Election 2026 live: National promises $1.75b to build Auckland's Mill Road, TPM announces one-person party list
New Zealand's 2026 election campaign intensified as the Labour and National parties clashed over fiscal plans and infrastructure spending. Major promises include pay equity legislation, tax relief for KiwiSaver, and significant funding for Auckland's roading infrastructure.
Why it matters
The competing economic visions presented by the major parties will determine the country's fiscal direction and cost-of-living policies.
Election 2026 heated up on Sunday, when Labour released its long-awaited fiscal plan and National immediately claimed it fell billions of dollars short, which would be made up in more borrowing and taxes.
Among the promises from Labour leader Chris Hipkins was a pay rise for 65,000 care and support workers, costing $2.5b over four years, while also re-implementing pay-equity legislation.
National finance spokesperson Nicola Willis accused Labour of lying to the country, claiming an $8.5b hole in its policy.
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Meanwhile, National leader Christopher Luxon visited the Takanini Gurdwara Sri Kalgidhar Sahib Sikh Temple, which has hosted several previous prime ministers.
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