Key facts
- New Zealand's parliament adjourned its final sitting on Wednesday before the November 7 general election.
- Prime Minister Christopher Luxon praised his government's record on economic growth, exports, and debt.
- Opposition leader Chris Hipkins criticized the government for failing to address the cost of living.
- Opinion polls indicate a close election with no clear majority for either the center-right or left blocs.
New Zealand's parliament concluded its final sitting on Wednesday before the November 7 general election, with party leaders using the closing debate to present their cases to voters ahead of what is expected to be a close poll. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon hailed his centre-right government's record, listing economic growth, record exports, and lower government debt among the coalition's achievements. Opposition Labour leader Chris Hipkins accused the government of failing to ease pressure on households and making the cost of living worse. Opinion polls suggest a closely contested election, with neither the centre-right governing bloc nor parties on the left consistently showing a clear path to a parliamentary majority. The campaign is expected to focus on the cost of living, economic management, and public services. Parliament is due to be formally dissolved on October 1, beginning the formal election period ahead of the vote.