A recent RNZ-Reid Research poll indicates a significant dip in the approval ratings for New Zealand's Prime Minister Christopher Luxon. With the election approaching in November, the results showed that Luxon’s preferred rating has fallen to 17.3%, the lowest since he took office in 2023. Simultaneously, sentiments about the nation’s direction have turned more negative, with an increasing number of citizens feeling that New Zealand is heading the wrong way.

Luxon’s decline in popularity is accompanied by a drop in his net favourability, which has slid from -14 in January to -20.6, representing his lowest score in the Reid Research tracking since he became leader of the National Party in 2021. This decrease in approval comes as the National Party falls nearly five points behind the opposition Labour Party led by Chris Hipkins, who, despite also experiencing a slight dip, continues to lead with 20.7% of the preferred prime minister rating.

The concerning poll results paint a picture of a potentially competitive election landscape, with indications of a hung parliament if elections were held today. This scenario signals challenges for Luxon and his government as they strive to balance economic management and public expectations, underscoring the fragility of voter confidence as the election looms.