Shane Jones's use of 'matua' prompts RNZ debate about respect

The Panel distinguishes an affectionate Māori term for elders from a politician claiming that standing for himself.

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RNZ Story of November 7, 2026Trari Newsroom

Why this story? One of RNZ's most watched videos since yesterday, with 7,131 views.

Has New Zealand agreed to call Shane Jones 'matua'? | RNZ

When Shane Jones calls himself "matua", is he using a familiar term of respect or claiming authority that others should confer? An RNZ panel excerpt puts that distinction at the centre of a discussion about language, age and political conduct.

The clip shows Jones, New Zealand First's deputy leader, repeatedly referring to himself using the term, including saying that elders must correct younger people. One panellist objects to the third-person delivery and argues that Jones should not talk down to younger politicians such as Te Pāti Māori MP Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke.

The other panellist offers a cultural distinction: in te ao Māori, she routinely calls older people "matua" as an expression of endearment and respect. She suggests that the reaction reflects a cultural clash in politics.

Her fellow panellist draws the line at who supplies the description. Addressing an elder respectfully, he argues, is different from a politician bestowing that respect on himself.

The excerpt drew roughly 7,100 views since yesterday, the most among RNZ's new uploads. Unlike the broadcaster-bias debate footage featured in RNZ's earlier Jones upload, this discussion centres on how he addresses others and describes himself.

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