New Zealand election remains too close to call before November vote
Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 14 Oct, 18:02 · Archive
National and Labour are tied at 28 per cent in polls ahead of New Zealand's 7 November election.
New Zealand's centre-right National party and centre-left Labour are locked at 28 per cent in polling, their lowest combined level since emerging as the major parties in the 1930s. The election takes place on 7 November. Prime Minister Chris Luxon of National and Labour leader Chris Hipkins both disappointed in the second leaders debate on Wednesday night, hosted by the NZ Herald. A post-debate panel declared the debate a tight draw. Analyst David Letele said the two options 'filled me with no hope', whilst PR expert Trish Sherson said there was 'no X-Factor here'.
The debate centred on economic policy. Luxon admitted to communications blunders as prime minister and claimed he had increased the minimum wage by inflation each year. Hipkins fact-checked him, saying 'No you haven't.' The exchange continued with Luxon arguing 'We don't believe you just legislate it. We actually believe you grow an economy', and Hipkins responding 'You don't grow an economy by paying people poorly.'
The political apathy reflects New Zealand's sluggish economy. The 2026 contest is a re-run of 2023, when Luxon won and formed a three-party coalition, removing the two-term Labour-led government that Hipkins inherited from Jacinda Ardern.
How it is being reported
- Leaders spar as NZ election remains too close to callA back-and-forth on minimum wages lost the second leaders debate for Prime Minister Chris Luxon, according to an influential broadcaster.The West Australian · 14 Oct, 17:37
- Leaders spar as NZ election remains too close to callA back-and-forth on minimum wages lost the second leaders debate for Prime Minister Chris Luxon, according to an influential broadcaster.Perth Now · 14 Oct, 17:37
In this story: Chris Luxon · Chris Hipkins · National · Labour · New Zealand · Jacinda Ardern
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