New Minister Paul Goldsmith Pledges Growth and Safety for Pasifika Communities

Minister Paul Goldsmith defends the Ministry for Pacific Peoples and details how the government's broader economic and safety agendas aim to uplift Pasifika families.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 30, 2026, 3:32 AM EDT

Source: RNZ Pacific

Economic Strategy and the Rising Tide Approach

The Minister enters the portfolio during a period of significant socio economic pressure for Pacific Islanders in New Zealand. Current data indicates a 12 percent unemployment rate within the community, alongside estimates that nearly one fifth of Pasifika children are living in poverty. Goldsmith’s strategy relies on the principle that a stronger national economy will naturally lift these statistics. He posits that because Pasifika communities are often the most impacted by economic downturns, they stand to gain the most from the government's efforts to curb the cost of living and stimulate market growth.

Addressing the Disparity in Crime and Victimization

Security remains a critical pillar of the new Minister’s agenda, particularly as crime statistics show a concerning trend. While the general population saw a 37 percent decrease in crime victims, Pacific communities experienced an increase of 5000 victims between late 2023 and late 2025. Goldsmith noted that this disparity makes the government’s "safer communities" initiative even more vital for this demographic. By focusing on reducing overall crime rates and incarceration for violent acts, the Minister believes the safety of Pasifika neighborhoods will see a disproportionately positive impact.

The Institutional Future of the Ministry for Pacific Peoples

Despite ongoing political debate regarding the necessity of demographic based agencies, Goldsmith reaffirmed that the Ministry for Pacific Peoples (MPP) will not be abolished during this parliamentary term. He described the Ministry as a "centre of expertise" designed to advise other government sectors on how to engage with the community effectively. While some political factions and business think tanks have suggested merging the MPP into a broader "Ministry for Communities," Goldsmith remains focused on the utility of the expertise rather than the specific administrative structure, ensuring the Pacific voice remains integral to policy discussions.