New Zealand's new government faces disillusioned voters
New Zealand's new government was elected amid a low national mood and widespread voter disillusionment, with many citing economic hardship and apathy.
At a glance
- New Zealand's new government was elected, but many voters expressed apathy, dread or disillusionment.
- More than half of New Zealanders no longer see the country as a land of opportunity, a recent study found.
- Unemployment is at an 11-year high, and about 180 people are leaving New Zealand daily.
New Zealand's new government was voted in on Saturday, as fog covered Wellington, but the public mood remains marked by apathy, dread and disillusionment.
The election brought a new government, but polling shows many voters are not feeling the change. Imogen Vlutger, 21, said it was pretty flat, with apathy and dread. Symone, 28, said people were tired. A man in his 40s said he did not even vote because he could not bring himself to tick any boxes.
Across the country, more than half no longer see New Zealand as a land of opportunity, a recent study found, while a similar portion fears the future looks worse. Many Kiwis feel the economy is in ruins, there are no jobs, the cost of living is sky high, community ties are weakening and there is little progress on policy solutions.
Saturday's election also saw a record number of voters desert the two major parties, giving neither a clear mandate. But it brought new highs for the Greens, the Act Party and the Opportunity Party. The Opportunity Party had never won a seat before but could now hold the balance of power with seven.
The country's decline accelerated during the Covid pandemic, according to many who spoke to the BBC. Unemployment is now at an 11-year high and rising. For under-24s, conditions are the worst in three decades. One in three cannot get enough work or have none. Michael Dawson said he finished school, studied a trade and obtained a qualification, then applied for dozens of jobs, but had no interviews in a year.
The economic and social pressures are also driving a record exodus. About 180 people leave New Zealand every day, dividing families and draining talent pools. Siblings Sam and Emily said they love New Zealand but find it hard to keep reasons to stay.
The economic and social pressures are also driving a record exodus. About 180 people leave New Zealand every day, dividing families and draining talent pools. Siblings Sam and Emily said they love New Zealand but find it hard to keep reasons to stay.
Source: BBC Business.
Questions and answers
- Why are New Zealand voters disillusioned?
- A recent study found more than half no longer see New Zealand as a land of opportunity, and many feel the economy is in ruins, with no jobs and high cost of living.
- How bad is New Zealand's job market?
- Unemployment is at an 11-year high and rising, and for under-24s it is the worst in three decades; one in three cannot get enough work or have none.
- How many New Zealanders are leaving the country?
- About 180 people are leaving New Zealand every day, a record-breaking exodus, according to the source.
