New Zealand's recent election took place under a cloud of disillusionment, both literal and figurative, as fog blanketed Wellington and voters expressed deep fatigue with the political process. Many young Kiwis, like 21-year-old Imogen Vlutger, described feeling apathy and dread, while others admitted to not voting at all. The national mood is particularly low, with over half the country no longer seeing New Zealand as a land of opportunity and a similar portion fearing an even worse future.
The economic situation is dire, with unemployment at an 11-year high and one in three young people under 24 either unable to find work or struggling to secure enough of it. Household electricity bills have surged, housing remains unaffordable, and grocery prices are among the highest in the developed world. The healthcare system is in crisis, with long waiting lists, understaffing, and rising costs for patients. These challenges have driven a record-breaking exodus of about 180 people leaving the country daily.
Despite the widespread despair, some sectors and regions are faring better. The cattle industry, for example, has seen a resurgence under the National Party, with agricultural worker Stu Morton describing last year as the best in his 30-year career. He believes the rest of the economy will follow suit with a stable government and positive attitude. However, political scientist Luke Oldfield notes that the crisis is eroding national identity and confidence in institutions, with only two out of five New Zealanders trusting the government to do the right thing.
The election results reflected this discontent, with a record number of voters deserting the two major parties and giving new highs to parties across the political spectrum, including the Greens, Act Party, and the previously seat-less Opportunity Party. The polarizing public debates around issues like Māori rights, healthcare for LGBT+ people, and immigration have added to the mental load for many communities. Former Prime Minister Helen Clark's foundation found that young Kiwis feel far more isolated than previous generations, with attitudes towards multiculturalism souring and hope diminishing.