Christopher Luxon defends use of Defence Force flight for travel

Wednesday 5 August 2026 · 2 outlets · 2 reports · updated Wed 5 Aug, 3:43pm

In this story Christopher Luxon, Labour Party, National Party, Air New Zealand, New Zealand Defence Force, Royal New Zealand Air Force

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon used a New Zealand Defence Force plane to travel from Whanganui to Auckland following a National Party fundraiser. He defended the decision by citing his busy schedule, while Labour accused him of using the service for campaigning purposes.

How they headlined it

1:21pm3:43pm

1. NZ HeraldWed 5 Aug, 1:21pm

   Christopher Luxon took Defence Force flight home after National Party fundraiser (opens in new tab)

2. 1News via RNZWed 5 Aug, 3:43pm

   Luxon defends using Air Force flight to attend a National fundraiser (opens in new tab)