Q: How will the result impact on NZ's trade relations with the United States, our hopes to establish a free-trade deal, and on defence links with the US?
A: The effects for us are still unclear.
There is a potential negative in Mr Obama's apparent position on protectionism - he has appeared to be more favourable to trade restrictions than Mr McCain.
We have had in the past year or two a positive momentum on trade, but there is now a cloud on the horizon.
The defence relationship has steadily become more positive.
I assume that we will simply see a continuation of that into the future.
Q: Will the result have any influence on voters in the NZ election?
A: I don't think these things have a big impact on the NZ electorate.
I could see that it might be slightly in favour of Labour because it might be seen to be more similar to the new American administration.
But because of the change aspect, a new direction, that could be read as slightly in favour of National.
Q: Will this result in significant change in US foreign policy?
A: The Europeans have made it plain that they want him.
There is already an improving trend in the transatlantic relationship.
Psychologically, we would expect a very buoyant atmosphere at the beginning of the Obama presidency.
He's said he's going to shift far more towards Afghanistan and away from Iraq.
I would question that because I think that Iraq is, by light years, strategically the more important country.
Q: Does the vote show the US is leaning to the left, or was it a protest against President George W. Bush?
A: I think there's a modest shift in the American electorate towards wanting a new direction.
They've opted for a change in direction without being entirely clear exactly where it's going to take them.
This election has been heavily affected by the financial crisis, which has not got much to do with Mr Bush's previous unpopularity.
The Republicans were carrying the burden of an unpopular administration and Mr McCain was making some headway in getting out from under that burden when the storm hit and that was it.
I think Wall Street did him in.
Mr Obama has also run a very cool and sophisticated campaign . . . that the Republicans haven't been able to match.
Q: How will the result impact on the global financial crisis?
A: The main policy responses, including the US$700 billion bail-out and further support for the banks, have already been set and he has gone with them . . . his drive to project an image of dynamism and composure could also have a calming atmospheric effect.
