Media Release
02 October 2003
NZ First - The Real Family
New Zealand First has congratulated the National Party on belatedly recognizing, in 2003, that there are families in New
Zealand.
“Any party that cares about the welfare of children must celebrate and support committed, enduring family relationships.
New Zealand First will continue to fight to protect our social fabric and traditional family values,” said New Zealand
First youth affairs spokesperson, Craig McNair.
“New Zealand First does not support the Government’s legislation for a Families Commission as it fails to define a
family or set out structures which will provide children with a safe environment,” said Mr McNair.
“The Bill introduced by the Government, supported by Peter Dunne and United Future, broadly defines the family as a
group of adults responsible for the upbringing of children. Such a definition allows homosexual and lesbian
relationships to flourish and also supports ‘gang type’ family membership.
“Social Services Minister, Steve Maharey, would have us believe that the two parent family is history. The Government’s
preference is to promote and support diverse family compositions almost to the exclusion of the two parent, married,
family.
“I believe more emphasis needs to be placed on promoting and supporting family structures that are independent and work.
“Unlike National, New Zealand First has always been an advocate of the importance of the family to the future of New
Zealand, it is time for the Government to stop being so PC and ensure that traditional family values are not lost.
ENDS