Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has announced that New Zealand's next general election will be held on November 7. Luxon stated that the National party aims to continue its agenda focused on "fixing the basics and building the future." He emphasized the need for stable government, a strong economy with responsible spending, lower taxes, and increased opportunities for families in a volatile global environment.
The economy and cost of living are expected to be key issues during the campaign, consistently identified as top concerns for New Zealanders by the Ipsos New Zealand issues monitor.
New Zealand utilizes a mixed-member proportional (MMP) voting system, with general elections occurring every three years. The 120-seat parliament typically requires the two major parties, centre-right National and centre-left Labour, to negotiate with minor parties to form a majority government.
Luxon's current government is a coalition formed with the Act and New Zealand First parties after the 2023 election. While open to future collaboration with these parties, Luxon indicated a focus on securing a strong party vote for National.
Since taking office, the coalition has implemented policy changes across public services, infrastructure, and environmental regulations, presenting them as measures to stimulate the economy, attract overseas investment, and bolster industry.
Several policies have drawn scrutiny. Reforms affecting Māori generated significant protests concerning Māori rights. Alterations to climate change objectives prompted concerns from scientists and environmentalists. Furthermore, proposals to open land for mining received approximately 30,000 public submissions, a high volume for legislative input.
Recent polling data for the coalition over the past year has been varied, with the left bloc (Labour, Green party, and Te Pāti Māori) often polling similarly to or ahead of the current government. Luxon's favorability as a leader has consistently been lower than that of Labour leader Chris Hipkins.
Political scientist Dr. Claire Robinson noted that recent polls show Labour with an average of 2% more support than National. Robinson suggested that a substantial improvement in the domestic economy would be necessary for National to secure a second term.
Reacting to the announcement, Labour leader Chris Hipkins stated his party is prepared for the election, promising voters new ideas and a focus on employment, affordable healthcare, housing, and addressing the cost of living. Hipkins expressed that a change in government would allow New Zealand to progress.