Call for greater policy influence for Māori following new report on vested-interest lobbying

A significant new report from Victoria University of Wellington is calling for a overhaul of lobbying practices in Aotearoa New Zealand to ensure ordinary communities and Māori have a fair say in government policy. Published on 18 September 2026, the report titled 'Swimming in a Sea of It: A Report on Vested-Interest Lobbying in Aotearoa New Zealand' examines whether wealthy organisations wield disproportionate influence over the nation's decision-makers. Researchers Professor Lisa Marriott and Max Rashbrooke conducted 36 anonymous interviews with a broad spectrum of political figures, including current and former ministers, MPs, and public servants. Their findings suggest that while lobbying is a standard democratic function, 'vested-interest lobbying' creates an uneven playing field. The report notes that groups without large professional networks or significant financial resources, such as iwi, hapū, and community organisations, may enter the policy process at a distinct disadvantage. Key concerns highlighted by the interviewees include the revolving door between political and lobbying roles, and the tendency for lobbying to occur early in the policy development phase—often before the public is aware a topic is under consideration. The researchers identified that government agencies sometimes rely on lobbyists for information rather than independent expertise, further cementing the influence of well-resourced entities. To address these inequities, the report recommends the introduction of a Regulation of Lobbying Act and a public register to track meetings between lobbyists and officials. It also proposes 'cooling-off periods' for former political figures and calls for a stronger public service that provides ordinary citizens with greater opportunities to shape policy. As the 2026 election campaign progresses, the report serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency in ensuring that all voices, particularly those of Māori and local communities, are heard within the halls of power.