New Zealand’s parliamentary election ended with Prime Minister Chris Luxon’s National Party and the opposition Labour Party, led by Chris Hipkins, each polling at about 30% with more than 80% of the votes counted. Both leaders said the result was too close to call, and cooperation between the two largest parties was ruled out, meaning one of them will need to form a coalition with smaller parties.

The relatively new Opportunity Party, led by Qiulae Wong, passed the 5% threshold for parliamentary representation for the first time and is expected to play a role in coalition talks. The final seat distribution is due to be announced later in November, and it may take several weeks before it is clear who can form a government. The reported result was historically weak for both National and Labour, amid voter concerns about the cost of living, unemployment, the economy and housing.