WELLINGTON, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- New Zealand's National Party officially launched its campaign on Sunday for the country's Nov. 7 general election, holding an event in Auckland and setting the tone for a six-week campaign.
Incumbent Prime Minister and National leader Christopher Luxon reiterated the campaign slogan "no new taxes," a message also backed by former prime minister John Key in a speech at the event.
Also on Sunday in Auckland, opposition Labor Party leader Chris Hipkins launched his party's campaign at an event attended by former prime minister Helen Clark.
The launches are typically designed to rally party supporters and provide an opportunity for parties to unveil new policies addressing New Zealanders' top five concerns, namely cost of living, healthcare, economy, unemployment and housing, according to the latest Ipsos Issues Monitor, a public opinion survey conducted by market research firm Ipsos. ■