A political scientist says both Collins and Ardern seemed to come alive in last night's debate, compared to last week's debate.

Auckland University's Lara Greaves told Tim Dower both Ardern and Collins had their moments in the debate.

She says they were very evenly matched.

"It kind of did feel they both put more effort in. We are seeing that this election race has turned into a battle."

Greaves says both Collins and Ardern seemed to come alive in last night's debate, compared to last week's debate.

"Ardern brought more energy, which we needed to see. The dynamic in this debate was better as well, the audience helped. 

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