Nicola Willis defends National Party attacks on Chlöe Swarbrick

Greens co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick has described attacks from the National Party during the election campaign as "nasty" and hysterical cyber-bullying. Swarbrick stated that the attacks have moved from social media to every interview, with the Prime Minister using them in speeches. She expressed interest in debating policy, such as the Greens' wealth tax, rather than being painted as a "bogeyman".

The National Party has repeatedly claimed that Swarbrick would serve as finance minister if the government loses power. An RNZ count found that 37 of the 94 National Party Instagram posts from the previous six days featured the Greens or Swarbrick. National deputy leader Nicola Willis defended the campaign, stating the party makes no apologies for providing information to help voters make informed decisions.

Willis described herself as a "woman in politics who gets my fair share of online flak". She noted that the Greens have significant influence in coalition negotiations regarding proposed tax reforms. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon stated he was not targeting Swarbrick, but was instead using the Greens' own words in promotions.

The political tension comes as an Ipsos survey suggests voters believe Labour is more trusted on certain issues. Chris Hipkins, the Labour leader, suggested that National's attack ads showed the party was becoming "increasingly desperate".

How it developed

• Tue 3 Nov, 5:00amNicola Willis defended the attacks on Swarbrick, describing herself as a woman who receives online flak and stating National makes no apologies for its campaign tactics.

Where reports differ

• While Swarbrick described the attacks as cyber-bullying and 'nasty', Nicola Willis defended the campaign as providing necessary information for voters.

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