Leaders cast votes, turnout appears strong

PM Helen Clark exercises her democratic right to vote in Auckland this morning. Phil Walker / Getty Images

The Prime Minister has already cast her vote at Mt Albert in Auckland.

Helen Clark says she is prepared for a busy day after getting a full eight hour sleep last night.

She says she is feeling "very optimistic".

National leader Don Brash has cast his vote at a school in Kohimarama .

He arrived at the polling booth with his wife Je Lan by his side. Dr Brash said he expects to do "a lot of nail-biting" today.

Nearly three million people are eligible to vote today in a general election most pundits say is too close to call.

Analysts say up to one in five New Zealanders is still undecided.

The booths are open until 7 o'clock this evening and with polls suggesting it is going to go down to the wire, the turnout is expected to be strong.

There are presently queues being reported at many polling places.

- NEWSTALK ZB