Labour Party leader, Chris Hipkins, in a public address, admitted the party’s major losses in the 2023 election and congratulated National’s Christopher Luxon on a likely victory. With 85.1% of the votes accounted for, Labour trailed significantly with only 26.5% of the total votes, translating to a projected 34 seats in Parliament.
Making an appearance at the Lower Hutt Town Hall, Hipkins expressed his gratitude towards the supporters, highlighting their tireless efforts throughout the campaign. The Labour leader revealed that he reached out to Luxon to acknowledge National’s strong performance in the polls.
While reflecting on the electoral outcome, Hipkins stated, “Labour is not in a position to form another government.” Nevertheless, he encouraged the party supporters to take pride in the achievements of the past six years, emphasizing that Labour had consistently advanced New Zealand’s interests, even amid numerous challenges.
On a somber note, Hipkins expressed gratitude to the Labour MPs who wouldn’t be returning to the Parliament, lauding their dedicated service to the nation. He also expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the Remutaka electorate for their continued trust in him as their representative MP.
Acknowledging the daunting task of succeeding former Prime Minister Dame Jacinda Ardern, Hipkins mentioned that the road was always going to be uphill. Apart from the usual political challenges, the nation had been hit by natural calamities like flooding and a cyclone, as well as a cost-of-living crisis.
Hipkins proudly recollected the progressive policies Labour proposed during the campaign, which aimed at benefiting all New Zealanders, rather than a select few. With the election results in, he declared that Labour would now adopt a crucial role in opposition, with the intent to monitor the incoming government closely and champion the interests of those who might be adversely affected by potential policy changes.
The emotional weight of the night was evident as a tearful Hipkins exited the stage, sharing poignant moments with fellow Labour ministers, including Grant Robertson.
