New Zealand's mood turns gloomy as voters hand power to smaller parties
New Zealand held its Saturday election as record numbers of voters abandoned the two major parties.
Labour and the National Party gained no clear mandate in Saturday's election. A record number of voters abandoned both major parties.
The Greens, Act Party, and Opportunity Party all gained unusual support. The Opportunity Party has never won a seat before.
It could now hold the balance of power with seven seats. New Zealand faces severe economic strain.
Unemployment is at an 11-year high. One in three people under 24 are either jobless or underemployed.
About 180 people leave the country each day. This is a record exodus.
Cost of living is among the world's highest.
- 7
- Opportunity Party seats
- 1 in 3 under 24
- Youth unemployment rate
- About 180
- Daily departures
- 11-year high
- Unemployment level
Why it mattersNew Zealand faces political uncertainty with no clear winner, while young people struggle with joblessness and many are leaving the country.
