Politics

Christopher Luxon's reo Māori lessons cost taxpayers $4150

15:44 pm on 20 December 2023

Photo: RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

The prime minister's office has confirmed his te reo Māori lessons when he was leader of the opposition cost about $4000.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon had this month criticised spending on bonuses for public servants who were proficient in the language, and also criticised spending on lessons in the public sector.

"What I'd just say to you is people are completely free to learn te reo themselves, that's what happens out there in the real world - out there in corporate life, or in any other community life across New Zealand," he said.

However, it later emerged he had received his own lessons in te reo Māori, which had been paid for by the opposition leader's budget, which is publicly funded.

Other National Party MPs also admitted to having lessons paid for by the taxpayer.

Luxon's office on Wednesday confirmed the cost of his lessons was $4150.