A 25-year-old Auckland professional, speaking as part of a new series on the state of the nation, says the cost of living and housing affordability are the primary factors influencing their view of New Zealand. The finance-sector worker, who moved to the country from Malaysia at age four, said they are considering a move to Australia for better career opportunities and potentially leaving New Zealand permanently.
Why the cost of living dominates the voter outlook
For this inner-city resident, the immediate concern is the ability to afford basic goods. While employed in a business advisory role, the individual earns a $50,000 annual salary and pays $700 in weekly rent, split among three people. They stated that buying a home in New Zealand would be a “very, very difficult journey” on a single income, particularly as competition for housing is expected to increase throughout the 2030s. This economic pressure is a significant factor in their political leanings; despite previously voting for Labour in 2020, they described themselves as a swing voter who will not support the left bloc in the upcoming general election.
How youth perspectives on national infrastructure are shifting
Beyond personal finances, the interviewee identified infrastructure as a critical issue, citing projects like Auckland’s City Rail Link and water infrastructure problems in Wellington and Christchurch. They expressed frustration with how budgets often underestimate these costs. The individual also highlighted a desire for better rail connectivity between the North and South Islands, pointing to Japan’s bullet trains as a model for improved domestic travel. They suggested that if New Zealand’s internal connectivity were stronger, the population would be less concentrated in Auckland.
What happens next for the swing voter
The individual is currently weighing their vote between the National, New Zealand First, and ACT parties. They noted that Prime Minister Christopher Luxon would be their choice over Labour leader Chris Hipkins, citing dissatisfaction with Hipkins’ previous tenure as Education Minister as a primary barrier to choosing Labour. However, the voter emphasized that this is not a permanent political alignment. As for their personal future, a move to Australia remains a “possible pathway” within the next few years. This reflects a broader trend, with nearly 120,000 people departing New Zealand in 2025, according to data cited in the series.
Views on social and environmental policy
The respondent addressed several national debates, including the role of Te Reo Māori and environmental policy. They expressed that while they support honoring the Treaty of Waitangi, they feel current public use of Te Reo Māori can feel “fake” without deeper cultural engagement. Regarding climate change, they acknowledged the importance of environmental issues but argued that the current economic climate forces a focus on the cost of living over green policies. They suggested that the government should attempt to balance both priorities simultaneously to ensure future generations can benefit.
