The two women vying for the nation’s top job at next month’s general election faced off in a sometime fiery televised leaders debate. 

Labour Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and National Party leader Judith Collins traded blows over the country’s Covid-19 response. 

They also locked horns on pressing issues like New Zealand’s ballooning debt, housing, health, poverty and infrastructure, including the need for a second Auckland Habour crossing.

Stuart Nash told Mike Hosking he thought Judith Collins was shouty and yappy, and struggled to show any emotion.

"She was rolling her eyes, which wasn't a good look, and at times she looked like a petulant child.

"Jacinda was very Prime Ministerial, she had all the facts and details."

Mark Mitchell told Mike Hosking that he believes Judith Collins won the debate hands down.

"She was authentic and performed strongly. Judith was very clear and precise, and even showed a bit of emotion as well."

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