2026 – Mood of the Boardroom

Mood of the Boardroom 2026 – Who’s fit to govern?

New Zealand’s business leaders have rediscovered their optimism about the domestic economy, but a looming general election, geopolitical uncertainty and rising fuel costs are weighing on confidence.

The New Zealand Herald’s 2026 Mood of the Boardroom report canvasses the views of 150 of the country’s leading chief executives, chairs and business organisation heads. With the election approaching, business leaders assess the performance of Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Labour leader Chris Hipkins, rate Cabinet ministers and weigh in on who is best placed to lead New Zealand through another period of global uncertainty.

The report also explores the major challenges confronting New Zealand businesses, from the fuel crisis and infrastructure constraints to cyber security, productivity, artificial intelligence and the loss of skilled talent offshore. Alongside these concerns, there are signs of renewed confidence and opportunities for investment and growth despite an unsettled international environment.