Politics · Other · 1 hr ago
New Zealand election count begins in tight race between National and Labour
New Zealanders have voted, and the count is under way in a closely contested election.
The main race is between the governing National party, led by Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, and the Labour party.
Before election day, polls showed no clear path to government for either side, which may depend on forming a coalition.
Voters had also turned towards smaller parties, including the centrist Opportunity party, which could hold the balance of power if it wins enough support.
In the Epsom seat, Act leader David Seymour and National candidate Paul Goldsmith were separated by only a few dozen votes as results came in.
The results over the coming hours will clarify which parties may be able to form a government.
Early results in New Zealand’s election put the governing National Party ahead of Labour, in a closely fought race.
National had 31.19 percent of the vote, compared with Labour’s 28.35 percent, according to early results.
The Electoral Commission said the centrist Opportunity Party would meet the threshold to enter parliament.
The election follows weeks of campaigning, with polls showing no clear path to government for either major bloc.
Preliminary results from 95 percent of polling stations were expected by the end of election night, while the final result was expected by November 27.
- Who
- The governing National Party and opposition Labour Party are the leading parties. The centrist Opportunity Party is also set to enter parliament.
- What
- New Zealand is counting votes in a close general election.
- When
- Polling stations closed at 7pm on Saturday, November 7 local time. The final result is expected by November 27.
- Where
- New Zealand.
- Why
- Voters are choosing electorate representatives and political parties in a general election.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Polling stations opened.
Polling stations closed.
The Electoral Commission aimed to release preliminary results from 95 percent of polling stations.
The final result, including ballots cast by New Zealanders abroad, is expected.
- National
- 31.19 percent in early results
- Labour
- 28.35 percent in early results
- Opportunity Party
- Expected to meet the 5 percent threshold to enter parliament
- Preliminary count
- Results from 95 percent of polling stations targeted by the end of election night
- Final result
- Expected by November 27