New Zealand election: incumbent conservative believes he can form the next government

After New Zealand’s election, Christopher Luxon’s National Party and the Labour Party are neck and neck at about 29% of the vote, with neither holding a clear parliamentary majority. Early results put National ahead in seats and suggest it could secure a narrow majority with coalition partners NZ First and ACT. Luxon said he had a chance to form the next government but that the result was too close to call, and will lead a caretaker government until the final count on November 27. Special ballots, including votes from New Zealanders overseas, could change the outcome of an election dominated by concerns over the cost of living, healthcare, petrol prices and unemployment.