New Zealand election has ended in a stalemate. The country’s ruling National Party had won Saturday’s parliamentary elections but fell just short of a majority.
With all the votes counted, Prime Minister Bill English’s party secured 58 seats in the 121-strong chamber.
The opposition Labour Party led by Jacinda Ardern took 45 seats. With parliament hung, the two main political rivals are making overtures to the nationalist New Zealand First party (nine seats), which is now in a position to play kingmaker.
Major campaign issues were the economy, infrastructure, healthcare and housing.
Ms Ardern targeted young New Zealanders with policies on education subsidies, housing and the environment.
Mr English promised voters experienced and reliable economic management.
He became prime minister in 2016 when his predecessor John Key unexpectedly resigned.