PM Luxon Skips Rātana to Visit Storm-Ravaged Regions: “Communities Come First”
By Lions Roar News Political Desk
WELLINGTON, NEW ZEALAND (Thursday, January 22, 2026) — Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has made a last-minute decision to withdraw from tomorrow’s annual Rātana celebrations, choosing instead to visit East Coast and Bay of Plenty communities currently reeling from severe weather events.
The Prime Minister personally called Tumuaki Manuao Tamou this afternoon to advise him of the change in plans, as emergency services remain on high alert across several North Island regions.
🌩️ A Shift to the Frontlines
While Rātana is traditionally the unofficial start of the political year, Luxon stated that the unfolding weather crisis requires his immediate presence on the ground.
- Regions in Focus: The PM will be touring the East Coast and Bay of Plenty, following discussions with the mayors of Gisborne, Tauranga, Thames-Coromandel, Hauraki, Whangārei, and the Far North.
- The Message: In a social media post, Luxon emphasized the government’s commitment to the response. “We are standing with these local communities in the response – and we will stand with them in the recovery too,” he said.
- Gratitude: He extended thanks to the NZ Defence Force, local marae, and emergency responders who are currently “putting themselves in harm’s way.”
🏛️ Political Presence at Rātana Pa
Despite the Prime Minister’s absence, the National Party will still have high-level representation at the event.
- National Party: Deputy Leader Nicola Willis and MP Tama Potaka will lead the government’s delegation.
- The Opposition: Labour leader Chris Hipkins is confirmed to attend, alongside representatives from the Greens, New Zealand First, and Te Pāti Māori.
- The Absentee: Per its usual tradition, the ACT Party is not expected to attend.
📜 About the Rātana Celebrations
The annual gathering at Rātana Pā, near Whanganui, marks the birthday of Tahupōtiki Wiremu Rātana (January 25), the founder of the Rātana Church.
For nearly a century, the event has served as a pivotal moment for politicians to engage with Māori leadership and set the tone for the legislative year. The celebrations typically span several days, attracting thousands of followers from across the country.
📊 Storm Response Contacts
| District | Primary Contact for Civil Defence |
| Gisborne / Tairāwhiti | Tairāwhiti Civil Defence |
| Tauranga | Bay of Plenty Civil Defence |
| Coromandel | Thames-Coromandel District Council |
| Northland | Northland Civil Defence |
