Labour has released its 2026 manifesto, What Better Means for New Zealand, putting the cost of living first, and laying out Labour's plan for a better future.

“This election is about the cost of living. Christopher Luxon promised to fix it. He hasn’t,” Labour Leader Chris Hipkins said.

“People are working hard and still going backwards. Everything costs more. Food and fuel prices are soaring, power bills are up nearly 30 percent, and GP fees are up 21 percent. New Zealand can’t afford three more years of National.

“Getting the cost of living under control will be my number one priority as your next Prime Minister, so that New Zealanders can have a better future right here.

“Better means lower bills. That’s a $20 cap on weekly public transport fares, a three-year freeze on fuel tax, fairer prices at the checkout and an end to price gouging. It means more money left for you and your family at the end of the week.

“Better means healthcare you can afford, with three free GP visits a year, free prescriptions, and hospitals that are there when you need them. We'll get to work on day one to fix the healthcare crisis created by this Government.

“Better means more good jobs. We’ll get local tradies back to work fixing schools and hospitals, back nearly 30,000 apprentices and guarantee jobs for graduate nurses.

“Better means growing the economy from the grassroots up, by backing local businesses and investing in Kiwi ideas.

“Better means a fair go. We’ll crack down on rip-offs like hidden fees and subscription traps.

“And better means building a future here, so our kids can choose to stay and build a good life in the country they love.

“Every commitment in our plan is costed and funded. We’ll work within the same Budget allowances as National, but make different choices about what matters most to families.

“The choice is clear. Three more years of National means more cuts, more chaos and higher prices. A vote for Labour means backing Kiwis to get ahead.

“Better starts now. On 7 November, give both your votes to Labour,” Chris Hipkins said.

Read Labour's 2026 manifesto, What Better Means for New Zealand, here