WELLINGTON — New Zealanders cast their ballots on Friday in a general election that opinion polls showed too close to call, pitting Prime Minister Christopher Luxon's National Party against Chris Hipkins' Labour. Early counting was expected after polls closed at 7pm local time.

The contest followed a final televised leaders' debate this week in which Luxon and Hipkins clashed over the cost of living, health funding and economic management. Both appeared on Mike Hosking's programme in the campaign's closing days, underscoring how narrow the race had become.

New Zealand's mixed-member proportional system means neither major party was likely to govern alone. Smaller parties, including ACT, New Zealand First and the Greens, were positioned to determine the shape of the next coalition, prolonging uncertainty even after the vote.

Luxon's National-led coalition entered the campaign defending a single term in office, while Hipkins sought to return Labour to power after its 2023 defeat. Analysts at Victoria University of Wellington said turnout and the performance of minor parties would prove decisive.

Winston Peters, leader of New Zealand First, signalled he would wait for final results before entering coalition talks, raising the prospect of days of negotiation. Special votes, which historically favour left-leaning parties, were not due to be fully counted for roughly two weeks.