New Zealand PM Calls November Election as Economy Rebounds

By James Glynn

SYDNEY--New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said the country will hold elections on Nov. 7.

"Continuing the recent tradition of announcing the election date early in the year ensures New Zealanders have certainty," Luxon said in a statement on Wednesday.

"Kiwis can also have certainty that our government will continue governing throughout the year to deliver on our plan to fix the basics and build the future," he added.

The election is set to be held against a backdrop of a recovery in the economy, as hefty interest-rate cuts pull it clear of years of weak growth.

Luxon highlighted his ruling New Zealand National Party's success in getting inflation down, while pointing to interest-rate cuts that have eased pressures on homebuyers.

"The economy is picking up, with increasing business and consumer confidence, building and manufacturing taking off, and exports doing incredibly well," Luxon said.

Recent polls suggest a close run race at the election, albeit it won't be held for some time.

The government's intention is that parliament will rise on Sept. 24, before being dissolved Oct. 1.

Write to James Glynn at [e-mail]

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

01-20-26 1950ET