New Zealand PM Christopher Luxon survives second confidence vote ahead of election

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has survived a second vote of confidence ahead of the November general election, claiming he has the “full support” of his ruling National Party caucus.

Luxon convened an urgent caucus gathering on Wednesday to address growing speculation about his leadership after a series of public missteps.

He told reporters the meeting, which lasted more than three hours, reaffirmed that the caucus was united and determined to win the upcoming election.

It was the second challenge to Luxon in four months, amid sluggish economic growth and a series of controversial remarks.

Last week, he faced backlash after suggesting a referendum on New Zealand’s electoral system on live radio without consulting party colleagues.

Earlier this month, Luxon criticised small businesses, calling them “adult” and accusing them of a “parent‑child” mentality that relied on government handouts, before later apologising for the harsh tone.

The former Air New Zealand CEO led his centre‑right party to victory in the 2023 elections, promising to lower living costs and cut taxes.

Boston polls, however, show that Luxon’s approval rating has fallen to a record low of 17% in the 1News Verian poll, even though he remains ahead of rivals.

Economists point to a rising unemployment rate of 5.6%, an 11‑year high, as a key concern for voters heading into the October sessions of Parliament.

New Zealand is set to hold its next general election on 7 November, and National will seek to rally members and press ahead with its policy slate under Luxon’s leadership.