501 deportees. Trump politics in Australia. Luxon watching closely.

In this high-impact episode of MortgageHQ’s political deep dive series, Craig Stanaway sits down with one of the most unforgettable figures in New Zealand politics — Maurice Williamson. Known for his viral “big gay rainbow” speech, his refusal to sugar-coat truth, and a career that spanned seven ministerial roles across two National-led governments, Williamson brings the kind of political clarity you cannot buy and will not get from the nightly news.

Australia just sent a political shockwave through the region. The rise of Trump-style populism was halted at the ballot box. Peter Dutton, the conservative leader seen by many as Australia’s Trump-adjacent figure, lost his seat. The Labor Party secured a strong mandate. Voters rejected fear politics, shallow slogans, and manufactured outrage. And now everyone in Wellington should be paying attention.

Craig and Maurice break it down with surgical precision. What does this mean for New Zealand’s right-wing coalition? Is Christopher Luxon learning from the Aussie backlash or blindly following the same playbook? Is the 501 deportation strategy a tough-on-crime policy or a diplomatic self-inflicted wound? What happens when our closest neighbour rejects a style of politics we are still quietly flirting with?

This episode is not for the faint-hearted. It is for New Zealanders who want to know what is really going on behind the political headlines. Williamson does not hold back. He names the problems. He calls out the spin. And he makes it clear that what is happening across the Tasman is not just Australia’s business — it is New Zealand’s future.

You will learn why the 501 issue is not just about crime but about credibility. You will hear how Trumpism has quietly influenced parts of New Zealand’s political language and what that could mean for the next election. You will understand why Williamson believes our political system is drifting and what he thinks needs to change before it is too late.

Whether you lean left, right, or somewhere in between, this conversation is essential viewing for anyone who wants to stay ahead of the political curve. It is sharp. It is unfiltered. It is Maurice Williamson in full flight. And it is Craig Stanaway asking the questions most politicians hope never get asked.

Do not skip this. Watch it. Share it. And ask yourself — are we really ready for what is coming?

Learn more: https://mhq.co.nz/press-release/501-deportees-trump-vibes-and-luxon-what-australias-election-just-told-nz/