"Butter Chicken Tsunami": NZ First’s Shane Jones Under Fire for "Distasteful" Indian Trade Remarks

NZ First's Shane Jones faces backlash for "butter chicken tsunami" remarks regarding the India FTA. Community leaders warn of rising racism and social division.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 21, 2026, 4:57 AM EDT

Source: RNZ Pacific

The Breaking Development: Hyperbole vs. Racism

The controversy centers on Jones' public stance against the incoming FTA with India, a deal his party refuses to support.

The Barb: Jones stated he would "never agree to a butter chicken tsunami coming to New Zealand," arguing that increased immigration would "clog roads" and "overwhelm the health system."

The Defense: Challenged by reporters, Jones admitted his colleagues asked him to tone it down but insisted that such metaphors are essential for political debate.

The Response: Prime Minister Christopher Luxon called the comments "unhelpful," while Labour MP Priyanca Radhakrishnan went further, labeling the remarks "outright racism."

Background: A History of Friction