Labour Party Conference: Key Issues and Decisions

The Labour Party’s annual conference in Christchurch saw the party discuss several key issues, including tax reform, economic growth, and public services. In this article, we will examine the major decisions made by the party and the implications for the future.

**Tax Reform**

Tax was a major focus of the conference, with many members calling for higher taxes to fund public services. The Taxpayers Union held a small demonstration outside the conference, with signs pointing inside, saying ‘Higher taxes this way’.

Labour Party leader Chris Hipkins said that any tax policy changes had to be compatible with the party’s broader approach to growing the economy, creating good, well-paying jobs and funding public services. He rejected the notion that his party was too internally focused, despite warning members on Friday that winning internal debates was not what mattered most.

Following a vote on Saturday, both a wealth tax and a capital gains tax were now on the table for the policy team to progress. However, no announcements would be made this weekend, with Hipkins saying he wanted to get the details right.

**Economic Growth**

The Labour Party has committed to growing the economy and creating good, well-paying jobs. However, the party is also aware that it needs to balance its commitment to public services with its desire to control inflation and keep prices low.

Hipkins said that any economic growth strategy had to take into account the need to fund public services and protect the most vulnerable members of society. He rejected the notion that his party was too focused on taxing high-income earners, saying instead that it was about creating a more inclusive economy that benefited everyone.

**Public Services**

The Labour Party has committed to funding public services, including healthcare, education and infrastructure. However, the party is also aware that it needs to balance its commitment to these services with its desire to control inflation and keep prices low.

Hipkins said that any public service decision had to take into account the need to protect the most vulnerable members of society. He rejected the notion that his party was too focused on spending money, saying instead that it was about investing in the future of New Zealanders.

**Conclusion**

The Labour Party’s annual conference in Christchurch saw the party discuss several key issues, including tax reform, economic growth and public services. While no major announcements were made this weekend, the party is clear about its priorities for the future. With a focus on creating an inclusive economy that benefits everyone, Labour is well-positioned to win the 2026 election.

Key decisions made at the conference include:

* Both a wealth tax and a capital gains tax are now on the table for the policy team to progress
* No announcements will be made this weekend about any major tax reforms
* The party is committed to growing the economy and creating good, well-paying jobs
* Public services, including healthcare, education and infrastructure, will continue to be a priority