New Zealand National Party claimed victory in general elections in the country.
“For the next three years, there will be a national government led by New Zealand”, said the evening, John Key, a rally of supporters in Auckland.
- NZ Ruling Party Victory in Election
The opposition Labour Party saw its vote fall and admitted defeat.
With all results now, the National Party to power on track to win 60 of the 121 seats in parliament, official figures show.
“People have made their decision, and we discuss their decision with humility and respect,” says Labour leader Phil Goff.
National Party looks set to continue the ECB via the ACT and United Future parties, who have both won one seat each.
“We will work on formal agreements with these parties in the coming days, but I can confirm this – their willingness to be part of a strong, stable national government-led,” said Mr. Key, according to news agency Reuters.
Mr. Key is also said to be planning discussions with the Maori Party, which won three seats.
The Maori Party, however, expressed his opposition to the plans of Mr. Key selling state assets.
Meanwhile, the Green Party had its best performance to date in a general election, with the support of nearly 11%.
The populist New Zealand First Party has surprised many observers, the return to Parliament with 7% of the vote.
The economy dominated the election campaign, Mr Key promising to tackle the national debt by selling shares in state enterprises.
But public attention focused more on the line above the registration of a private conversation between Mr Key and his colleague, after a media event. The content of the recording was not released.
Observers say that the voters have warmed Mr. Key for his handling of both Christchurch earthquakes, and deadly explosion was the Pike River mine in November 2010.
All Blacks win the Rugby World Cup has also played in his favor, analysts say.
New Zealanders also vote on maintaining proportional representation for elections in the country.
Initial results indicate a majority of voters chose not to change the system.
