CPAG calls for child wellbeing to be a 100-day priority for next government

Aotearoa is seeing child poverty return to the forefront of the political agenda as the country prepares for the 2026 election. The Child Poverty Action Group (CPAG) has issued a call for urgent action, stating that the current poverty rates experienced by tamariki are the result of deliberate political decisions rather than an inevitability. Speaking on the issue, CPAG spokesperson Isaac Gunson highlighted that child poverty figures in New Zealand reflect the choices made by successive governments regarding housing, income assistance, and welfare support. While previous administrations under both Labour and National have seen periods of progress in reducing poverty, Gunson noted that material hardship remains high for many children. The organisation argues that while the Child Poverty Reduction Act set ambitious targets—including a goal to halve child poverty by 2028—the current policy settings are falling short of what is required to meet these legislative commitments. Rising living costs and housing pressures continue to impact families, leaving many without the necessary resources for a healthy start in life. CPAG is now calling on the next government to make child wellbeing an immediate focus during its first 100 days in office. The group’s key priorities include increasing income support for low-income families and improving housing affordability. They argue that for real change to occur, child poverty must be treated as a long-term national priority that transcends short-term political cycles. As election campaigning intensifies, the group is encouraging voters to scrutinise party policies to ensure they provide adequate support for whānau and children. Radio Waatea, reporting from Ngā Whare Waatea marae in Māngere, notes that the decisions made following the election will determine the future trajectory of child poverty in Aotearoa. According to CPAG, the challenge can be overcome if future governments choose to prioritise children's needs in their core policy frameworks.