Electoral drama to climax this afternoon, on Peters’ terms

A109 Light Utility Helicopter flight with mayor Gisborne City from the air in November 2023.

Opinion

New Zealanders have had a few lessons in the multiple permutations of post-election scenarios in a mixed-member proportional voting environment in recent weeks.

To many conservative voters, who were already much more inclined to dislike the MMP electoral system, the fact a party attractive to just 7.2 percent of the population could put “losing” parties of the left into government is appalling.

To those on the left, Bill English’s claim on election night of having the “moral authority” — as the highest-polling party — to have first go at creating a coalition with New Zealand First was another sign of National’s arrogance after three terms in government.

The September 23 election delivered a stunning result for English and National, but not a majority. And it removed its natural and former coalition allies from contention.

The fact is NZ First and its leader Winston Peters have every right to consider enabling governments of both the left and right, as they are in a position to form a majority with either side. This is what being a kingmaker is all about, and Peters has shown how to wield that to maximum advantage.

His major misstep was to put a tight deadline on an announcement following negotiations. Having to renege on that has damaged his credibility at a key moment in his long career, and given those who dislike MMP further reason to decry the “uncertainty” it can deliver.

It hasn’t affected his negotiating position, though.

It is intriguing that Peters was able to say late yesterday afternoon that NZ First had still not made its decision, but that it would do so this morning and announce what it is this afternoon — possibly with that announcement being news to the National and Labour leaders as well.

It makes for high theatre, and should ensure the decision is not leaked in any way before Peters gets to announce our government for the next three years — pending its approval by the winning suitor/s.