New Zealand's Prime Minister, Christopher Luxon, has survived a second leadership challenge within his National Party in four months, ahead of a general election due in November. He called an "urgent" caucus meeting on Wednesday to address "increased speculation" about his leadership, and afterwards said he had the "full support" of his colleagues, insisting the party remained united and determined to win the election.

The challenge came amid weak poll ratings and a string of missteps, including a suggestion of a referendum on the electoral system made without consulting colleagues, and a speech telling small businesses to "be adult" that drew criticism before he apologised. Unemployment has risen to an 11-year high of 5.6%, and a 1News Verian poll published on Wednesday put Luxon's preferred prime minister rating at a new low of 17%, though he remains ahead of rival candidates. New Zealand's next general election is scheduled for 7 November.