The 2023 New Zealand coalition government: a mandate for change?

Mandate theories of responsible party government require that parties are programmatic, with elections determining policy direction. In contrast, elitist theories argue that the ability to vote out poorly performing parties is the main means of democratic control. Content analysis of policy documents shows clear differences between parties at New Zealand’s 2023 general election, while voters believed the parties offered different policy directions. Concern over the state of the economy was also high, with the opposition National Party usually being seen by voters as most capable. The post-election National-Act-New Zealand First coalition therefore had a mandate from voters to increase economic growth and reduce inflation. However, voters also wanted higher health and education spending, and were often sceptical about tax cuts. Furthermore, New Zealand First voters were more centrist on economic policy than Act and National voters. Coalition voters were more united on reducing the emphasis given to indigenous rights, prioritising growth over the environment, and implementing tougher law and order policies. The coalition has therefore had to strive to produce a stronger economy, and also ensure that it does not overstep its mandate.