WELLINGTON: New Zealanders decisively voted for a new conservative government on Saturday, marking the end of a six-year era led by the centre-left Labour party. Incumbent Prime Minister Chris Hipkins conceded defeat, acknowledging the victory of premier-in-waiting Christopher Luxon, the leader of the National Party and its coalition partner ACT.
With 97 percent of the vote tallied, the National Party and ACT were projected to secure 61 seats in New Zealand’s 120-seat parliament, giving them a clear majority. Hipkins, who assumed office in January after replacing the popular two-term leader Jacinda Ardern, expressed his gratitude to Labour supporters in Wellington while acknowledging the election’s outcome.
“The election result tonight is not one that any of us wanted; however, I want you to be proud of what we achieved during the last six years,” Hipkins stated, recognizing the challenges faced during his tenure.
Luxon, a former airline executive who entered politics in 2019, pledged to bring change to the country. “New Zealanders have reached for hope and voted for change,” he declared, emphasizing his commitment to building the economy, delivering tax relief, addressing the rising cost of living, and focusing on law and order issues.
During their first 100 days in office, the newly elected government plans to implement measures such as cracking down on youth offending, banning cellphones in schools, and scrapping the Labour government’s proposed fuel tax hikes.
Economic Situation Influenced New Zealand Election Campaign
The election campaign was dominated by concerns over the difficult economic situation and the soaring cost of living, which resonated deeply with voters. Both Luxon and Hipkins had promised solutions to ease surging petrol prices, tackle housing shortages, and mitigate the escalating prices of essential goods.
In Waikanae, a small town north of Wellington, residents voiced their concerns about the mounting cost of living. Butcher Terry McKee highlighted the challenges faced by many, including rising interest rates and fuel costs. “Things are tight for everyone,” he said.
The Labour party, which secured a landslide victory under Ardern in 2020, suffered a significant defeat in this election, with forecasts indicating 34 seats, underscoring the shifting political landscape in New Zealand.
Luxon expressed his eagerness to begin the work of steering the country in a new direction. “New Zealand has chosen change, and we will get this country back on track,” he affirmed, outlining his vision for the nation’s future.
