There's a small political tsunami occurring in New Zealand right now; they're called Advance NZ. This new political party was created by ex-National MP Jamie-Lee Ross but where it found its feet was when they joined forces with the New Zealand Public Party. The latter group merged with Advance NZ so they could be on the ballot for the 2020 general election.
Musician Billy TK Jr is behind NZPP. They're an odd bunch, often holding what may be called fringe beliefs; opposing vaccinations and the 1080 poisoning of pests and so on.
Why the tsunami? COVID-19 and the associated lengthy and damaging lockdowns have fuelled support for this group. People already alienated by the existing power structures and the lockdown has led to a feeling of powerlessness. Into this void strode Advance NZ. Combined with an effective social media campaign, numbers attending meetings, protests, rare but well handled appearances on television, Advance NZ are gaining traction. They could make the 5% threshold, while the Greens and NZ First may be out altogether. If this happens, it'll be a major shift in the NZ political landscape.
The next few weeks will be interesting to watch.
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