New Zealand election too close to call as counting reaches halfway
With 60 per cent counted, National and Labour are deadlocked, a hung parliament remains possible, and key ministers are conceding their seats.
New Zealand's election is still wide open after 60 per cent of votes were counted, with Prime Minister Chris Luxon's National party at 29.4 per cent and Chris Hipkins' Labour just behind at 29.3 per cent.
The teal-coloured Opportunity party is heading for parliament on 5.6 per cent, which could prove decisive. The electoral commission projects government parties (National, ACT and NZ First) will hold 67 seats versus opposition parties' 63 seats, but those numbers have been moving all night.
Finance Minister Nicola Willis and Defence Minister Paul Goldsmith are all but conceding their seats. The result may not be known for weeks.
- 60 percent
- Votes counted
- 29.4 percent
- National party vote
- 29.3 percent
- Labour vote
- 67
- Government projected seats
Why it mattersNew Zealand faces weeks of uncertainty and tough coalition negotiations that will reshape its government and policy direction heading into 2027.
AustraliaAs Australia's closest neighbour, a New Zealand government shift will likely affect trade, immigration policy, and diplomatic ties with Canberra.
