National’s push for a social media ban for under-16s has produced a surprising possibility in New Zealand politics.

After struggling to secure support from parts of its own coalition, National has increasingly looked to Labour to help advance the policy. The politics are unusual.

In an era of growing polarisation, both major parties appear broadly aligned on restricting young people’s access to social media, even as they disagree on many other issues.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has repeatedly sought bipartisan backing, while Labour leader Chris Hipkins has signalled openness to an Australian-style approach.

Yet the more interesting political story may lie elsewhere. If a ban moves forward, opposition is unlikely to divide neatly along left-right lines. Instead, it may draw together an unusual collection of critics who rarely find themselves in agreement.

The Act Party has raised concerns about privacy, age verification and government overreach. The Green party has focused on unequal effects, particularly for young people who rely on online spaces for community, information and support.

These unusual alliances reflect a fault line that cuts across the traditional left-right divide: between policies designed for the majority and concerns about what those policies overlook.

Who does a social........

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