Greens need to get politically real. I can see that rather than be always in the shadow of Labour. Gareth Morgan thinks similarly (from the Guardian):

Gareth Morgan, founder of the Opportunities party (TOP) is speaking to supporters. With the party currently sitting on 2.1%, it is not expected to take a seat in the new parliament.

He says TOP has been fighting to make New Zealand a fairer society, but many voters are reluctant to address issues that could help the crisis in housing affordability.

You need to be really proud, he tells supporters, saying they have put their own vested interests aside to try to help battle inequality.

And he says the Green party – traditionally backers of Labour administrations – should work with a government of any hue to push an environmental agenda:

I know it’s early days yet but I notice that the Green party is above 5% … so we’re going to lay down a challenge to the Green party … to say to National that we will work with you on the environment.

Are you actually green? You’re only green part-time and that’s not good enough for New Zealand.

National looking in a strong position as per TV3 and UK media:

Today is the official day of the New Zealand’s elections. Voting has been possible for the last 2 weeks or so but today is the final day and the day of the count.

It is surprising how other parts of the world pay attention to this place at “the arse end of the world” of 4.5million people.

The UK at least is watching with a live blog set up to follow the results as they come in.

Even the Telegraph gives some space:

Even the French have seen the Jacinda effect:

 

Time to go to the booths and fulfil my duty as a citizen.