1Also Running A focus on the minor political parties in the 1984 election campaign: Social Credit and the New Zealand Party. Both are unknown quantities and are fighting for their political survival. However, such are the uncertainties at this election that their fortunes could decide who governs New Zealand for the next three years. Two other parties are also vying for votes: The Values Party and Mana Motuhake. Values had its heyday in the mid-1970s but believes its message remains relevant. Mana Motuhake is hoping to galvanise the disenchanted elements of Maoridom.

2Tauranga Toss Up With a majority of more than 2000 at the 1981 election, Tauranga would normally be considered a safe National seat. However, a series of developments since then have left the pundits considering Tauranga to be a marginal seat, and are not ruling outside a shock election result. Profile of the Tauranga electorate, a seat that is especially hard for the experts to read.