In brief
In Wellington, New Zealand’s Electoral Commission announced that 913,762 people voted early in the first week of the 2026 general election, a rise from 712,192 in 2023. The figure represents about 24% of enrolled voters, up from 19% at that point last cycle. The early‑voting surge reflects both a broader turnout and continuing competition between the incumbent National Party and the opposition Labour Party.
In Wellington, November 2, Xinhua reported that 913,762 New Zealand voters had cast early ballots between October 26 and November 1, a rise from 712,192 during the same period in 2023. The Electoral Commission said the early‑voting figure accounts for about 24% of enrolled voters, up from 19% at that point in the previous election.
The busiest day of the early‑voting period was October 31, when more than 190,000 people voted. Daily advance‑voting numbers have surpassed those recorded on corresponding days in 2023 every day since voting began, the Commission noted.
While the early‑voting turnout remains below the 1.16 million votes recorded at the same stage of the 2020 general election, the surge indicates growing engagement ahead of the election scheduled for November 7.
For the week leading into election day, about 600 voting places will be open each day, according to the Electoral Commission. On the day itself, more than 2,300 voting places will operate nationwide, giving voters a range of options to cast their ballots.
New Zealand citizens or permanent residents aged 18 or older, who have lived in the country continuously for 12 months or more at any time in their life, are eligible to vote. Official election results are slated to be declared on November 27.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon leads the center‑right National Party, which is seeking a second term after taking office in 2023. Labour, headed by former Prime Minister Chris Hipkins, continues to campaign for a return to power amid public concerns over the cost of living, economic growth, jobs, and public services.
According to a separate report from Radio New Zealand, 62% of 18‑to‑24‑year‑old voters have already cast their ballots in the advance‑voting phase, further boosting early turnout.
