New Zealand’s Ardern Postpones Elections Until Oct. 17

The transcript discusses New Zealand's decision to hold elections on October 17th amidst the Auckland lockdown. The Prime Minister is firm on the date, but the Electoral Commission has some flexibility. Economic measures, including fiscal updates and Reserve Bank policies, are examined. The economy shows resilience, aided by government support like wage subsidies, but concerns remain about future impacts.

Why was October 17th chosen as the election date in New Zealand?

• It was the date when the lockdown was expected to end.

• It was the only available date.

• It was the Prime Minister's birthday.

• It provided some certainty and breathing time for voters.

What flexibility does the Electoral Commission have regarding the election date?

• They can cancel the election entirely.

• They can change the date if they feel a safe election cannot be conducted.

• They have no flexibility and must follow the Prime Minister's decision.

• They can only postpone the election by a week.

What was the state of the COVID-19 outbreak in Auckland at the time of the decision?

• There were no cases reported.

• It was completely under control.

• The outbreak was worsening rapidly.

• The cluster was at 49 cases and considered under control.

What was the Reserve Bank of New Zealand's response to the economic situation?

• They decided to cut interest rates immediately.

• They did nothing and waited for the election results.

• They increased the scale of their quantitative easing program.

• They introduced a new currency.

How did the New Zealand government support businesses during the Auckland lockdown?

• By extending the wage subsidy for the lockdown period.

• By providing free loans to all businesses.

• By reducing taxes for the entire year.

• By offering free advertising on national television.