Corruption report highlights conflicts of interest at the heart of the Luxon government – Russel Norman

New Zealand has slipped again in Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index, prompting renewed debate over lobbying transparency and political donations under the Luxon Government.

New Zealand Slips in Corruption Rankings

Greenpeace says a new report in which New Zealand has slipped further down the corruption rankings highlights the conflicts of interest at the heart of the Luxon government.

Transparency International’s Latest Findings

It follows a report by Transparency International in which New Zealand’s Corruption Perceptions Index score has fallen by two points for the fourth consecutive year.

“It’s not surprising that this report has picked up on a lack of transparency over lobbying and political donations,” says Greenpeace Aotearoa Executive Director Dr Russel Norman.

What is the Corruption Perceptions Index?

• Published annually by Transparency International

• Ranks countries based on perceived public sector corruption

• Scores range from 0 (highly corrupt) to 100 (very clean)

• New Zealand’s score has declined for four consecutive years

Allegations of Conflict of Interest

“There is a profound conflict of interest at the heart of this Government and it is this: Chris Bishop is the Minister responsible for deciding which businesses get access to the fast-track process, AND he’s also National’s Campaign Committee Chair responsible for drumming up campaign donations.

“Bishop makes decisions about fast-tracking projects, and these projects have, so far, been linked to entities and individuals which have donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to National, ACT and New Zealand First.” Dr Norman says this represents a clear conflict of interest at the heart of the Luxon government and it’s no wonder that New Zealand’s reputation is continuing its slide.

Political Donations and Public Trust

“Such donations will, as the report says, chip away at transparency and integrity at the heart of public life and therefore public trust in government.”

As Election 2026 approaches, transparency, lobbying reform and political donations are likely to become central issues in the debate over trust in government.