Prime Minister responds to criticism over comments to Rotorua business owners

Saturday 1 August 2026 · 2 outlets · 2 reports · updated Sat 1 Aug, 6:43pm

In this story Christopher Luxon, Prime Minister's Office

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon told Rotorua business owners to "be adult" after being informed of low economic confidence at a chamber event. His office has since defended the remarks, claiming his comments were mischaracterised following accusations that he was out of touch.

How they headlined it

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6am6:43pm

1. NZ HeraldSat 1 Aug, 6:00am

   Prime Minister Christopher Luxon responds to Rotorua business owners’ deflated economic confidence (opens in new tab)

2. StuffSat 1 Aug, 6:43pm

   ‘Be adult’: Prime Minister’s Office hits back at ‘mischaracterisation’ of his comments to business owners (opens in new tab)