New Zealand Ardern admits using cannabis on election debate

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and Opposition Leader Judith Collins squared off in their country's second debate on Wednesday, ahead of the general election later this month, with Ardern admitting to having used cannabis "a long time ago."

But Ardern declined to say how she would vote in a forthcoming referendum on whether to legalise the drug for recreational use.

"I'll be giving my answer after the election, after New Zealand has decided," Ardern said.

An audience of about 100 undecided voters listened on as the two leaders debated a variety of issues ahead of polling day on October 17.

Both leaders said they would work with Donald Trump if he's re-elected, with Collins giving the U.S. President credit for the recent breakthrough in diplomatic relations between Israel and the United Arab Emirates.

Ardern's popularity has surged since the coronavirus became the defining issue for her government six months ago.

Her approach of trying to eliminate the virus has been widely viewed as successful.

Collins has promised more robust border controls to ensure the virus is kept out and sweeping tax cuts to help reboot the economy.

Under New Zealand's proportional voting system, larger parties typically form coalitions with smaller parties to govern.

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