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New Zealand parliament adjourns before November election
Party leaders used the final debate to make closing pitches as polls show no clear winner and coalition talks may decide the next government.
New Zealand's parliament concluded its final sitting on Wednesday, with party leaders pressing competing cases to voters ahead of the Nov. 7 election.
Campaigns are expected to center on cost of living, economic management, and public services, as opinion polls suggest neither the centre-right governing bloc nor the left has a clear path to majority.
The final session descended into disorder as Green Party MPs and Te Pati Maori members heckled New Zealand First leader Peters, whose words became nearly impossible to discern during his 10-minute slot.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon defended his government's record, declaring, "I'm incredibly proud of what this government has achieved," while Opposition leader Hipkins accused it of failing households and being "out of ideas."
Parliament will formally dissolve on October 1, beginning the election period ahead of the Nov. 7 vote that will determine the country's next government.