There’s a new online group in New Zealand called The F.U. and it has started right here in Southland.
We’re hesitant to label them ‘anti’ government or right-wing, as we believe that’s not fair. The group only launched last Wednesday, and describes itself as a voice for all New Zealanders.
Former Groundswell NZ member Logan Evans is involved and already The F.U. has 2000 followers.
Describing itself as non-political, the group started the first of many ‘Gumboot Friday’ barbecues outside Labour MP’s offices last week, in both Invercargill and Masterton.
On its Facebook page a video from one of its members explains who the F.U are and what they are about.
They want to leave it up to others to determine what F.U. stands for – it could be Farmers United, Fundamental Understanding, Facts Unlimited, Front Up or perhaps Feeling Understood.
But it is clear from the messaging on the page and the videos from various members, that the group is wanting change in government, and are not happy with the direction New Zealand is going.
The F.U. is encouraging the public to come along to their family-friendly barbecues outside Labour MP offices around New Zealand every Friday at 4pm, and to connect with others.
There will be no protests or signs and group members are hoping their local MP’s will come outside and talk with them.
There are farmers involved but also small business owners posting videos on the Facebook page, with one hairdressing salon owner in Masterton saying her struggle was with keeping people employed, and enabling them to put food on the table.
“Friends and family, we need to unite again. I’m fed up with how my business has been dictated to,” she said.
Carmen represented a truck driving company with her husband, and said their fuel bill had doubled in the past year, and they’ve had to sell their house.
“We question every month whether we should stay in business….the government is the driving force behind this stress and are hell bent on trying to destroy us. They are tyrants,” she said.
Another retired couple spoke about being worried about the elderly in New Zealand and who was going to look after them, as well as their children – 1 of whom was paying $900 a week in rent.
A “humble roofer” from Ekatahune called Mark, likened the government to a fire that was now out of control.
On the live feed from the Invercargill ‘Gumboot Friday’ event, one participant said police asked them what they were doing outside Liz Craig’s MP office.
“We’re celebrating Labour’s achievements,” he answered.