Conservative Coalition Triumphs in New Zealand Election
New Zealand voters have elected a conservative coalition, ousting the party once led by Jacinda Ardern and ending six years of Labour government. Christopher Luxon, leader of the center-right National Party, will become the next prime minister, leading a coalition with the smaller libertarian party Act. Many voters felt that Ardern and her successor, Chris Hipkins, failed to deliver on the Labour Party's promise of transformational change, with the cost of living being a primary concern. The National Party campaigned on tax cuts, but critics question the funding and potential disproportionate impact on disabled people. The new government is unlikely to make significant changes on social issues, but Act may push for a referendum on Maori policy. The country also faces challenges such as climate change and infrastructure recovery from Cyclone Gabrielle.