Late-deciding voters could determine outcome of close election

Friday 23 October 2026 · 2 outlets · 3 reports · updated Sat 24 Oct, 10:19am

In this story Christopher Luxon, Labour Party, National Party, NZ First

New polling shows party loyalty is declining, with only 14% of voters always supporting the same party. As Labour and National remain locked in a tight contest, a large number of undecided voters may decide the election result. Meanwhile, political parties are targeting older voters who are more likely to turn out at the polls.

How they headlined it

24h6h

Fri 4amSat 4am10:19am

1. The PostFri 23 Oct, 4:00am

   The Post/Freshwater Strategy poll: Labour losing Auckland but Chris Hipkins is preferred PM (opens in new tab)

   • The Post/Freshwater Strategy poll: Party loyalties fray as late-deciding voters hold cliffhanger election in their hands (opens in new tab) Sat 24 Oct, 4:00am
2. StuffSat 24 Oct, 10:19am

   If you want to win an election, these voters will help a lot (opens in new tab)