New Zealand has started counting votes in a tightly contested election that could result in no party securing a majority. The outcome remains uncertain as the campaign was heavily influenced by concerns over rising living costs and economic challenges.
The election is shaping up to be one of the closest in the country's history, with analysts predicting a hung parliament. This would likely lead to prolonged negotiations to form a government, as no single party appears poised to win enough seats to govern alone.
The economic anxieties of voters dominated the campaign, reflecting widespread dissatisfaction with the current state of the economy. Issues such as inflation and affordability were central to the debates, shaping the priorities of both major and minor parties.