Bryce Edwards: NZ First’s court trial shows the need for political finance reform

The New Zealand First donations scandal trial began in the High Court this week. And it’s already showing why the political finance laws in this country need a significant overhaul.

The trial is the outcome of a high-profile scandal that unfolded in the 2020 election year, when documents were made public showing that over years wealthy individuals and businesses had been making large donations to support the New Zealand First party, but these had not been disclosed to the public. It was revealed that the money had actually been funnelled into an entity that was legally separate to the party, called the New Zealand First Foundation.

The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) charged two men, who currently have name suppression, with offenses under the Crimes Act. The trial started in the High Court on Tuesday, and is expected to go for about six weeks. This landmark court case is throwing up three reasons we need urgent reform of the laws around donations to politicians.

Political Roundup: NZ First scandal raises integrity issues for the Government

There are many electoral and political questions arising out of the current NZ First donations scandal. Will the imbroglio tarnish the reputation and popularity of Winston Peters and his party? Or will Peters and his colleagues be exonerated, allowing NZ First to climb back up the moral and polling ladder for the next election?

But the big political questions are about its impact on the Government’s credibility and popularity. And is Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern adequately dealing with the matter?