PILLAR Calls for Transparency on Foreign Influence in New Zealand Politics
MEDIA RELEASE | 04 NOVEMBER 2025 | FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PILLAR Calls for Transparency on Foreign Influence in New Zealand Politics
At PILLAR, we’re calling for a serious national conversation about foreign interference in New Zealand’s political system.
Following the Chinese Ambassador’s letter to MPs and the latest NZSIS threat report, alarm bells should be ringing in Parliament. Instead, there’s been silence on the clear and ongoing influence operating within our borders.
The Ambassador’s claim that it was “inappropriate” for MPs to attend Taiwan’s National Day event in Wellington is unacceptable. Who our MPs meet with is New Zealand’s business alone. Parliament is sovereign, and in a democracy, elected representatives must be free to act independently, something the Ambassador should respect.
“When former prime ministers, members of parliament, and minor party leaders show concerning ties to the Chinese Communist Party, New Zealanders deserve transparency,” said Nick Hanne, PILLAR Co-Founder. “Our sovereignty is not for sale.”
PILLAR is calling for, and will lead the fight, for a public register requiring all ministers and government-affiliated businesses to disclose any formal or financial ties to China. Similar systems exist for nations like Russia, Iran, and North Korea, yet China continues to enjoy political access with little scrutiny.
“There are only a handful of voices left willing to stand up to foreign pressure,” said Hanne. “Every minister must reject intimidation and defend New Zealand’s independence and integrity.”
Trade cannot excuse silence on human-rights abuses or political manipulation. New Zealand must remain a champion for civil liberties, democracy, and human rights — both at home and abroad.
“The public deserves to know whether our political decisions are shaped by coercion or appeasement to the CCP,” Hanne said. “Sunlight is the best defence against corruption and compromise.”
ENDS
Media contact: Nick Hanne, nick@nzpillar.com