Prime Minister Chris Luxon pushed back on speculation around his leadership, insisting he retains the full backing of his caucus. Luxon maintained confidence both in his tenure in charge and the Government’s direction, adding the focus remains on economic recovery and easing the cost of living for New Zealanders.
Speaking during a visit to Allproof Industries in Pōkeno, Luxon was unequivocal when questioned about his position.
“I am confident I have the numbers and I am confident I have the support of my caucus.”
The comments come amid increased scrutiny of the Government’s polling and political momentum, though Luxon downplayed the significance of recent surveys.
“There’s only one poll that matters, and it’s November the 7th, and the New Zealand people will make that decision,” he said.
He added that public polling still indicates the current coalition would be returned if an election were held now.
“Any polls that I’ve seen… have said that this coalition government would be reelected if there was an election today.”
Luxon acknowledged, however, that there is more work ahead for the National Party, particularly as economic pressures continue to weigh on households.
“At the moment, the only issue that’s important to [New Zealanders] is the cost of living,” he said.
“That’s why actually repairing our economy and making sure we’re doing everything to get New Zealand through another crisis with this fuel crisis is so important.”
He warned global instability, particularly in the Middle East, is likely to impact inflation and growth, adding the Government is focused on navigating those challenges.
“We know it will damage inflation and growth, but we want to be able to get through this crisis and pop up the other side incredibly well,” he said.
Luxon said long-term economic discipline would remain key, signalling the Government is wary of repeating past spending approaches.
“What we have to do is keep an eye on the long-term economics of New Zealand and not repeat the mistakes of COVID,” he said.
While acknowledging pressures on households, he said not all impacts could be avoided.
“We cannot alleviate the pressure for everybody, but we have to protect New Zealand and the economy and New Zealanders.”
“(What) we really want to see is peace in the Middle East. We need to see that ceasefire hold… so that we can make sure we can get our oil prices down.”
