Polls Show Tight Race Ahead of New Zealand Election

National's campaign chair Simeon Brown acknowledged the tight race ahead after a disappointing poll result. The latest RNZ Reid Research poll shows National plummeting to 25.9 percent, its worst result since the 2020 election. Labour also saw a decline, dropping to 30.8 percent. The Greens surged to 14.8 percent, while Opportunity remains a crucial kingmaker at 5.5 percent.

Brown did not provide an explanation for National's poor performance but emphasized the need for focused campaigning in the remaining 32 days before the election. He highlighted the party's plan to address inflation and restore law and order. National leader Christopher Luxon declined to comment on the poll, leaving Brown to represent the party's stance.

Despite Labour's third consecutive drop, leader Chris Hipkins expressed confidence in his party's momentum. He cited positive feedback on policies aimed at cost of living relief and job creation. Hipkins remains the preferred prime minister at 21.9 percent, ahead of Luxon at 17.1 percent. He acknowledged the challenges of being the Opposition leader but remained optimistic about building support.

The Green Party's co-leaders, Marama Davidson and Chlöe Swarbrick, were unfazed by their stellar result, attributing it to strong community feedback. Swarbrick, who ranked fourth in preferred prime minister ratings, downplayed the significance of individual popularity. Opportunity leader Qiulae Wong emphasized her party's role in bringing stability and finding common ground across the political spectrum. ACT also saw a rise to 9 percent, with leader David Seymour encouraging continued support.