From NZ Herald · · 2m
Christopher Luxon to travel to China for Apec summit ahead of special vote count
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon heads to China for Apec summit as New Zealand waits for special vote results.
In brief
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon heads to China for Apec summit as New Zealand waits for special vote results. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon will travel to China for an Apec summit meeting ahead of the final election count that includes special votes. Originally reported by NZ Herald.
Luxon and McClay travel to China
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Trade Minister Todd McClay will travel to China next week for an Apec summit meeting.
Apec summit dates
The meeting takes place in Shenzhen from November 18 to 19, 2026.
Luxon's purpose for trip
Luxon stated the meeting provides an opportunity to advocate for practical steps that make trade easier and less costly.
Trade significance
Apec economies purchase 75% of New Zealand’s exports and China is New Zealand’s largest trading partner.
Foreign Minister Peters' trip
Foreign Minister Winston Peters will attend the East Asia Summit in Manila, Philippines from November 16 to 17.
Caretaker government context
Luxon’s office confirmed New Zealand’s participation aligns with caretaker government conventions between elected governments.
Election outcome uncertainty
Special votes could change the election outcome as results are yet to be counted.
Final count timeline
The Electoral Commission expects to publish the final count including special votes by November 27, 2026.
Luxon's statement
Luxon said high-level meetings bring together leaders and ministers from across the Indo-Pacific to discuss security and prosperity issues.
Opposition consultation
Luxon stated the Opposition was being consulted about the caretaker government arrangements.
Election night context
On election night, Luxon appeared likely to be re-elected Prime Minister in a coalition with Act and New Zealand First.
Special votes definition
Special votes are those mainly cast overseas or outside a voter’s electorate.
Election outcome uncertainty
Special votes could change the election outcome as results are yet to be counted.
Final count timeline
The Electoral Commission expects to publish the final count including special votes by November 27, 2026.
Luxon's statement
Luxon said high-level meetings bring together leaders and ministers from across the Indo-Pacific to discuss security and prosperity issues.
In short
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon will travel to China for an Apec summit meeting ahead of the final election count that includes special votes.
