PM locks in September date for general election

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has announced the election will be held on September 19.

Yesterday’s announcement was made at the first post-Cabinet press conference of 2020, after she advised the governor-general.

The decision to nominate the election date early follows a precedent set by John Key in 2011 and 2014 and continued in 2017 under Bill English.

Traditionally, knowing when an election will be held is a significant advantage for a sitting Government, as it can plan the year and raise campaign funds accordingly, while keeping the Opposition guessing.

Ardern said she thought announcing early was best practice and gave everyone time to prepare.

‘‘I’ve always believed that announcing elections dates early is fair. It improves the opportunities for New Zealanders to take part in the democratic process and gives a greater degree of certainty to the political landscape.’’

Elections in New Zealand always take place on a Saturday. Every election since 2011 has been held in September.

‘‘I will be asking New Zealanders to continue to support my leadership and the current direction of the Government,’’ Ardern said.

‘‘When it comes to the campaign, I’ve set out Labour’s plan to give New Zealanders an election contest that is positive, factual and robust. Until then, the Government will continue on getting things done.’’

The Government expects that the House will rise on August 6, nominations will close on August 20, and early voting will start on September 7. The last day for return of the ‘‘writ’’ – the official election results – will be October 15.

National leader Simon Bridges said his party was ready to win the election and govern.

‘‘We’re going to be campaigning on more money in people’s pockets as they struggle with the costs and burdens this Government has made worse, on transport and highways to actually get people where they need to go, and on safer families.’’

Green Party co-leader James Shaw welcomed the news of the election date. ‘‘Knowing the date of the election gives New Zealanders plenty of time to think about the future they want for their kids and grandkids.’’ ACT leader David Seymour said his party would campaign to give Kiwis more control over their lives.

The Electoral Commission said the results of the two referendums held at the election – on euthanasia and personal cannabis use – would not be announced until October 2.