Finance Minister Nicola Willis defended her "call the dogs off" remark amid protests, sparking debate over protest rights and rhetoric.

Finance Minister Nicola Willis defended using the phrase "call the dogs off" in response to protests outside Foreign Minister Winston Peters’ home, calling it metaphorical political speech and urging critics to avoid overreacting. The comment followed a protest where a window was smashed, leading to an arrest. Willis criticized Greens co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick for not condemning disruptive behavior, while Swarbrick condemned the vandalism but said the protests were legal and necessary, distancing herself from organizing them. Actor Acacia 'O'Connor, who shared Peters’ address online, later expressed regret, claiming the situation was being used as a distraction. Labour’s Megan Woods opposed laws banning protests outside homes, citing concerns about peaceful protest rights, which Willis dismissed as evasive. The debate highlighted tensions over political rhetoric, protest rights, and public safety.