Andrew Dickens: I back Defence Force professionals

Early Edition with Ryan Bridge · Feb 22, 2026 · 2m · transcript

If I was asked whether I’d back Defence Force professionals over politicians on Defence protocols and training, I’d back the professionals every time.

ACT and New Zealand First, Winston and David, have asked questions of the Defence Minister Judith Collins on the amount of Māori culture, lore and language which is part of the Defence Force’s preparation for combat.

This is not a new complaint. Questions about Karakia and haka come up from time to time.

Some see this a against the old God, King and country ideal.

But the Defence force has always used Māori tikanga to build cohesiveness.

They…