Story perspectives

Luxon Cuts Free Final-Year Study, Boosts Trades, 88% Term Odds

5/11/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced ending the fees-free final-year tertiary study program and redirecting savings to trades training and Youth Guarantee.
A Motu Research poll gave the National coalition an 88.3% chance of a term, with support at 50.2% versus 44.9% for the opposition.
Luxon, noting that National received $6.3 million, Labour $2.4 million and Act Party $2.45 million in 2025 donations, accused Labour and New Zealand First of lacking political will and dishonesty.

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Story summary

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced ending the fees-free final-year tertiary study program and redirecting savings to trades training and Youth Guarantee.
A Motu Research poll gave the National coalition an 88.3% chance of a term, with support at 50.2% versus 44.9% for the opposition.
Luxon, noting that National received $6.3 million, Labour $2.4 million and Act Party $2.45 million in 2025 donations, accused Labour and New Zealand First of lacking political will and dishonesty.