So far, the two leaders are running a near repeat of the campaigning styles from the 2023 election.
Luxon, something of an extrovert, is throwing himself at public meetings and walkabouts with mostly positive results, much like he did in 2023.
Hipkins, somewhat more introverted and less inclined to draw enormous crowds in walkabouts, is a far more reliable debate performer and goes into the debates expected to perform better than Luxon.
Hipkins, who has nearly a decade’s experience as an MP more than Luxon, is a more experienced and comfortable debater.
Despite trailing National in the polls in 2023, Hipkins was widely seen to have performed well in last election’s debates. If he can repeat that performance this election, it may help Labour establish a more solid lead over National.
The stakes are particularly high for this debate, hosted by TVNZ, which tends to enjoy higher ratings than other debates.
Unlike previous elections, tonight’s debate will be the only debate TVNZ will host, making tonight’s debate do or die for both leaders.
The Herald will have extensive coverage of the leaders’ debate beginning at 6pm.