No clear winner in New Zealand election as parties face weeks of talks
Final vote tallies are due November 27, and minor parties could hold the leverage in forming a government.
New Zealand's election on Saturday did not produce a decisive win for the right or the left. Negotiations to form a government cannot begin until final tallies are released on November 27.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon's National Party appeared close to returning to power by a single seat, based on 2.8 million ballots counted on election night. Labour, led by Chris Hipkins, did not appear to benefit and fell short of a majority.
Voters moved support toward smaller parties. The new group Opportunity, led by Qiulae Wong, won seven seats and is not aligned with either bloc. Wong has said she could work with either side.
Key points
- No party bloc won a clear majority; final results are due November 27.
- National appeared to hold a one-seat edge on election night.
- Opportunity won seven seats and could play a key role in talks.
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Summarized with AI from the sources above and reviewed before publishing.
