From RNZ · RNZ | Te Reo Irirangi o Aotearoa · · 1m 10s
Chris v Chris debate
National and Labour leaders face tight race in 2026 election.
In brief
National and Labour leaders face tight race in 2026 election. Christopher Luxon and Chris Hipkins both performed well in their TVNZ leaders debate but neither party has a clear path to government as minor parties gain influence. Originally reported by RNZ.
Debate preview
Three years ago, National was on 37 points in polls with Labour at 27 percent.
Current polls
RNZ-Reid Research shows National at 26 percent and Labour at 31 percent, while 1News-Verian has a one-point gap.
Minor parties rising
Opportunity party has grown in size and influence, potentially becoming a kingmaker in the next government.
Coalition possibilities
The next government could be made up of four parties, similar to Sir John Key's National government in 2008.
Luxon's stance
Luxon ruled out working with Opportunity due to its land tax policy and National's campaign on no new taxes.
Debate highlights
Luxon argued on education while Hipkins conceded Labour got India across the line on free trade.
Next steps
Both leaders face another debate in a week as minor parties gain leverage in coalition talks.
Here's the gist
Christopher Luxon and Chris Hipkins both performed well in their TVNZ leaders debate but neither party has a clear path to government as minor parties gain influence.
