Political parties clash over student debt and tax in student debate
Wednesday 30 September 2026 · 3 outlets · 3 reports · updated In this story Chlöe Swarbrick, Oriini Kaipara
Candidates from various political parties debated student issues at the University of Auckland. The discussion focused on the cost of living and student debt, including a Labour proposal for a 10% debt cut for those not covered by Fees Free.
Key facts
4 facts
- The debate was hosted by the Auckland University Students' Association (AUSA) at the University of Auckland.
- Labour proposes a 10% student debt cut for those not covered by Fees Free.
- NZ First proposes a "dollar-for-dollar" scheme for graduates in critical skill-shortage areas.
- Eligible 18 to 24-year-old voter enrolment is at 61 percent, down from 77 percent previously.
The full story
1 min read · 3 outlets
Political candidates engaged in a heated debate at the Auckland University Students’ Association's final general election debate on Tuesday night. The event, moderated by RNZ's Guyon Espiner, featured representatives from several parties discussing issues such as student debt, the cost of living, and climate change.
Labour MP Shanan Halbert proposed a 10% student debt cut for current and future students not covered by the Fees Free programme. He described the policy as an "incentive and a reward". Act MP Parmjeet Parmar called the proposal "a trap" and argued that graduates should stay in New Zealand because they want to, rather than due to incentives.
The debate included tense exchanges regarding climate policy and the Paris Agreement. Greens co-leader Chloe Swarbrick labelled Langeveld and Parmar "climate cookers" during the discussion. Te Pāti Māori MP Oriini Kaipara advocated for an oil and gas ban and increased investment in renewables.
Students in attendance encouraged their peers to participate in the democratic process despite feelings of political disillusionment. This comes as Electoral Commission figures show only 61 percent of eligible 18 to 24-year-olds were enrolled to vote, a decrease from 77 percent at the previous election.
Where reports differ
- One report describes the atmosphere as 'Colosseum-like' and 'rowdy', while another describes it as 'fiery'.
Compiled from reports by NZ Herald, Stuff and RNZ.
