Welcome to Democracy Action

We are a not-for-profit incorporated society working to champion the
fundamental importance of democracy & equality of citizenship for all New Zealanders.

Latest news

• Latest from the blog

  The road to Cape Reinga still illegally blocked by Ngāti Kuri

  May 22, 2020

  “It's my customary rights and I’m prepared to knock you out if you pass that gate,” a person blocking access says in a video filmed by Northland MP Matt King. Continue reading

  THE OFFICAL SUPPORT FOR ILLEGAL ROADBLOCKS IS UNTENABLE

  May 08, 2020

  The vigilantes manning the unauthorised roadblocks on public roads have no more legal authority to do so than your neighbour. Despite this, the highest authorities in Government and Police are encouraging these self-appointed groups to stop New Zealanders travelling and to turn them back if, in their inexpert opinion, motorists are breaking travel restrictions.  Continue reading

  Response to illegal roadblocks is "inadequate and unacceptable"

  May 01, 2020

  Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has been called on to step in and provide strong and unequivocal leadership on the continuing and growing proliferation of illegal roadblocks. Democracy Action says that the self-appointed community activists and patched gang members manning the roadblocks have been emboldened by Police inaction on the clear offences. The Police seem to have taken their lead from Minister of Police Stuart Nash’s soft stance. Continue reading

  "It is disgraceful" - Gang members participating in illegal roadblocks

  Apr 21, 2020

  During the COVID-19 epidemic, all New Zealanders are subject to lawful travel restrictions designed to protect public health, and which are enforceable by the police. Those who blatantly flout the restrictions can be arrested. There is however one group which appears to be above the law, and community group Democracy Action is calling on the government to take immediate action against the illegal blockades on public roads. Continue reading

  Influential role for Maori at new Water Services Regulator

  Feb 21, 2020

  Taumata Arowai—the Water Services Regulator Bill, open for public submissions until 4th March, seeks to create a new water regulator - to be called Taumata Arowai. The Bill includes provision for a Maori advisory group to work alongside this new Crown entity. The Maori Advisory Group is another manifestation of the government’s commitment to support agencies to form true partnerships with Māori "by actively facilitating new prototype partnerships between the Crown and Māori", as outlined in a cabinet paper released in July 2019, 'Building Closer Partnerships with Māori'. Continue reading