Labour leads National on all top five voter concerns in new poll

Labour has extended its lead over National across the top five issues identified by voters in the latest Ipsos Issues Monitor. The survey, conducted between 19 and 27 October 2026, shows Labour leading on inflation, healthcare, petrol prices, the economy, and unemployment.

Inflation and the cost of living remains the primary concern for 64% of New Zealanders. Healthcare concern has reached 45%, the highest level since the survey began in 2018, while petrol prices rose significantly to become the third most important issue at 31%.

National remains the most trusted party on only one of the top 20 issues, crime and law and order, leading Labour by one percentage point, 29% to 28%. This comes despite National's attempts to focus the election on law and order following controversy regarding politicians meeting with gangs.

The current government's performance rating remained unchanged at 4.1 out of 10. The poll of 1,008 New Zealanders has a margin of error of +/- 3.5 percentage points.

How it developed

• Mon 2 Nov, 7:13amThe report notes that polling day is Saturday, November 7.

Where reports differ

• One report notes petrol prices were fifth in the previous poll, while another states they were seventh.

Compiled from reports by The Post, NZ Herald, RNZ, Stuff and Otago Daily Times.