The Ardern enigma: Denis Welch on why so many NZers turned so quickly on our most popular leader of recent times
Denis Welch: "We should thank her, not vilify her."
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Latest from Politics
Michele Hewitson: Let the brawling begin
We’ve had a government for barely a week and already the insults are flying thick and fast
Danyl McLauchlan: The week in politics - leaks, protests and repeals but still no vision
Sooner or later, this government needs to say what it’s for and not just who it’s against.
The Bigger Picture: Winston Peters' long-play career in politics
There’s something of a vinyl revival going on with the return of Rt Hon Winston Peters.
Chris Slane's Cartoon of the Week: December 4
Cartoonist Chris Slane’s perspective on current events.
Michele Hewitson: Past mud-slinging set aside, Peters and Seymour settle into an uneasy alliance
In doing his deals, PM Luxon seems to have created a number of problems for his own party.
What was it like to have Robert Muldoon and David Lange as bosses?
With a new government in place, Gerald Hensley recalls working for two polarising PMs.
The Bigger Picture: Ladies who lunched
In November 1977, NZ PM Robert Muldoon and wife Thea visited the White House.
Danyl McLauchlan: Winners and losers in the new government
Who comes out on top in coalition deal?
Is this one deal the "Great Negotiator" will regret?
Even right-wing commentators turned on Christopher Luxon as talks dragged on.
Danyl McLauchlan - The week in politics: The problem with conventions is that they only work if both sides bother to observe them
Events here and abroad offer thought-provoking perspectives on political agreements.
Michele Hewitson: We are still locked in a room with the clock that stopped on election night
Waiting to hear who gets what in our new government is enough to send anyone balmy.
Danyl McLauchlan: Winston yet again demonstrates his power over larger coalition partners
Christopher Luxon and David Seymour may be smiling, but it doesn't mean they're happy.
Michele Hewitson: Two leaders with an acrimonious history try to be civil while PM-elect Luxon plays cupid
PM-elect Luxon needs all his negotiating skills to charm David Seymour and Winston Peters.
Danyl McLauchlan: How did Greens escape minor party punishment in election?
Having dodged the curse of many smaller parties, the Greens can celebrate.
Michele Hewitson: In a time of frustrating silence on our new government, silliness fills the void
By the time you read this, we may have a government. Or we may not. Who knows?
Danyl McLauchlan: The National MPs we can expect to see more of when the government is announced
Who runs National and what will they do with their newly won political power?
Danyl McLauchlan: How strategic conservatives have made NZ First a political force
MMP has spawned a group of voters who act as a handbrake on the left and the right.
Michele Hewitson: The silence from the next government is golden
Waiting to learn the make-up of our next government? Enjoy the quiet while it lasts.
Danyl McLauchlan: What’s influencing modern politics?
"The state can help people, but it can also waste incredible amounts of money."
Danyl McLauchlan: Labour left few policies behind that will provide a lasting legacy
The party lost the election in spectacular fashion.
Michele Hewitson: National’s win on the night was hardly a blue tsunami – merely a ripple
Labour brought to heel as smaller parties picked up numerous seats.
Danyl McLauchlan: The urgent issues that just won’t wait any longer
National faces a number of problems – none of which will be easy to solve.
Michele Hewitson: Investigating the 2026 election further
"He only bothered with a byline when there was a chance of winning another media award."
Duncan Garner: Voters give Luxon what he asked for - but Peters may yet ruin the party.
Luxon starts with a clean slate and a party he wants to work with.
Symbolic victories and bombshell defeats. Welcome to the new challenges of a fragmented future
Anxious wait for special votes count could force Luxon to deal with Peters.
How broadcasters will be tackling election night and who’s on their guest lists
Your television and radio guide for election night.
Danyl McLauchlan: Panic, missteps and blunders in the countdown to the election
The Hamas attack grabs the headlines, and two polls show Peters as the likely kingmaker.
Behind the Photo: Jacinda Ardern after she won the 2020 election
Photographer Hannah Peters recalls Ardern’s moment of reflection during the historic win.
Michele Hewitson: Looking forward to the final week of Campaign 2026
"It was an ignominious way for a lifelong Conservative to go: death by leftie."