Luxon Pushes 30-Week Parental Leave | Auckland News

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon is rolling out a bold new policy to extend paid parental leave to 30 weeks — and yes, parents can take it all at once — touting it as a vital investment in families and the nation’s future, even as it comes with a hefty price tag. He’s brushing off Labour’s historical critiques, insisting this is about forward momentum, not past politics. But the timing’s been rocky: ACT has raised eyebrows over comments by a NZ First candidate about a National MP’s leave, which Luxon says he had no way of predicting. Meanwhile, polls show National’s support slipping, potentially costing some veteran MPs their list seats — though some remain optimistic their policies will turn the tide. Analysts warn this could create long-term structural challenges for National’s parliamentary position, even if they hold strong in electorate seats. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/ce1347fdfb145db2