Where Has THIS Luxon Been? | Luxon vs Hipkins Debate Reaction Oct 22, 2026

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Christopher Luxon came out firing in the third leaders' debate, delivering a surprisingly dominant performance against Chris Hipkins. Joined by Taxpayers' Union director Jordan Williams and commentator Ani O'Brien, Duncan Garner dissects the key moments from the night, including the latest 1 News-Verium poll showing National at 32%.

We break down the fiery exchanges over health workforce numbers, inflation, classroom building costs, and the controversial $2.7 million government funding given to the Mongrel Mob under Labour. Plus, we discuss whether Hipkins went too far with his aggressive approach, if The Opportunities Party holds the balance of power, and how the recent Green Party gang pad visits are impacting voters.

00:01:00 - Initial Reactions to the Third Leaders' Debate
00:05:20 - Analyzing the First-Time Voters Opening Format
00:09:30 - Poll Results: National at 32%
00:10:40 - Health Debate: Nurse & Doctor Numbers Fact-Check
00:15:20 - Superannuation & Retirement Age Policy Clash
00:17:40 - Gang Pad Visits, Crime Policy & The $2.7M Funding Row
00:28:10 - Could Luxon Work With The Opportunities Party?
00:36:30 - Economic Debate: GDP, Inflation, & Cost of Living
00:42:50 - Education Spending: $1.2M vs $600k Classrooms
00:48:20 - Social Media Bans & Digital Tax Policy
00:55:50 - Voting Cut-Offs & Final Election Predictions

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