Christopher Luxon, a former businessman, emerged victorious in New Zealand’s recent election, securing a decisive win on a platform of change after six years of liberal governance primarily led by Jacinda Ardern. The exact composition of Luxon’s conservative government is yet to be determined, as the counting of ballots continues. The incumbent Prime Minister Chris Hipkins, who had held the position for a mere nine months after taking over from Ardern, graciously conceded defeat.
Concession and Reflections
Hipkins, in his announcement to supporters late Saturday, acknowledged the result was not as he had hoped for but expressed pride in the accomplishments of the previous six years. He reassured his supporters in Wellington that they had achieved much during his tenure.
Jacinda Ardern’s departure from the prime minister’s post in January had marked an unexpected transition. She cited a lack of capacity to fulfill the role effectively, even after her resounding victory in the previous election. While Ardern’s popularity waned due to COVID-19 restrictions and economic inflation, Hipkins, who previously served as the education minister and led the response to the pandemic, took the helm.
Election Results
With more than two-thirds of the vote counted, Luxon’s National Party secured approximately 40% of the vote. The proportional voting system in New Zealand indicates that Luxon, aged 53, was expected to form an alliance with the libertarian ACT Party.
Meanwhile, the Labour Party, led by Hipkins, garnered just over 25% of the vote, significantly less than the proportion it achieved in the last election under Ardern. The outcome was particularly significant for the Labour Party, which faced a tight contest for Ardern’s previous electorate seat, Mount Albert, a traditional Labour stronghold also held by a former Labour prime minister, Helen Clark.
Public Sentiment and Issues
The candidate for the National Party in Mount Albert, Melissa Lee, reported public concerns about the state of the economy and the rising cost of living. Voters expressed a desire for change, indicating fatigue with the current government. David Farrar, a longstanding conservative pollster, noted a possible “bloodbath” for the left in the initial impressions of voting across the country.
Luxon’s campaign promises included tax cuts for middle-income earners and a commitment to tackle crime. In contrast, Hipkins had offered free dental care for those under 30 and the removal of sales taxes on fruits and vegetables.
The government’s approach to Indigenous Maori was also a pivotal issue. Luxon pledged to eliminate the Maori Health Authority, alleging it creates a division within the health system. Hipkins defended co-governance efforts and accused Luxon of supporting racism.
Response to Crises
Just days after taking office in January, Hipkins faced a series of crises, including deadly floods and a cyclone in New Zealand. He quickly dispensed with some of Ardern’s more contentious policies and adopted a “back to basics” approach focused on addressing the rising cost of living.
Campaign Highlights
Luxon, a political newcomer but with a business background that included roles as the chief executive of Unilever Canada and Air New Zealand, gained attention for his strong stance against gangs and plans to address crime issues. He also pledged to alleviate the traffic congestion in the capital city of Wellington with a new tunnel project.However, Luxon faced criticism on social media for a response during a debate, in which he estimated his weekly food expenses at “about sixty bucks” (equivalent to US$36), leading some to perceive him as out of touch with the cost of living.
