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Public outcry as MPs defend use of taxpayer-funded entitlements

Author
Newstalk ZB,
Publish Date
Tue, 9 Jun 2026, 1:47pm
Photo / Mark Mitchell
Photo / Mark Mitchell

Public outcry over the entitlements used by Members of Parliament is the only thing that will get them changed, a political analyst says. 

Labour Leader Chris Hipkins has come under fire for using a generous publicly funded private superannuation scheme to pay off the mortgage of his family holiday home, saying that ultimately, it’s his money.  

Other MPs have also been criticised for claiming the accommodation allowance and using it on properties they already own. 

Bryce Edwards told Kerre Woodham the best thing about the situation is that is has sparked public debate and put the ball in politicians’ court. 

He says it’s great the public is taking an interest and that they’re angry, as the only way this will change is if politicians realise the public thinks something is wrong here. 

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