New Zealand’s strained health system becomes a key election issue

Ekonominin Sesi - International (English) · Oct 19, 2026 · 1m

With New Zealand approaching its November election, healthcare ranks as the nation’s second most pressing issue after living costs, according to an Ipsos survey in which 44 percent of respondents cited it as their top concern. Jane Harrison, 60, explains that she and her husband, Shaun Fitzgerald, have faced challenges in receiving prompt medical attention. Fitzgerald, 65, is awaiting another back operation after his August 2025 surgery provided less relief than expected. Harrison notes that he has had to return to the emergency department in significant pain and is now moving with difficulty…