After close vote, New Zealand must wait weeks for new government

New Zealand faced a week-long uncertainty after their general election on Sunday, with Prime Minister Christopher Luxon's National Party holding a narrow majority but special votes still to be counted. According to preliminary results, the coalition led by National, ACT, and New Zealand First had secured 67 out of the projected 131 seats in the parliament, which requires a majority of 66 seats.

However, around 14% of votes remain uncounted, traditionally favoring the left. These votes, including overseas ballots and those from outside electorates, are expected to be announced on November 27. Until a governing coalition is formed, Luxon will lead a caretaker government. Neither the prime minister nor opposition leader Chris Hipkins claimed victory, acknowledging that the election was "very tight" and that it would take another three weeks to know the final outcome.

The centrist Opportunity Party, which could play a key role, has not yet decided whether to support the coalition. Luxon softened his stance on the party, suggesting it could be appropriate to form a relationship with them. The election outcome reflects voters' dissatisfaction with economic growth and trust in the opposition leader's promises.