The Labour Party is accusing National's leader Christopher Luxon of chickening out of a debate.
The high-profile Press Debate in Christchurch was set to go ahead tomorrow evening, until Chris Hipkins came down with Covid-19.
Labour, National and the Press have been trying to negotiate a new date or alternative, but look to have reached a stalemate.
Deputy political editor Craig McCulloch pulled together this report on what is the first day of voting.
Stuff's managing director Joanna Norris says National has confirmed Mr Luxon won't be available on an alternative date once Mr Hipkins is out of isolation.
She says it's extremely disappointing to the thousands of people who were looking forward to seeing both leaders in person in the only South Island debate.
