Politics

PM defends using Defence Force plane for National fundraiser and tourism conference

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon used a Defence Force aircraft for a National Party fundraiser and an Air NZ-sponsored tourism conference, drawing Labour criticism.

Skinny McBuntu

The Prime Minister used a Defence Force plane to attend a National Party fundraiser and to travel to an Air New Zealand-sponsored tourism conference. Labour accused him of using the Defence Force as a personal taxi service for campaign purposes. Luxon defended the use of the aircraft, as did former Prime Minister John Key, who said NZDF planes are practical given the demands of the prime ministerial role.

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Coverage across the news outlets we track, as at publication.

What outlets are saying

Stuff

PM took Defence Force plane to Air NZ-sponsored tourism conference

When the prime minister was invited to an Air New Zealand-sponsored tourism conference last year, he decided to fly in a private Air Force plane to get there.

Read the full story at Stuff

NZ Herald

Christopher Luxon took Defence Force flight home after National Party fundraiser

The PM described the fundraiser as a 'meeting' when interviewed.

Read the full story at NZ Herald

1News

Luxon defends using Air Force flight to attend a National fundraiser

Labour on Wednesday accused the Prime Minister of using the Defence Force as a "personal taxi service" for campaigning purposes.

Read the full story at 1News

Newstalk ZB

Sir John Key: former Prime Minister defends Luxon taking Defence Force flight home after National Party fundraiser

A predecessor of Chris Luxon is unconcerned about his non-emergency use of Defence Force aircraft.

Read the full story at Newstalk ZB

NZ Herald

Labour goes on the attack as John Key defends Christopher Luxon’s Defence Force flights

The former Prime Minister said NZDF planes are practical given the role's busy nature.

Read the full story at NZ Herald