Chris Hipkins challenges Christopher Luxon to debate on health

Labour leader Chris Hipkins has challenged National leader Christopher Luxon to a debate on health.It comes after Luxon denied the healthcare system was in crisis, even as a number of professionals sound the alarm about the state of the sector.In a video on social media, Hipkins spoke directly to the camera, saying: "Christopher Luxon doesn't want to talk about it, but everyone else does.""So today, I'm challenging Christopher Luxon: come and debate me on health."Hipkins said the health system was "in crisis.""That's one of the major issues we should be debating in this election campaign. Let's hear from the people who are being denied the healthcare they deserve. Let's hear from the medical professionals in our health system who are right at breaking point. Now let's answer their questions."I'm up for it. I challenge Christopher Luxon to join me."He said New Zealanders deserved "straight answers about the state of their health system and what the future holds".RNZ has asked Labour for more information about the debate format, and approached National for comment.