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Peters unimpressed with new 'disgruntled pensioners' party

Author
Newstalk ZB Staff,
Publish Date
Tue, 7 Jun 2016, 11:24AM
New Zealand First leader Winston Peters (Getty Images)
New Zealand First leader Winston Peters (Getty Images)

Peters unimpressed with new 'disgruntled pensioners' party

Author
Newstalk ZB Staff,
Publish Date
Tue, 7 Jun 2016, 11:24AM

UPDATED 6.55PM: A new political party has formed to represent older New Zealanders, saying the Government is showing no interest in senior issues.

The New Zealand Seniors Party plans to register as an official party and will run candidates in the 2017 election.

It was formed by a group of "disgruntled pensioners" in Wellington but its executive is also made up of people from Auckland, Christchurch and the provinces.

The party said seniors needed more meaningful representation in Parliament.

A key part of its platform would be fighting the "unfair" deduction of overseas pensions from New Zealand Superannuation.

"Today's seniors are tired of being ignored and dictated to by politicians, government departments and their overpaid staff," the party said.

"They are not willing to remain invisible. They are educated and bring a lifetime of experience and knowledge to the table, and they are certainly capable of taking an active role in the running of their own country."

The party is now seeking members.

Winston Peters, leader of New Zealand First which has traditionally been the darling political force of superannuitants, has disparaged the move.

"If you've got a few that think they can go somewhere else or start a party and waste their supporter's money, that's their business," Peters said.

"Setting up a party with thirteen people? I can't believe you're taking this seriously."

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