Police open inquiry into Harry Mowbray's voting strategy site
The investigation follows a complaint by National Party and previous regulatory concerns regarding the legality of the online campaign.
By Yuna Patel ·
Police are investigating the Split Your Vote website operated by businessman Harry Mowbray. Detective Senior Sergeant Andrew Compton confirmed the inquiry began after a referral from the Electoral Commission.
The website urged National Party supporters to cast their party vote for either Act or New Zealand First. The strategy aimed to create an overhang, which could increase the likelihood of coalition parties forming the next government.
Mowbray, whose children Mat, Nick, and Anna founded the toy company Zuru, previously removed the site after the Electoral Commission raised issues about electoral advertising laws. He relaunched the platform on Monday, telling The New Zealand Herald that adjustments were made to ensure compliance with the law.
The National Party formally complained to the Electoral Commission late Friday afternoon regarding the website's presence. Prior to the police inquiry becoming public, the party had already pushed back against the campaign.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon addressed the matter Tuesday morning in Marlborough. He declined to offer a detailed assessment of the investigation.
Luxon stated he had previously discussed the strategic voting campaign. He added that because the matter was now before the police, he would leave further comment for now.
Source: The Star
