Election 2026: Coalition’s change to voting rules is radical but Labour helped make it possible – Bryce Edwards

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Opinion

Opinion by

Bryce Edwards

NZ Herald·

27 Oct, 2026 04:00 PM5 mins to read

Dr Bryce Edwards is a lecturer in political studies at the University of Otago. He is the director of the Democracy Project which scrutinises vested interests in politics.

National Party leader Christopher Luxon (right) and wife Amanda Luxon vote in the general election at the Beachlands Charter Club, Auckland. Photo / Michael Craig

Accusations of “voter suppression” have grown louder since electoral enrolments closed on Sunday – 13 days before polling day. Labour and the Green Party say the Government has made it harder to vote. Ministers insist New Zealanders have had plenty of time to get organised. The politicians competing for our