New Zealand Sovereignty Party: History and Political Platform
The New Zealand Sovereignty Party is a political entity established to advocate for specific legislative changes and social protections within New Zealand. Founded in 2010 by Tony Corbett, a businessman from Southland, the party emerged with a platform focused on repealing certain government mandates and protecting public assets.
Key Facts
- Founder: Tony Corbett (Southland businessman).
- Founded: 2010.
- Core Goals: Repeal of the 2007 anti-smacking law and the New Zealand Emissions Trading Scheme.
- Social Stance: Support for free dental care for school children.
- Environmental/Economic Stance: Opposition to privatization and mining in national parks.
Political Platform and Advocacy
The party's agenda combined social welfare with a desire to roll back specific environmental and legal regulations. Central to their platform was the repeal of the New Zealand Emissions Trading Scheme (a market-based approach to controlling greenhouse gas emissions) and the 2007 anti-smacking law.
Beyond legislative repeals, the party championed public health by supporting free dental care for children attending school. They also maintained a firm stance against the privatization of state assets and the practice of mining within national parks to preserve natural landscapes.
Electoral History and Funding
Leading up to the 2011 general election, the party sought official recognition and financial support. In June 2011, they were conditionally awarded $20,000 in broadcasting funding to help communicate their message to the public. On October 19, the party officially registered its logo with the Electoral Commission.
During the 2011 election, the party fielded two candidates: founder Tony Corbett in the Clutha-Southland electorate and Robert Piriniha Wilson in Te Tai Hauāuru. Together, these candidates received a total of 248 votes. Following this result, the party did not stand any candidates in the 2014 election.
Recent Activity
After a period of inactivity in general elections, Tony Corbett returned to the political stage for the 2023 general election. He contested the Upper Harbour electorate running under the New Zealand Sovereignty Party banner.
Party Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Founder | Tony Corbett |
| Year Established | 2010 |
| 2011 Candidates | Tony Corbett, Robert Piriniha Wilson |
| 2011 Total Votes | 248 |
| 2023 Candidate | Tony Corbett (Upper Harbour) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded the New Zealand Sovereignty Party?
The party was founded in 2010 by Tony Corbett, a businessman from the Southland region.
What were the party's primary legislative goals?
The party advocated for the repeal of the New Zealand Emissions Trading Scheme and the 2007 anti-smacking law.
What is the party's stance on the environment and public assets?
The New Zealand Sovereignty Party opposes the privatization of assets and is against mining activities within national parks.
How did the party perform in the 2011 election?
The party stood two candidates and received a total of 248 votes.
Did the party participate in the 2014 election?
No, the party did not stand any candidates during the 2014 election.
When did Tony Corbett last run for parliament?
Tony Corbett contested the Upper Harbour electorate in the 2023 general election under the New Zealand Sovereignty Party name.