Luxon apologises for remarks regarding small business mentality

Tuesday 4 August 2026 · 2 outlets · 2 reports · updated Tue 4 Aug, 7:56am

In this story Christopher Luxon, National Party, Nicola Willis, Simeon Brown, Erica Stanford

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has apologised for describing small firms as having a "parent-child mentality". Senior National Party ministers have defended the Prime Minister, while business leaders in Rotorua have accepted his apology.

How they headlined it

7:48am

1. 1NewsTue 4 Aug, 7:48am

   PM's small business remark caused 'a lot of hurt' - National minister (opens in new tab)

2. NZ HeraldTue 4 Aug, 7:56am

   ‘Obviously the words didn’t come out quite right’ - National MPs arrive at Parliament after Christopher Luxon apology (opens in new tab)