New Zealanders end vote on final day of tight elections

New Zealanders voted on the final day of a closely contested general election, with the cost of living and economic problems prominent among voters’ concerns. Early results put the governing National Party just ahead of Labour, leaving the outcome uncertain and making it unlikely either party will govern alone.

Nearly 1.7 million of 3.8 million eligible voters had cast ballots before election day, which is subject to strict restrictions on political campaigning and media reporting. National, led by Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, received nearly 31% in preliminary results, while Labour, led by Chris Hipkins, had almost 30%; final results are due on 27 November. The mixed-member proportional system combines votes for a party and a local candidate, and the centrist Opportunity Party was polling above the 5% threshold for parliamentary representation.