Photo: RNZLabour leader Chris Hipkins says he did consider his future in politics after his ex-wife levelled claims at him on social media, but he remains "absolutely committed" to staying on. Hipkins appeared on a suite of morning media shows on Wednesday - including Morning Report - where he again flatly denied all the claims, but said he would not be litigating them in public for the sake of his children. The claims are not criminal and relate to a lack of support for his ex-wife Jade Paul during and after their relationship. Speaking on Morning Report, Hipkins acknowledged he had considered stepping down, noting the impact on his family. "Social media certainly has emboldened a lot of people, and, you know, we have a virtual vigilante approach on social media that anybody in a public profile role now has to contend with.

Source: Otago Daily Times March 17, 2026 20:41 UTC