Cost of living tops concerns ahead of election

The cost of living, healthcare and jobs are weighing heavy on New Zealanders mind as they prepare to vote in next month’s general election, according to the latest Ipsos Issues Monitor.

The national survey found 63 per cent of respondents identified inflation and the cost of living as a top concern, the highest proportion since May 2023.

Healthcare and hospitals ranked second at 44 per cent, followed by the economy at 34 per cent. Unemployment rose to fourth place at 21 per cent, overtaking housing for only the second time since the survey began in 2018.

The findings provide a snapshot of key concerns ahead of election day on November 7.

Ipsos New Zealand country manager Carin Hercock said increasing concern about unemployment reflected pressure on households.

“The fact that unemployment has now overtaken housing highlights growing concern about the labour market as New Zealanders continue to navigate a challenging economic environment.”

Concern about healthcare also increased from the previous survey, returning to levels last seen in August last year.

The survey was conducted online from September 3 to 11, with quotas set to reflect the adult population.