New Zealand First will use its influence on the next coalition Government to buy back our state-owned power companies which are being flogged off by National.

Winston Peters says New Zealand First is committed to buying back the shares at no greater price than paid by the first purchaser.

'State-owned assets rightfully belong to all New Zealanders but National is intent on handing them over to rich foreign investors.

'It is simply lining the pockets of the wealthy by selling off well-performing assets that already provide the Government with extremely healthy dividends.”

Mr Peters says it is only fair to alert potential investors that New Zealand First's intention to buy back the shares will be part of any coalition negotiations.

'As things stand now, the assets will end up in foreign ownership which is an outright attack on our sovereignty. We are committed to repelling that attack.”

Source: NZ First