PoliticsSepuloni says NZ could see first one-term government as Luxon confirms election dateAs the Prime Minister announced 7 November 2026 as voting day, Labour’s deputy leader says rising public frustration could lead to historic political outcome.'Alakihihifo VailalaWed, 21 Jan
Local Democracy ReportingPapatoetoe by-election: Councillor urges voters to watch for postal risksPapatoetoe voters are urged to check their voting papers ahead of the court-ordered by-election, after last year’s vote was voided due to electoral fraud.Taelegalolo'u Mary AfemataWed, 21 Jan
Pacific Region • TongaTonga’s new Cabinet focuses on climate change, economy, health and governancePrime Minister Lord Fakafanua has unveiled an 11-member executive tasked with tackling the kingdom’s pressing challenges, including disaster management and public service delivery.PMN NewsMon, 05 Jan
PoliticsPapatoetoe election to be re-run after court finds vote irregularitiesA judge has ordered a fresh poll after ruling that irregularities materially affected the result.PMN NewsTue, 16 Dec
Politics • New Caledonia • FrancePro-independence leaders reject further election delay amid ongoing tensionsThe disputed vote in New Caledonia, already postponed twice, has become a flashpoint in the broader fight over Kanak self-determination and France’s colonial legacy.Christine RovoiMon, 20 Oct
PoliticsKeshaan Te Waaka makes history in Tararua local electionsAt just 21 years old, she brings a fresh and determined voice to local government.PMN NewsFri, 17 Oct
Pacific Region • Nauru • ChinaNauru President re-elected amid China controversy and plans for deep sea miningDavid Adeang has been firm on the mutual benefits of the Nauru-China relationship, advocating that deep sea mining can support the Pacific island nation's sustainable development.Christine RovoiWed, 15 Oct
Local Democracy ReportingFormer deputy mayor's re-election highlights Pasifika's rural reachMata’aga Hana Melania Fanene-Taiti shows Pacific leadership thrives beyond the cities as she begins her third term representing Waitaki’s largest ward.Taelegalolo'u Mary AfemataTue, 14 Oct
Local Democracy ReportingIncreased vote count strengthens Pacific representation in Tāmaki MakaurauPreliminary results indicate a strong presence of Pacific leadership across Auckland and highlight how late votes can influence the city’s direction for the next three years.Taelegalolo'u Mary AfemataMon, 13 Oct
Pacific Region • NauruPIF praises Nauru’s 'transparent' elections as voters reject 4-year parliamentary termNauruans have delivered a mixed verdict in this year's general election and national referendum watched closely by Pacific Islands Forum observers.Christine RovoiMon, 13 Oct
