A long runway for an economic recovery is thought to be the main reason for a November election.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon's set November 7th as election day – the latest election since 2008.
Early voting will open on October 26, with final results due in early November.
Political Commentator Liam Hehir told Andrew Dickens that the Government’s hoping that if they have as much time as possible, people will start to feel more confident regarding the economy.
LISTEN ABOVE

Anne Villamil: University of Iowa Economics Professor on Trump's threat of tariffs over Greenland
03:45

Full Show Podcast: 22 January 2026
34:12

Malcolm Fleming: Certified Builders Chief Executive on demand for construction workers increasing
03:38