3 New Zealand political leaders say they’ve reached agreement to form next government

By NICK PERRY
Associated Press

WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) — Three New Zealand political leaders say they’ve reached an agreement to form the next government, pending a final signoff from their parties which they expected within hours. The party leaders said they expected to hold a formal signing ceremony at Parliament on Friday. The announcement brought to an end nearly six weeks of negotiations since New Zealand held its general election on Oct. 14. What has never been in question is that Christopher Luxon will be the next prime minister, after his conservative National Party won 38% of the vote. What has been at play is what policies the three parties can agree upon to form a coalition.