Poll Shows Opportunity Party Could Be Kingmaker in NZ Government

What Happened

The Opportunity Party has achieved 8% support in the latest 1News Verian poll, a three-point increase and a first-time crossing of the 5% threshold. This development places the party neck-and-neck with NZ First, which also registered 8% in the poll. The poll, conducted between August 8 and 11 with 847 voters, suggests that the Opportunity Party could hold a kingmaker position in forming the next government, potentially enabling a left-bloc coalition.

The poll results were released following a period of controversy for NZ First leader Winston Peters, including criticism from Prime Minister Christopher Luxon for remarks that drew international condemnation and a diplomatic protest from China. Another NZ First candidate, Stuart Nash, also resigned due to controversy over his comments.

Key Facts

• The Opportunity Party reached 8% support in the 1News Verian poll, up three points.
• NZ First also polled at 8%, down three points.
• Labour received 30% support, National 29%, the Greens 12%, and ACT 9%.
• The poll was conducted from August 8 to 11 with a sample size of 847 voters.
• On these numbers, the Opportunity Party would gain nine seats in Parliament.

Background

The Opportunity Party has contested elections since 2017 but has not previously crossed the 5% threshold required to enter Parliament. NZ First's recent difficulties include its leader Winston Peters facing criticism for remarks made in Parliament and a former candidate's resignation over controversial comments.