Today's speech is Christopher Luxon's first public appearance following the summer break. Photo: RNZPrime Minister Christopher Luxon will outline his plan for the year ahead and New Zealand's future in a State of the Nation speech in Auckland today. NZ First immediately signalled its disapproval of the deal, and Luxon will likely speak today about maintaining a stable coalition with a focus on domestic affairs. There are no major policy announcements expected in the annual scene-setting speech, and the election date will not be revealed today. Later in the week, political parties will gather at Rātana, near Whanganui, to celebrate the birthday of Rātana Church founder Tahupotiki Wiremu Rātana and engage with Māori leaders.

Source: Otago Daily Times January 18, 2026 21:38 UTC