer screening to ensure equal access. This removes racial distinctions and guarantees that every New Zealander is treated equally when it comes to early detection and care.

7. Restored local referendums on Māori wards

Democracy means letting communities have their say. ACT reinstated local referendums on Māori wards so that voters can decide how their councils are structured. This move respects local decision-making and ensures that representation is based on consent, not central government decree.

8. Removed race as a consideration in state care placements

Decisions about where children are placed in state care should be based on their best interests. ACT removed race as a factor in these decisions so that the focus is on finding the safest, most supportive environment for each child. This puts children first and upholds the principle of individual care.

9. Reviewing race-based pathways for medical degree

Medical school entry should reflect merit and potential. ACT is reviewing race-based pathways into medical degrees to ensure that selection is based on capability and commitment. This reassures the public that future healthcare professionals are chosen fairly and are held to the same high standards.

One standard for all New Zealanders

ACT’s vision is simple: one standard of citizenship, one rule of law, and equal treatment for all. These reforms are not about ignoring history or undermining identity. They are about rejecting racial division in public policy and embracing a future where fairness and equality come first.

This morning’s post on X was more than a political update. It was a statement of principle, a promise to defend equal rights, and a call to bring New Zealanders together under the values that unite us all.

Matua Kahurangi is just a bloke sharing thoughts on New Zealand and the world beyond. No fluff, just honest takes. He blogs on https://matuakahurangi.com/ where this article was sourced.