RNZ and NZ Media Cover Controversy Over Jones’ ‘Butter Chicken Tsunami’ Remark, Immigration Views, and India FTA Debate

Kiwis’ views on immigration are ‘hardening very fast’ A recent survey by Massey University has revealed a significant shift in Latest Zealanders’ attitudes toward immigration, with researchers describing the change as a rapid “hardening” of public opinion. The findings, based on a nationally representative poll conducted in early 2025, show that a growing majority of respondents now support stricter immigration controls, citing concerns over housing pressure, infrastructure strain and cultural integration. According to the Massey University research, 62% of participants agreed that immigration levels should be reduced, up from 48% in the same survey conducted just two years prior. The increase was particularly pronounced among respondents aged 35 to 54, with 68% in that demographic favouring tighter controls. Researchers noted that the shift coincided with heightened public debate over the government’s immigration settings following the post-pandemic rebound in arrivals. The survey results arrive amid ongoing political discussion about New Zealand’s immigration policy, particularly in relation to the proposed free trade agreement with India. While the Labour-led government has signalled its intention to proceed with the India FTA, it has also acknowledged public sensitivity around migration flows from South Asia. Trade Minister Damien O’Connor stated in a recent press briefing that the agreement would include “carefully calibrated” provisions on the movement of professionals, emphasizing that it would not lead to an unrestricted influx of workers. O’Connor added that the government remains committed to monitoring the social and economic impacts of any increased migration under the deal, and that officials are working with the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment to assess potential pressures on regional services. He declined to speculate on exact numbers, noting that final figures would depend on industry demand and visa processing timelines. Opposition parties have seized on the Massey findings to argue that the government is out of step with public sentiment. National Party spokesperson Nicola Willis said in a parliamentary debate that the survey “confirms what many New Zealanders are feeling — that the pace of change has develop into overwhelming.” She called for a pause on new trade-driven migration commitments until local communities have had time to adjust. Meanwhile, business groups have expressed confidence that the India FTA will proceed without major disruption to domestic labour markets. The Employers and Manufacturers Association (EMA) stated in a submission to the Foreign Affairs Select Committee that historical data shows skilled migration under trade agreements tends to fill specific labour shortages rather than displace local workers. The group urged policymakers to focus on upskilling domestic talent alongside targeted international recruitment. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade has not released an official timeline for the ratification of the India FTA, but officials confirmed that negotiations are in the final stages. A senior MFAT advisor, speaking on condition of anonymity, said that legal review of the text is underway and that signing could occur mid-year, subject to Cabinet approval and iwi consultation. As public opinion continues to shift, the government faces mounting pressure to balance its trade ambitions with domestic expectations around immigration control. The Massey University survey is expected to inform upcoming policy reviews, though no formal commitment to adjust immigration settings has been made by ministers to date.