Race issues emerge in New Zealand's election

Anti co-governance protesters march on New Zealand's parliament in Wellington, New Zealand, September 28, 2023. REUTERS/Lucy Craymer

WELLINGTON (Reuters) - Race and relations with the indigenous Maori population have emerged as issues in New Zealand's election as right-wing parties likely to be pivotal in forming a government face accusations of stoking racial division.

When Jacinda Ardern led her Labour party to a landslide victory in 2020, New Zealand stood out with progressive policies at a time when many countries had elected right-wing governments.