Luxon and Hipkins meet in first TVNZ leaders' debate

National leader Christopher Luxon and Labour leader Chris Hipkins faced off in TVNZ's first 2026 election leaders' debate on October 6. Hosted by Jack Tame, the 90-minute debate aired on TVNZ1, TVNZ+ and 1News.co.nz from 7pm, covering cost of living, health, education, climate and the environment.