Chris Hipkins extends preferred prime minister lead in latest poll

Tuesday 20 October 2026 · 3 outlets · 3 reports · updated Tue 20 Oct, 6:57pm

In this story Christopher Luxon, Labour Party, Chris Hipkins

Labour leader Chris Hipkins has increased his lead over National's Christopher Luxon to 13 points in the latest The Post/Freshwater Strategy poll. While Hipkins holds a significant advantage in personal appeal, the major parties remain nearly tied in the party vote as the election approaches.

How they headlined it

4:37pm6:57pm

1. NZ HeraldTue 20 Oct, 4:37pm

   Election 2026: Winston Peters claims Chris Hipkins tried to get NZ First to reverse rule-out, Labour says not so (opens in new tab)

2. The PostTue 20 Oct, 5:02pm

   The Post/Freshwater Strategy poll: Chris Hipkins stretches preferred PM lead ahead of final debate (opens in new tab)

3. StuffTue 20 Oct, 6:57pm

   Hipkins surges ahead as election goes down to the wire (opens in new tab)