Nicola Willis Declares Candidacy as List-Only Candidate for 2026

Nicola Willis, the deputy leader of the National Party and Finance Minister, has confirmed her candidacy as a List-only candidate for the upcoming 2026 general election in New Zealand. This announcement positions Willis to campaign nationwide with the goal of securing a National Government focused on addressing fundamental issues and fostering future growth.

In her statement, Willis expressed gratitude for the support from the National Party board, noting, “I am honoured to have the support of the National Party board to campaign across New Zealand.” She emphasized the importance of a government that prioritizes the needs of citizens and the economy.

Willis highlighted recent improvements in the New Zealand economy, pointing to a decrease in inflation from a high of 7.3 percent under the previous Labour administration to within the target band of 1 to 3 percent. This reduction has led to nine interest rate cuts, allowing for lower mortgage repayments that ease the financial strain on New Zealand households.

“The economy is growing again, with news of 1.1 percent growth in the third quarter of this year,” she stated, adding that positive economic indicators signal further growth in the final quarter. “Economic growth means more jobs, higher wages, and better opportunities for all New Zealanders,” she affirmed.

Despite these advancements, Willis cautioned against complacency, asserting that Labour’s approach involves increasing taxes, borrowing more, and escalating spending, which she argues would leave citizens worse off. “We cannot take our recovery for granted,” she said.

Willis assured her constituents that with the economy on the mend, record-high exports, and a new planning system being introduced, New Zealand is in capable hands under a National Government. She expressed enthusiasm for collaborating with National leader Christopher Luxon and party members across the country to secure the party vote in the upcoming election.

The date for the 2026 general election is yet to be announced. As the campaign season approaches, Willis’s focus on economic recovery and fiscal responsibility is expected to resonate with voters looking for stability and growth in the post-pandemic landscape.