Recent Survey Reveals Declining Support for New Zealand Government

Synopsis

A recent poll reveals a 2-point drop in support for New Zealand's coalition government, led by Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, amid economic challenges. The opposition, particularly the Labour and Green parties, show potential to form a new government.

Key Takeaways

Support for New Zealand's coalition government decreased to 22%.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon faced a record low in approval.
Labour leader Chris Hipkins saw a 2-point increase in support.
The opposition may have enough seats to form a new government.
Luxon remains confident about future elections.

Wellington, Feb 11 (NationPress) A recent survey conducted on Tuesday indicated that the support for New Zealand's existing coalition government fell by 2 points to 22 percent, marking a historic low for Prime Minister Christopher Luxon. This decline is attributed to escalating economic issues and rising unemployment rates.

The 1News Verian Poll, which surveyed 1,000 eligible voters between February 3 and February 7, also suggested that the opposition, consisting of the Labour and Green parties, could secure enough seats to establish a government.

Former Prime Minister and current Labour leader Chris Hipkins saw his support increase by 2 points to 17 percent, according to this poll, which is the third consecutive survey showing this trend.

Support for Luxon's National party within the ruling coalition decreased by 3 percent to 34 percent compared to the December figures, while the other coalition members—ACT and New Zealand First—experienced a 1 point increase to 9 percent and a 1 point decrease to 5 percent, respectively. In contrast, opposition Labour's support rose by 4 percent to 33 percent.

In reaction to the poll results, Luxon expressed confidence, stating that the only poll that truly matters is the one in 2026 during the General Election, which occurs every three years, as reported by the Xinhua news agency.

Additionally, the Curia Poll, carried out by the Taxpayers' Union from February 2 to 4, also indicated that Labour narrowly surpassed National in terms of support, with Luxon's approval rating declining by 2 points.

The coalition government of New Zealand was established by the National Party, ACT New Zealand party, and New Zealand First party following extensive negotiations after the General Elections in October 2023.

Prime Minister Luxon, who took office in November 2023, remarked, "New Zealanders voted not just for a change of government, but also for a shift in policies and approaches—our coalition government is prepared to implement that change."