Cost of Living Tops Concerns as Election Draws Closer

The Ipsos Issues Monitor has revealed New Zealanders' top concerns as the election draws closer. With just 99 days to go, cost of living and inflation continue to dominate the list, with nearly two-thirds of respondents pointing to them as one of their big three worries.

This is the second consecutive election where cost of living tops other issues, and it's a challenge that both major parties are trying to tackle. The survey shows Labour leading on unemployment, healthcare, and poverty/inequality, with 41% of respondents thinking they're best placed to address these issues.

The poll also highlights the importance of women's votes in this election, with men and women prioritizing different issues. Women are more concerned about healthcare and poverty/inequality, while men are more worried about immigration and taxation.